Top 5 Winter Crops to Grow in Your Greenhouse

Top 5 Winter Crops to Grow in Your Greenhouse

As the colder months approach, many gardeners may think that their growing season is over. However, with the use of a greenhouse, winter gardening can be a reality and provide a steady supply of fresh, seasonal produce. Growing winter crops in your greenhouse not only provides a source of fresh food but also helps extend the growing season and keep you active in the garden during the winter months.

Here are my top five winter crops to grow in your greenhouse.

Salad Greens
Salad greens such as lettuce, spinach, and arugula are great options for winter greenhouse gardening. They are easy to grow and fast-maturing, making them ideal for quick harvests. Additionally, they can be grown in containers or pots, making the best use of the limited space available in your greenhouse.

Herbs
Herbs such as parsley, basil, and chives are essential to any kitchen garden. Growing them in your greenhouse during the winter provides a fresh supply of herbs to add to your cooking, even when the outdoor garden is dormant. They are also relatively low maintenance and can be grown in pots, making them ideal for small greenhouses.

Radishes
Radishes are quick-maturing, taking just 4-6 weeks to reach maturity. They are a great option for small greenhouses as they can be grown in pots or containers, taking up minimal space. Radishes also tolerate cold temperatures well, making them ideal for growing in your greenhouse during the winter months.

Peas
Peas are an excellent option for winter greenhouse gardening as they are cold-hardy and grow well in the lower light levels of winter. They can be grown in pots or containers and can be grown vertically, using trellis, to maximize the space in your greenhouse. Peas are also easy to grow and can be harvested in just 60-70 days, providing a quick and bountiful crop.

Carrots
Carrots are a great crop to grow in your greenhouse during the winter months. They are cold-hardy and can be grown in pots or containers, making the most of the limited space available. They take approximately 70-80 days to mature and are a great source of fresh produce during the winter months.

Bonus: 5 Tips For Growing In The Greenhouse During Winter

1. During the winter months, there is less natural light available, so it’s important to supplement with artificial lighting to provide your crops with the light they need to grow.
2. It’s important to maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level in your greenhouse to ensure the health of your crops. Investing in a temperature and humidity control system can help make this easier to manage.
3. Good drainage is essential to the health of your crops, particularly during the winter months when the weather can be icey, and damp, with dampness potentially leading to disease problems. Make sure to use well-draining soil and provide adequate drainage in your containers to ensure your crops thrive.
4. Fertilising your crops is an important part of maintaining their health, especially during the winter when they are growing more slowly and receive minimal natural sunlight. Make sure to use a balanced fertiliser that provides the right nutrients for your specific crops and follow the recommended application rates.
5. Good ventilation is important to prevent condensation and dampness in your greenhouse, which can lead to disease and mold issues. Ensure your greenhouse has adequate ventilation to allow fresh air to circulate, while also preventing drafts that could damage your plants.

In conclusion, growing winter crops in your greenhouse can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Not only will it provide you with a fresh source of food, but it will also help extend the growing season and keep you active in the garden during the winter months. Whether you are new to greenhouse gardening or an experienced gardener, the five crops listed above are great options to consider for your winter garden. Happy growing!