November is the last chance to get the greenhouse in order before winter. Many people simply close it and leave, but in the spring they are faced with mold, the remains of last year’s plants and pests that overwintered in the cracks. In just 1-2 hours in November, you can make sure that the greenhouse is ready for planting in the spring.
Here's what to do:
- Remove everything. Take out the remains of plants, garter material, empty pots. Burn plant debris, especially if there are signs of disease.
- Wash the frames and cover. Use warm water with baking soda. Baking soda removes organic contaminants and disinfects. For polycarbonate, a soft sponge is suitable; for glass, you can use a brush.
- Disinfect the soil. If you do not change the soil, spill it with a solution of soda and salt: 100 g of baking soda, 50 g of table salt per 10 liters of water. This will suppress fungal spores and pest eggs.
- Treat the wooden parts. If the greenhouse has wooden shelving or frames, wipe them with a solution of copper sulfate or just vinegar. This will prevent rot and mold.
- Leave to air. For 2-3 days, open the doors and windows slightly if there is no severe frost. Let everything dry. Then close tightly, but not airtight: leave a small gap for ventilation to prevent condensation from accumulating.
In winter, a closed greenhouse creates an ideal environment for fungi and pests. But if you remove plant remains, disinfect surfaces and provide ventilation, there will simply be nothing for pests to cling to.
In the spring you will open a clean, dry greenhouse with no musty smell, no black spots on the walls and no need to wash everything again.
Question and answer:
Do I need to remove polycarbonate for the winter?
Not if it's high quality. But it is important to remove snow from the roof so that the frame does not deform.
Can bleach be used to disinfect a greenhouse?
It is possible, but it is aggressive for metal and plastic. Baking soda and vinegar are safer and do not leave a toxic residue.
Is the method suitable for film greenhouses?
Yes, but it is better to remove the film, wash it and store it in a dry place. Treat the frame in the same way as in a stationary greenhouse.
