Ever wondered how to keep your greenhouse thriving all year long?
You're in for a treat! We've crafted the ultimate guide to help you transform your greenhouse into a year-round veggie paradise.
We've got you covered from cozy winter harvests to bountiful summer yields. Ready to embark on a 365-day growing adventure?
Let's dig in!
Spring: Awakening Your Greenhouse
As the days grow longer and the sun peeks through those April showers, it's time to kickstart your greenhouse growing season.
Spring is all about new beginnings and setting the stage for a productive year.
What to Plant:
Pro Tip: "I currently still have a few peppers and cucumbers growing in the GH," shares one of our Vancouver Island gardeners.
Take a cue from this Zone 8 grower and start those warm-season crops early!
Summer: Peak Production Time
Summer is when your greenhouse shines. With long days and plenty of sunshine, it's time to maximize your growing potential.
What to Plant:
- Continue with spring crops
- Melons
- Onion
- Squash
- Okra
- Heat-loving herbs (Thai basil, lemongrass)
Monitor ventilation during hot days. Your plants will thank you for maintaining the perfect balance of warmth and airflow.
Fall: Transitioning to Cooler Days
As the leaves start to turn and the air becomes crisp, it's time to shift gears in your greenhouse.
What to Plant:
- Leafy greens (lettuce, spinach, kale)
- Root vegetables (carrots, beets, radishes)
- Brassicas (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage)
One Zone 6b/7a gardener shares their fall strategy: "I am doing kale, spinach, arugula, and cold hardy lettuce. As it gets colder, I will cover it as needed with either plastic or fabric over hoops."
Winter: Cozy Greenhouse Growing
Just because there's frost on the ground doesn't mean your greenhouse can't be a hive of activity!
What to Plant:
- Cold-hardy greens
- Microgreens
- Winter herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
"I have lined the north wall with space blankets and have a couple grow lights going," says one Vancouver Island gardener. "This is an experiment to see how long I can extend the season."
Year-Round Growing Tips
Now, let’s dive into the best year-round growing tips that will keep your greenhouse productive.
Insulation is Key
"I insulate the GH with bubble wrap on the inside," shares our Zone 6b/7a grower. This simple trick can make a world of difference in maintaining temperature.
Another gardener from BC's Gulf Islands (Zone 9a) is preparing for their first winter: "I'll try and get some cold protection ready to go. Hoops, row cover, bubble wrap."
Don't be afraid to try different methods!
Diversify Your Crops
Mix it up! "Try Chinese greens, spinach, and arugula," says one grower.
Variety keeps things interesting and helps you discover what grows best in your unique greenhouse environment.
Keep a close eye on your plants and be ready to adapt. One gardener noted, "My lettuce already bolted since it got too hot, I think." Learning from these experiences will make you a better greenhouse gardener.
Extend Your Seasons
With a greenhouse, you can push the boundaries of traditional growing seasons.
Many of our gardeners are successfully growing "off-season" crops, giving them fresh produce year-round.
Even in winter, pests can be an issue. One gardener ruefully shared, "I would still have peppers, but a rat got in and ate all of them!" Stay vigilant and protect your precious plants.
Try Overwintering
"I have a Meyer lemon in a pot, and I will also try to overwinter some geraniums," says a Zone 9a gardener.
Greenhouses are perfect for keeping tender perennials alive through cold months.
Start With Perennial Growing in Your Greenhouse
Remember, every greenhouse is unique, and what works in one climate might need tweaking in another.
Don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. As you gain experience, you'll discover the joy of harvesting fresh vegetables from your greenhouse even when snow blankets the ground outside.
Ready to create the ultimate year-round growing haven? Shop our DIY greenhouse kits and start a beautiful perennial garden!
Why Nova Greenhouses?
- We handpick high-quality greenhouses from the best brands in the world.
- Our team works hard to find extraordinary backyard greenhouses at reasonable price points.
- We exclusively source premium products made from the finest materials.
- Our team tests every greenhouse to guarantee strength & durability.
- We have a vast shipping network that reaches every corner of Canada & the USA.
- Our top-rated customer care team is available 7-days a week to answer any questions.