Even if you only have a small greenhouse you can still perform adequate gardening. For the best results however, some fundamental principles have to be followed. For those new to gardening, the following suggestions may be worth considering.
Sterilize the Structure
The unit needs to be sterilized twice a year. The unit produces an environment that is ideal for cultivating sprouts and seed germination. But this setting also makes it susceptible to fungi growth.
To avoid this problem, use a cleaning solution (1 part household bleach to 9 parts of water). Dip a brush in this solution. Brush every nook and cranny of the unit. You should focus on any wood parts as they are most prone to fungi growth.
Provide Shade
Some plants may require you to shade the structure. If that is the case, place a piece of cloth over the unit. The shading is often needed by sensitive plants. You may also want to put shades when it gets very hot in the summer.
Heating
If the weather is cold, consider heating the structure from the outside. There are heaters made especially for this purpose. You can also string some blue Xmas lights together for a homemade heater.
They will generate enough heat to prevent the plants from freezing up. Use only blue lights, as plants can be sensitive to other lights.
Space Considerations
Organization is essential in a small greenhouse. Place the larger plants on the ground so it will have space to grow up. The medium sized plants need to be placed on the middle shelves. The topmost shelves are for sprouts and seedlings. The sensitive plants should be placed in shaded parts.
Watering
If you have many starting seeds, a misting system will be necessary. If the plants are already set, water them with a can or hose. You can also water the whole place to moisten it.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Inspect the unit regularly for any cracks. Evaluate it for any damages following strong rain or wind. Look out for any plastic cracks. Too many of these will cause cool air to seep in. Replace or fix any broken parts that emerge.
Location
Place the unit where it will get plenty of sunlight. There are many heaters available, but sunlight is still the best option. Unless it is extremely hot, avoid putting the unit around large trees. The best place to get sunlight is southeast or south of your home.
Tips
If you are going to use a heater, make sure it is of sufficient size. For example, a 220 volt circuit heater is good enough for a 12 foot square structure. This option is ideal during evenings when sunlight is not available. The best types of heaters are electrical, as they are clean. You can also use oil or gas heaters.
With proper maintenance, a small greenhouse should be able to serve your needs. In the end, it is not so much the size that matters, but how you organize the plants, and if heating and watering are sufficient.
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