Have you asked yourself, how do I winterize a small greenhouse? Well, there are a few steps you should learn, such as cleaning, inspecting, testing, and so forth.
Extreme cold, plunging temperatures, and winter winds are just some of the instances you will expect during the cold weather. For sure, these instances can be detrimental to your plants, especially if you’re not cautious.
The good news is that you can actually protect them as long as you follow this guide. But, before we will proceed, there’s one thing you should know that will compel you to winterize your greenhouse.
Plants- fruits and vegetables- will indeed survive no matter how the weather is intense outside. Just read on to learn more!
7 Vital Ways To Winterize Your Small Greenhouse
Just like you, your plants also need to be prepared for this season. Remember, one of the factors affecting their growth is temperature. So, if all is set, then there’s nothing to worry about. Always ask yourself, how do I winterize a small greenhouse?
If you’re not really sure, you’re just in the right place; let’s learn the few necessary steps to winterize a small greenhouse.
#1 Clean the greenhouse
Well, even if it’s not wintertime, this is the fundamental thing to do- clean your small greenhouse. You must begin with clean surroundings. Make sure the greenhouse is exact. Get rid of everything unnecessary and scrub all the dirt.
See to it that the pots you have transferred into the greenhouse are washed and cleaned; this is to prevent pests. You don’t want them to intrude your small greenhouse, right?
So if you want to winterize a small greenhouse, maintain cleanliness.
#2 Inspect and make repairs or replacements
The main reason why you winterize a small greenhouse is to keep the cold air out. So, you have to inspect for ripped coverings and broken glasses. If you find one, then it’s time for you to make repairs or replacements.
Also, you can seal or caulk any openings, if necessary. Remember, even if the hole is small or thin, you need not leave openings. Otherwise, your greenhouse would be of no use. It would not be effective in protecting your plants from the cold if it can still pass through your greenhouse.
That’s it! Winterizing a small greenhouse requires you to make necessary repairs and replacements.
#3 Test the heater
Don’t just rely on the heater you have just bought or have used before; even if it used to be effective before, this might change through time. That’s the reason why you should perform a test run. Also, it should undergo maintenance and routine service, if needed.
Aside from that, see to it that you have an accurate thermostat. Well, you have to make sure that the system is properly functioning. Remember that it is responsible for sensing temperatures, and you know your main goal!
Otherwise, if you are shown the wrong temperature, and the temperature is, in reality, low, you wouldn’t be alerted, and you can’t do the right thing. In order for you to winterize a small greenhouse, test your devices, it will surely be worth it!
#4 Know the temperature of the areas in your greenhouse
If you understand the temperature of the specific area in your greenhouse, then you can make an excellent plan. If it’s naturally warm in such an area, then plants placed therein don’t require much isolation.
On the other hand, plants placed in the coldest areas may require isolation. Also, you can either cover them with blankets or raise them off the ground, depending upon what’s feasible.
#5 Increase efficiency by storing heat
Perhaps, you’re thinking how much it will cost you to control the temperature of your greenhouse. Don’t worry a lot; you can actually save heating costs when you know how to maximize efficiency.
It’s very simple, and it can be done naturally. There are actually varying options; it depends upon your discretion. You can use planters to store heat. Either you will fill it with soil or water. Either way, it is sure to secure a warm temperature inside your small greenhouse.
#6 Attach circulating fans
Yes, you might think that you’ve already accumulated ample heat. But that’s not enough. There’s still a need for you to add greenhouse circulation fans inside, allowing heat to circulate properly in the entire space.
Aside from moving heat, these fans are also helpful in reducing mold and mildew build-up. With this, you’re sure that your plants will have a healthier and better environment. Then again, ask yourself, how do I winterize a small greenhouse.
#7 Prepare an emergency plan
It is inevitable for emergencies to occur. That’s why you need to have an emergency checklist. It also means that you should also prepare for necessary supplies, accessible in case of a freeze.
How do I winterize a small greenhouse? This is also a must; you should have things like a temperature alarm, repair tape, poly covering, or a backup heater. Investing in these things will help, especially if things get worse.
Conclusion
Now that you already know the steps on how you should winterize a small greenhouse, it’s time for you to apply it. The steps are very straightforward; you just have to be patient and follow religiously each.
Don’t miss a step; otherwise, you can’t reap the utmost benefits of your greenhouse. If you want to save your plants from the freezing temperature outside, always ask yourself, “how do I winterize a small greenhouse?”
Hopefully, this article has helped you. Go, act, and save your green thumb this winter!