If we haven’t experienced it yet, we soon will be seeing frost on the Pumpkin! Well, so much for another season of gardening, or is it? We’ve seen quite a transformation regarding the needs of our clientele on both ends of the planting spectrum. The reason? Hobby or home greenhouses, you guys want more garden time! Gardening enthusiasts are taking advantage of having plant shelters that extend the joys of gardening. We’re getting more and more demand for tender plants, especially in the early spring, so people can get that jump on Mother Nature. The largest growth in popularity we’ve seen over the last 15 years is the deluxe annual varieties. They showed up in our mixed baskets and planters. Every year we’ve tried to bring in something different, and every year something else takes off. It makes gardening that much more interesting when we can enjoy a plant that would otherwise not flourish in our planting zone. As we approach winter our spring annuals still look good. The dedicated enthusiast will begin to take measures to try and winter over the more exotic varieties, especially the larger pot sized or container plants.
We thought we would review some winterizing tips for your home greenhouse. It starts with emptying your greenhouse of plants, furniture, and pots. Once everything is removed you can disconnect your power source to prepare for cleaning. Sweep or blow out any debris. Get out any of that expired plant material that may be attracting disease or insects. Now that it is empty and clean look over your structure. It’s a good time to inspect the walls and windows. Repair windows, replace weather stripping, or caulk anywhere you are losing heat. If you have holes in the plastic now would be the time to make repairs. Once everything has been tightened up you can clean the sides inside and out with water to remove dust. If it’s really dirty, soapy water will help with the more stubborn stains. Next the floors can be cleansed with antibacterial soap or a sterilizing solution of choice. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with clean water. To promote drying open up your greenhouse and let the fall breeze do its work. Once dry, reapply the power source to make sure heating and accessories are functioning. As you put things back check your plants for dead spots and insects. These small maintenance steps will allow you to enjoy your winter garden experience.
