Autumn GreenHouse Chores Guide

Autumn is a great time to get your greenhouse in order for the colder months ahead. Here’s a handy list of greenhouse chores you can focus on during the autumn:

1. Clean and Disinfect

• Clean surfaces: Wipe down benches, tables, and shelves. Remove any dead plants or old debris that may have collected.
• Disinfect tools: Clean your gardening tools to prevent the spread of diseases. Soak them in soapy water and / or a disinfectant solution.
• Glass/Plastic panels: Clean the greenhouse panels, removing dirt, algae, or mildew to let in as much light as possible. Be sure to use a mild soapy water mixture and a soft cloth only to avoid any damage to your glass, polycarbonate or plastic film coating -  we love a simple eco friendly dishwashing liquid. 

2. Inspect and Maintain the Structure

• Check for leaks: Inspect the structure for leaks, cracks, or weak spots. Fix any issues before the winter weather sets in.
• Check ventilation: Make sure that vents and windows are functioning properly to allow for air circulation during mild autumn days.
• Examine the frame: Check for any loose bolts or connections that may need tightening before winter weather hits - including your roller door mechanisms. 

3. Prepare the Soil

• Clear out old plants: Remove spent plants to prevent pests and diseases from lingering. Consider chopping the plant off at the base and leaving the roots in the soil to break down naturally and replenish some nutrients back into the soil. In doing this you're also limiting the interference with the soils natural microbial balance and levels. 
• Add compost: Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter to improve its structure and fertility for next season.
• Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around plants to protect the soil from cold weather and retain moisture - being sure to leave a 1-2cm gap around the plants stem. 

4. Temperature Control

• Check heaters: If you use a heater, now’s the time to check it’s working properly. Replace any parts or fuel sources as needed.
• Insulate: Consider adding thermal blankets or horticultural fleece to protect plants from frost.
• Prepare for frost: Make sure to have frost protection (cloches, fleece, or bubble wrap) ready in case the temperature drops. 
• Getting in the habit of closing vents and doors at night or installing an Auto Roof Vent Opener for both a Greenhouse or Tunnel House to maintain your nighttime temperatures. 

5. Organise and Plan for Spring

• Plan next season’s garden: Start sketching your plans for next spring. You might want to grow different varieties or try new plants.
• Order seeds: Autumn is a great time to order seeds or bulbs for the next growing season.
• Rotate crops: If you're growing vegetables, plan your crop rotation to avoid planting the same plants in the same soil.

6. Pest Control

• Check for pests: While pest activity slows in the cooler months, it's still important to inspect your greenhouse for any signs of pests.
• Neem oil or insecticidal soap: Use these natural solutions to treat any remaining pests.

7. Watering System Check

• Inspect irrigation: Ensure your watering system is still in good working order. Replace damaged hoses or sprinkler heads.
• Adjust watering schedules: Reduce the frequency of watering as the days get shorter and the temperature drops.

By taking these steps, you'll ensure your greenhouse is well-prepared for the colder months and that your plants are set up for success in the spring!

Theres a huge range of winter crops you can grow in your greenhouse to ensure a plentiful harvest year round, with planning your greenhouse can be producing non stop! Consider planting some of these plants - Lettuces, Kale, Spinach, Mint, Thyme, Parsley, Carrots, Beetroot, radishes, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts and so much more!

If you have some more winter greenhouse gardening tips and trick please comment below! We would love to share your ideas with our readers so we can all improve our love of greenhouse growing.