HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR GREENHOUSE

Are you an avid gardener who experiments with a variety of blooms all year round? A greenhouse is the perfect accessory for your garden.

Are you an avid gardener who experiments with a variety of blooms all year round? A greenhouse is the perfect accessory for your garden.

Many plants have a limited growing season, which can be extended with the help of a greenhouse, allowing you the opportunity to grow plants that may not normally flourish in the cold British weather. We’ve put together some of the ways you can make the most of your greenhouse, along with the top plants to grow in them.

CONTROLLED TEMPERATURE

Plants that are outdoors and thus are subject to extreme cold and heat in an average day will not grow well. A greenhouse allows an enclosed, indoor space that can include controlled temperature, heaters and air ventilation, ideal for a large variety of plants and crops. Realistically, any plant can be grown within a greenhouse if their temperature preferences are followed.

HUMIDITY

Many plants rely on moisture from their roots and the surrounding atmosphere to grow to their full potential. Outdoor plants have to rely solely on the moisture from the soil, which can often be dry if it hasn’t rained in a while. Your plants can experience stunted growth and reduced pest resistance if they are kept in dry conditions. Greenhouses that feature humidity controls are able to keep the air moist for plants to grow and thrive to the best of their abilities.

LESS PESTS

Whilst it’s difficult to rule out pests completely, plants grown in greenhouses are potted with specifically chosen soil. Unlike outdoor garden soil, the soil in your greenhouse will not harbour pests and potentially harmful diseases. Without this, plants have the chance to focus their energy on healthy growth rather than repair and defence against harms way.

WHAT PLANTS?

The plants you grow in your greenhouse depends on the type of microclimate you are able to produce. Common greenhouse plants include a variety of vegetables including lettuce, broccoli, peas, cucumber, tomatoes and peppers. Ornamental plants can also thrive in greenhouses, such as geraniums, ferns, caladiums, petunias and more.

For those interested in something a little different, greenhouses can house tropical plants like orchids, Venus flytraps and cacti for example.

If you’re interested in growing beautiful and flourishing plants and vegetables in your greenhouse, we can help. We have a variety of plants available as well as everything you need to grow them and can help you decipher which plants would be ideal for growth in your greenhouse.

For more information, you can get in touch with a member of the Polhill Garden Centre team by visiting our contact page or by giving us a call on 01959 534212.