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Using Your Greenhouse in Autumn
Protecting Plants from Frost and Cold
During autumn and winter, a greenhouse can be a lifesaver for your plants. It provides protection from frost and cold temperatures, allowing you to keep tender plants alive and grow hardy crops all season long.
Maintaining Optimal Conditions
To keep your plants thriving in the greenhouse, it’s important to maintain optimal conditions:
- Temperature: An unheated greenhouse can keep temperatures 5 degrees Celsius warmer than outside, protecting plants from frost.
- Moisture: Keep plants dry to prevent freezing.
- Light: Remove shading and clean the glass to maximize natural light.
Ideal Plants for Autumn and Winter
Many plants thrive in a cold greenhouse during autumn and winter, including:
- Winter salads: Hardy lettuces, rocket, pak choi, mizuna, lamb’s lettuce, spinach
- Hardy herbs: Chives, parsley, mint
- Tender perennials: Fuchsias, marguerites, pelargoniums
- Rhubarb: Force rhubarb in late December for early harvests
- Peaches and nectarines: Protect trees from disease in a greenhouse
- Alpines: Shelter plants from wet weather
- Spring bulbs: Plant tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in autumn for early blooms
Tips for Success
- Water plants sparingly in winter to avoid overwatering.
- Ventilate the greenhouse regularly to prevent moisture buildup.
- Check plants regularly for pests and diseases.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your greenhouse in autumn and winter, protecting your plants and enjoying fresh produce all season long.
