Heating a greenhouse is more prominent during the time of winter. Heating requires energy which we get from the environment. Plants kept in the greenhouse are mostly tender so they need to be taken care of properly. Greenhouses should be kept warm and well ventilated especially during the winter so that the tender plants can survive. Most plants that are kept in a greenhouse include fresh greens, fruits, vegetables, flowers, and many others.
Greenhouses are important since they keep the plants safe from cold, pests and other things. While heating a greenhouse we need to consider ways that enable us to conserve energy and protect the environment. I have provided you with 10 tips about how to heat a greenhouse, and they include:
10 Tips About How To Heat A Greenhouse
1. Insulate with bubble wrap
As we all know, bubble wraps are colorless but in this case, we use the horticultural and not the packaging one because they will withstand a lot of UV light from the sun to reach the plants. Ensure your windows are cleaned so that maximum light can pass through it to reach the bubble wrap. Also, ensure that you choose one with big holes since they are better insulators and also bring in a lot of light.
2. Invest in a greenhouse heating system
This is believed to be the safest method. It is also advantageous because it absorbs all the moisture, unlike the paraffin and propane heaters. Fan heaters are also advantageous since warmth is spread evenly, therefore, reducing cold spots on the plants. Paraffin and propane heaters are also efficient but you need to maintain ventilation on sunny days to prevent the growth of mold on the plants.
3. Use a thermostat
Thermostats aid in the regulation of heat in the greenhouse. Most electric greenhouses heaters come with thermostats so that you can only use the heat where necessary that is when the heat in the greenhouse drops greatly. Thermostats save money and energy therefore this is also an efficient way to heat the greenhouse.
4. Use a thermometer
If you do not have an electric greenhouse or a thermostat then you should consider this method. It is a little bit tiresome since you have to check it daily but also effective. Purchase a thermometer with both maximum and minimum readings so that it is easy to regulate it.
5. Choose the right temperature
Most plants need a minimum temperature of 37F so it is advisable to avoid wasting heat, energy, and money on very high temperatures that your plants do not need. Consider the type of plants you have in your greenhouse since some plants might prefer a little higher temperature compared to others.
6. Position heaters carefully
This is an important key tip in heating a greenhouse. The electric fans should be located in areas where it is open and at a central spot at the end of the greenhouse so that all plants can be able to access it. The heaters should be away from water since water and electricity do not align. The electric heater should also be able to direct airflow above the nearby plants so that the heat can be distributed evenly throughout the greenhouse.
7. Only heat the area you need to
Avoid heating the whole greenhouse for a few fragile plants. Instead, you can divide your greenhouse into portions so that the most delicate plants are grouped. This will ensure that energy is saved as only a portion is used for heating. You can design a greenhouse in your greenhouse by, for example, placing bubble wrap curtains on the most delicate plants.
8. Use horticultural fleece
Horticultural fleece is a thin polypropylene fabric that is used as a floating mulch to protect fragile crops during cold weather. It also prevents pests from destroying the crops. It provides enough light, ventilation, and insulation so your crops are safe.
9. Don't forget to ventilate
Good ventilation is a vital key when considering heating in a greenhouse.it helps to stop the spread of fungal diseases hence the crops can grow in a healthy environment. Ventilations also prevents moisture from building up. To avoid condensation, you can open the vents on very sunny days.
9. Heated propagation
Heated propagators help seeds to germinate quickly while maintaining the same temperature indoors. Window sill propagators are more efficient when you make only a few sowings. These keep the seeds warm even after germination hence effective.
Conclusion
During cold weather or winter, crops are most likely to deteriorate quickly so we need mechanisms to enable them to survive. If your greenhouse is warm and very well ventilated then your fragile plants will survive the winter. You should the tips above to keep your crops warm without having to spend a lot and also conserving the energy. Also, ensure that you get the right Greenhouse kit to get the most from it.
