By: Bill Rowe
Friday, 9:37 pm
Growing plants in a greenhouse is not only fun, it is also extremely satisfying. A greenhouse opens up many possibilities for growing numerous varieties of plants that you would other wise not be able to grow…
…growing orchids in a cold climate for instance.
You can use your greenhouse in many ways such as for starting plants for later transplanting outdoors or to raise flowers indoors or raise produce indoors.
Basic Requirements for Growing Plants in a Greenhouse
There are a few essentials you will need to get your greenhouse started; the greenhouse, greenhouse fans, soil boxes or beds, soil, seeds or seedlings, fertilizer and gardening hand tools. If you will be transplanting later, peat pots are recommended for starting your seeds. There are many options that you can add to your greenhouse such as lighting, plastic trays, earth boxes, shade cloth, heaters, insulation and plant supports.
What Plants can you Grow in a Greenhouse?
Once you have assembled everything you need to physically ready the greenhouse, the next step is to choose what you are going to grow. Let’s say you are planning an all garden produce greenhouse planting. Be aware that since greenhouses are an enclosed environment, that pollinating insects such as bees, have extremely limited access to the plants. Plants that rely on wind pollination likewise do not do well in greenhouse environments. Therefore it is advisable to focus your energies on raising self pollinating veggies like lettuce, peas, beans, tomatoes, radishes, pepper and eggplant.
Are Plants in a Greenhouse Better Off in the Ground or in Pots?
Once you have figured out what you will be planting, you need to decide where to plant; are you going to use containers or plant directly into the ground. If your greenhouse is large and you live in a climate that does not have terribly cold winters, then direct ground planting is simple and inexpensive. But, if you have cold winters container or planter box planting is suggested since early in the season the ground may be too cold to allow plant growth. You can prepare the containers or planting beds any time so they will be ready for planting when you are. Be sure to supplement the soil with commercial fertilizer; follow the package directions for best results.
Should you buy Seeds or Starter Plants?
Now that you know what you are going to plant and where you are going to plant it, purchase your seeds and/or seedlings. If you will be transplanting later and have adequate time, seeds are the most cost effective method for starting plants. If you are short of time but want to jump start seedlings in your greenhouse, go to a garden center and purchase healthy flats of plants and nurture them in the greenhouse until time to set them out.
Lots of TLC is the Secret to Growing Healthy Plants in a Greenhouse!
When you have the seeds and seedlings accumulated you are finally ready to plant. Since you already have the beds or containers prepared you will be able to plant your seeds and transplant the seedlings in no time at all. Apply water, apply patience and before long you will be watching your greenhouse turn green.
Remember to control the environment with fans in the summer and heaters in the winter. With proper greenhouse management and care you can enjoy garden produce year round.