If you’re looking to expand your growing space, a small greenhouse is an excellent solution. It’s also a great way to start growing vegetables and flowers that may be too delicate to grow outdoors.
In addition to providing the perfect place for plants, a greenhouse can also keep pests away. With these small greenhouse tips, you’ll be able to enjoy healthy and productive crops without any issues!
1. Keep It Clean
It may seem a bit boring to clean your greenhouse, but it is one of the most important things you can do for your plants. It helps prevent pests and disease, and it also lets more sunlight in to maximize your crops.
The first thing to do is get rid of all plant remains and moss. This includes removing soils from pots, beds, and paths that have been in use for more than a year.
Next, scrub the walls and floors with warm soapy water and disinfectant. You can use a scrub brush or an old toothbrush for smaller nooks and crannies.
2. Add Shelving
Shelving is a great way to add extra storage to your small greenhouse. It can be used to store watering cans, potting soil, and pots.
It can also be used to organize tools and accessories. Shelving is a great way to keep your greenhouse organized and easy to navigate.
When deciding what shelving to use, take into account the plants you’re growing. The right shelving can be used to provide the ideal growing area for each plant and ensure that they are not crowded.
Shelving should be tall enough to give plants plenty of room to grow. It should also be placed in a location that receives sunlight.
3. Add Insulation
Adding insulation to your small greenhouse will help save on heating costs and keep the plants in your greenhouse safe from frosts. It also allows for a warmer temperature inside which helps the plants to thrive all year round.
Insulating your greenhouse can be as simple as covering the windows and vents with horticultural grade bubble wrap. This is easy and inexpensive and only takes an hour to do!
Another great way to insulate your greenhouse is to line the bottom two feet of your base with thick cardboard and then stuff it with straw. This is a cheap and easy way to insulate your greenhouse and can save you money on heating costs!
4. Add Lights
One of the best things about having a greenhouse is that you can tinker with your own temperature and humidity levels. For most people, a little tweaking will go a long way in keeping your prized possessions healthy and happy. However, that said, it’s a good idea to have a plan in place before you start your green thumb quest. First, decide which plants you are going to grow and how much space you have available. Then, pick a location that receives at least an hour of sun a day. Lastly, choose an LED light that will withstand the elements. This will be a challenge, but if you are willing to put in the effort it can be rewarding in the end. You should also do a bit of research to figure out what type of plant you are growing and what it needs in order to maximize the potential of your little green house.
5. Add Vents
Ventilation is a vital step in keeping your small greenhouse healthy and productive. Without ventilation, your plants will start to wilt, stop growing or die.
The correct sizing of your fan system is crucial for ensuring air exchange. For summer ventilation a capacity of one volume air change per minute is sufficient and for winter ventilation a capacity of 1/4 volume air change per minute is adequate.
Horizontal air flow fans (HAF) are an inexpensive addition to your greenhouse, helping you ensure even air distribution. Installing them parallel to your crop rows will push air horizontally and evenly through the greenhouse, allowing more air to get inside your plants.