Your first year in a greenhouse includes preparing your space in spring, managing heat and watering in summer, transitioning your plants for fall, and maintaining warmth and light through winter to keep your plants thriving year-round.
Starting your greenhouse journey can feel overwhelming at first, but understanding the seasonal rhythm will help you plan and care for your plants confidently. This guide breaks down what to expect during each season, with tips to help your greenhouse flourish from spring through winter.
Spring: Setting the Foundation for Success
Preparing Your Greenhouse for Planting
Spring is the perfect time to get your greenhouse ready for a successful growing season. Start by cleaning out any debris and checking your ventilation system. Make sure there is no winter damage to fix before planting begins.
Make sure to check for signs of winter damage like cracked panels, bent framing, or clogged vents. If you see damage like this, you’ll want to address it before the growing season kicks into gear. See exactly what to look for and how to fix it here.
Starting Seeds Indoors
One of the biggest benefits of a greenhouse is starting seeds early. In early spring, sow seeds in trays with quality soil and provide proper light and humidity. Keep temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) for best growth.
If your greenhouse heats up quickly on sunny days, use shading cloth or vents to keep seedlings comfortable. Are things still a little too chilly inside? Especially in early spring, our Winter Greenhouse Tips still might apply to help keep conditions stable.
Summer: Managing Heat and Growth
Ventilation and Cooling
Summer heat can stress plants if your greenhouse gets too hot. If you have a glass roof, you’ll want to add a shade cloth to prevent your plants from getting scorched. Proper airflow this time of year is essential. Open windows and vents, or use automated vent openers to keep air moving.
Explore proven strategies for cooling your greenhouse with our Greenhouse Ventilation: Cooling tips, including venting strategies, shading materials, and ways to improve airflow.
Watering and Maintenance
Warm air dries soil faster, so plants need more frequent watering in summer. Consider a misting system or drip irrigation for consistent moisture. To avoid overwatering, check soil moisture with your finger or a moisture meter regularly. Quick daily checks now will save you headaches later.
Fall: Preparing for Cooler Weather
Transitioning Your Plants
As temperatures drop, prepare plants for cooler conditions. You may need to add insulation or move sensitive plants closer to heat sources to protect them from cold stress. Some growers use bubble wrap insulation or install heaters for temperature-sensitive crops.
Cleaning and Pest Control
Fall is the perfect time to remove dead plant material, sweep floors, and inspect for pests or disease. Cleaning now reduces pests like fungus gnats and helps prevent overwintering diseases from showing up next spring. Need more pest prevention ideas? Check out Charley & Carol’s Greenhouse Pest Control Tips.
Winter: Keeping Your Greenhouse Thriving Through Cold Months
Heating Options
In colder climates, supplemental heat helps keep plants healthy. Solar-powered vent controls, heaters, and heat mats can maintain stable temperatures. If you’re just getting started with greenhouse heating, start small and scale as needed.
Light and Humidity Management
Short winter days may require supplemental grow lights for active growth. Monitor humidity carefully to prevent mold and mildew, and keep air circulating with small fans or vent adjustments.
Wrapping Up Your First Year
Your first year in a greenhouse is a learning experience that rewards careful preparation and seasonal care. By following this guide, you’ll build confidence and enjoy a thriving garden all year long.
