{"id":1415,"date":"2023-09-19T20:40:18","date_gmt":"2023-09-19T20:40:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/?p=1415"},"modified":"2023-09-19T20:40:19","modified_gmt":"2023-09-19T20:40:19","slug":"how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Prepare Your Greenhouse This Autumn"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Autumn, with its kaleidoscope of colours, hints at the colder months ahead. For UK gardeners, this season is a bridge between the exuberance of summer growth and the dormancy of winter. As temperatures begin their downward journey, those fortunate to have a greenhouse in their garden face a set of specific challenges and opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The greenhouse can be a beacon of life during the colder months, allowing gardeners to extend the growing season, sow early crops, and shelter tender plants. Yet, with these benefits come responsibilities. Let&#8217;s delve into the essentials of greenhouse care this autumn, focusing on ventilation, heating, and pest control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_65 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#Ventilation\" title=\"Ventilation:\">Ventilation:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#Heating\" title=\"Heating:\">Heating:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#Pest_Control\" title=\"Pest Control:\">Pest Control:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#FAQs\" title=\"FAQ&#8217;s\">FAQ&#8217;s<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#How_often_should_I_ventilate_my_greenhouse_in_autumn\" title=\"How often should I ventilate my greenhouse in autumn?\">How often should I ventilate my greenhouse in autumn?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#Is_bubble_wrap_the_only_option_for_greenhouse_insulation\" title=\"Is bubble wrap the only option for greenhouse insulation?\">Is bubble wrap the only option for greenhouse insulation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#Can_I_use_regular_household_heaters_in_my_greenhouse\" title=\"Can I use regular household heaters in my greenhouse?\">Can I use regular household heaters in my greenhouse?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#How_do_I_know_if_my_plants_are_getting_enough_light_with_the_added_insulation\" title=\"How do I know if my plants are getting enough light with the added insulation?\">How do I know if my plants are getting enough light with the added insulation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#How_can_I_ensure_good_air_circulation_in_my_greenhouse\" title=\"How can I ensure good air circulation in my greenhouse?\">How can I ensure good air circulation in my greenhouse?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#Why_is_autumn_cleaning_important_for_pest_control\" title=\"Why is autumn cleaning important for pest control?\">Why is autumn cleaning important for pest control?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#Do_I_need_to_water_my_plants_less_in_the_autumn\" title=\"Do I need to water my plants less in the autumn?\">Do I need to water my plants less in the autumn?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#Are_there_specific_greenhouse_pests_I_should_be_wary_of_in_the_autumn\" title=\"Are there specific greenhouse pests I should be wary of in the autumn?\">Are there specific greenhouse pests I should be wary of in the autumn?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-this-autumn\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion:\">Conclusion:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ventilation\"><\/span><strong>Ventilation:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>The Balancing Act:<\/strong> Autumn in the UK can be unpredictable. While the days can still be relatively warm, nights begin to cool rapidly. Ensuring proper ventilation during the day can prevent excessive heat and moisture build-up, which can encourage mould growth and plant diseases.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Automatic Vent Openers:<\/strong> Investing in automatic vent openers can be beneficial. These devices open and close based on temperature, ensuring the greenhouse is adequately ventilated, even when you&#8217;re not around.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stay Vigilant:<\/strong> On particularly sunny days, be prepared to open doors and vents, but remember to close them in the late afternoon to trap warmth for the cooler evening.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Heating\"><\/span><strong>Heating:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Insulation with Bubble Wrap:<\/strong> As the temperature dips, insulating the greenhouse becomes essential. Bubble wrap can be affixed to the inside of the greenhouse, providing an extra layer of insulation. It&#8217;s lightweight, allows light through, and can make a significant difference in retaining heat.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Heating Solutions:<\/strong> For those particularly frosty nights, consider using a greenhouse heater. There are various options available, from electric to paraffin heaters. It&#8217;s essential to ensure that any heating solution is safe and adequately ventilated.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Water Barrels:<\/strong> Storing barrels or containers of water inside the greenhouse can act as heat sinks. They absorb heat during the day and release it slowly during the night, moderating temperature fluctuations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pest_Control\"><\/span><strong>Pest Control:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Autumn Clean-up:<\/strong> Autumn is an excellent time to give the greenhouse a thorough cleaning. Remove plant debris, disinfect surfaces, and ensure there&#8217;s no hiding place for pests to overwinter.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Inspect Plants:<\/strong> Before moving any plants into the greenhouse for protection from the cold, inspect them for pests and diseases. Isolating or treating affected plants can prevent the spread of problems within the greenhouse environment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Beneficial Insects:<\/strong> Introduce beneficial insects, such as ladybirds or lacewings, which can help control pests like aphids.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Keep it Dry:<\/strong> Damp conditions can attract slugs and snails. Ensure that the greenhouse is well-ventilated and avoid overwatering.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span><strong>FAQ&#8217;s<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1695155784820\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_often_should_I_ventilate_my_greenhouse_in_autumn\"><\/span><strong>How often should I ventilate my greenhouse in autumn?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>While there&#8217;s no one-size-fits-all answer, it&#8217;s essential to ventilate on warmer days to prevent overheating and moisture build-up. Regularly monitor the temperature and humidity, and adjust the ventilation accordingly.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1695155797385\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_bubble_wrap_the_only_option_for_greenhouse_insulation\"><\/span><strong>Is bubble wrap the only option for greenhouse insulation?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No, while bubble wrap is popular due to its effectiveness and affordability, there are other insulating materials like twin-wall polycarbonate panels or thermal screens. Choose based on your greenhouse structure, budget, and the level of insulation required.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1695155805757\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_use_regular_household_heaters_in_my_greenhouse\"><\/span><strong>Can I use regular household heaters in my greenhouse?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>It&#8217;s recommended to use heaters specifically designed for greenhouses, as they&#8217;re more efficient and safer for this purpose. Household heaters may not be suitable for the damp conditions in a greenhouse and could pose a safety risk.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1695155822707\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_I_know_if_my_plants_are_getting_enough_light_with_the_added_insulation\"><\/span><strong>How do I know if my plants are getting enough light with the added insulation?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Monitor your plants for signs of etiolation (stretching towards the light) or yellowing leaves. If you notice these signs, consider adjusting the insulation or using grow lights to supplement natural sunlight.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1695155831310\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_can_I_ensure_good_air_circulation_in_my_greenhouse\"><\/span><strong>How can I ensure good air circulation in my greenhouse?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Place plants with ample spacing between them, use oscillating fans at a low setting, and regularly open vents and doors on milder days to promote airflow.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1695155846016\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_is_autumn_cleaning_important_for_pest_control\"><\/span><strong>Why is autumn cleaning important for pest control?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Pests often overwinter in plant debris, crevices, or on plants themselves. Cleaning in the autumn helps remove these potential overwintering sites, reducing the chances of a pest infestation in spring.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1695155859680\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_I_need_to_water_my_plants_less_in_the_autumn\"><\/span><strong>Do I need to water my plants less in the autumn?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Typically, yes. As the days shorten and temperatures drop, plant growth slows, and their water requirements decrease. Always check the soil moisture levels before watering.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1695155871244\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_there_specific_greenhouse_pests_I_should_be_wary_of_in_the_autumn\"><\/span><strong>Are there specific greenhouse pests I should be wary of in the autumn?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can be particularly troublesome in greenhouses during autumn. Regular inspections and introducing beneficial insects can help keep these pests in check.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Autumn&#8217;s arrival in the UK heralds a time of transition. As the outside world prepares for winter&#8217;s embrace, the greenhouse becomes a sanctuary of warmth and growth. By tending to its needs concerning ventilation, heating, and pest control, gardeners can ensure that this space remains productive, protective, and vibrant, no matter how chilly the world outside becomes. Happy gardening!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Autumn, with its kaleidoscope of colours, hints at the colder months ahead. For UK gardeners, this season is a bridge between the exuberance of summer growth and the dormancy of winter. As temperatures begin their downward journey, those fortunate to have a greenhouse in their garden face a set of specific challenges and opportunities. The [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1416,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[39,85],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1415"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1415"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1415\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1417,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1415\/revisions\/1417"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1416"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1415"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1415"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1415"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}