Greenhouses 101: A Beginner’s Guide to GIY (Grow-It-Yourself)
If you’re passionate about gardening and dream of growing fresh vegetables, fruits, and flowers all year long, a greenhouse might be your best solution. Whether you’re looking to extend your growing season, protect plants from Ireland’s unpredictable weather, or simply want to experiment with new plants, a greenhouse is a great investment. In this blog, we’ll break down the basics of greenhouses and show you how to get started.
Why Choose a Greenhouse for Year-Round Gardening?
The main advantage of using a greenhouse is the ability to grow plants throughout the year, even in the harshest of winters. In a greenhouse, you can extend your growing season, starting early in the spring and growing later into the autumn or even winter. By controlling the temperature, humidity, and light levels, you can mimic the ideal growing conditions for different plants, no matter what the weather is like outside.
Types of Greenhouses
Before you dive into gardening, it’s important to choose the right type of greenhouse. There are several options to consider, each with their own benefits depending on your space, budget, and gardening goals.
| Type of Structure | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|
| Greenhouse | A traditional, freestanding structure for all-around use. Ideal for a wide range of plants. | – Flexible size and design options. – Can accommodate a wide variety of plants. | – Requires a lot of space. – May need additional heating in winter. |
| Glasshouse | A type of greenhouse traditionally made with glass panels. Popular for its aesthetic appeal. | – Long-lasting and visually appealing. – Good light transmission. | – Can be expensive to build and maintain. – More fragile compared to polycarbonate. |
| Polytunnel | A tunnel-like greenhouse covered with a plastic film, commonly used for growing vegetables and fruits. | – Less expensive than traditional greenhouses. – Great for extending the growing season. | – Less durable than glasshouses. – Can get very hot in summer if not properly ventilated. |
| Cold Frame | A smaller, lower structure, often used to protect plants from cold temperatures or to start seedlings. | – Budget-friendly. – Perfect for early plant growth or protecting hardy crops in winter. | – Limited space. – Not suitable for larger plants or long-term growing. |
Heptagon Greenhouses
These timber frame greenhouses are a sustainable, all-weather solution with 30+ sizes, low maintenance, and durability. You can easily add shelves and other features to accommodate your gardening needs.
3-Tier Mini Greenhouse
It provides a warm environment for seeds, seedlings and cuttings to thrive in. The compact stacked design makes it ideal for decks, patios and small gardens.
Polytunnel Greenhouse with Steel Frame
Large growing house with 6 windows and 1 door. Very spacious, allowing you to plant a wide variety of vegetables and flowers. Ideal for extending the growing season at both ends of the year.
Setting Up Your Greenhouse
Once you’ve selected your greenhouse, setting it up correctly is essential. Here are a few tips for getting started:
- Location
Choose a spot that receives plenty of sunlight throughout the day. Ideally, the greenhouse should face south or southeast to get maximum light exposure, especially during the colder months when sunlight is limited. - Temperature Control
Greenhouses can get hot in the summer, so it’s crucial to have proper ventilation. Look for greenhouses with windows or vents that can open and close. In winter, consider using space heaters, heat mats, or even solar-powered heating to maintain a consistent temperature. - Watering System
A good watering system is key to maintaining your plants’ health. Many gardeners choose automatic irrigation systems or drip systems to ensure consistent watering without over-saturating the soil. - Soil and Fertilisation
The soil in your greenhouse needs to be well-draining and rich in nutrients. Consider using raised beds or containers to prevent root rot. Regularly fertilise your plants with organic or slow-release fertilizers to keep them nourished throughout the year.
Choosing Plants for Year-Round Growing
The beauty of greenhouses is that you can grow almost anything year-round. Here are a few plants that are perfect for greenhouse gardening in different seasons:
- Winter: Kale, spinach, lettuce, radishes, and herbs like parsley and thyme can be grown in winter with the help of a greenhouse’s controlled environment.
- Spring/Summer: Tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and strawberries thrive in a greenhouse during warmer months.
- Autumn: Carrots, beets, and root vegetables can continue growing well into autumn in a greenhouse.
By selecting the right combination of crops, you can enjoy a fresh harvest all year long. Explore our range of plants, seeds and bulbs here.
Tips to Keep Your Plants Healthy in a Greenhouse
- Monitor Humidity
Humidity can fluctuate inside a greenhouse, especially during wet weather or the winter months. Too much moisture can lead to mould or mildew. Regularly check the humidity levels and adjust ventilation as needed. - Regular Maintenance
Inspect your greenhouse for any signs of damage, particularly after strong winds or storms. Check the frame, covers, and windows to ensure everything is secure. Clean the surfaces regularly to keep pests and diseases at bay. - Pest Control
Keep a watchful eye for pests such as aphids or whiteflies, which can easily infest plants in a greenhouse. Consider using natural pest control methods like introducing beneficial insects or using organic sprays. - Proper Air Circulation
Good airflow is essential to prevent overheating and to reduce humidity. Make sure to use ventilation windows or fans to ensure your greenhouse gets enough air circulation.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your greenhouse today, and take your gardening to the next level! For more information you can visit your local Tirlán CountryLife Garden Centre or shop online here.
