The question arises so what temperature should the greenhouse be? The answer is dependent on what plant varieties are in the greenhouse during the colder months. For example; tropical plants and many varieties of orchids require a warm constant temperature because they are actively growing plants. Rooted cuttings, wintering-over plants and starting seedlings in a heated propagating bed, the night temperature of the heater is set at 5˚-7˚C (40˚-45˚F). During the day the inside greenhouse temperature always rises a few degrees especially when the sun shines on a cold day.
Operating a cool or frost-free greenhouse will decrease the greenhouse heating costs. Here are a few tips to control the winter greenhouse environment.
1. A daily reading on the maximum-minimum thermometer will show if the heater thermostat requires adjustment.
2. A small circulating fan will maintain continuous air movement and equalize the temperature and distribute air evenly in the greenhouse.
Starting seedlings requires a minimum heat of 20˚C (70˚F) to germinate, so first thing that comes to mind is the greenhouse heating bill. A cost saving solution is having a heated propagation area. I use a soil cable propagating box. The box is filled with two inches of sand and the soil cable is laid in looped form. Then it is covered with another layer of sand and the seed flats are placed on top. The heat travels through the sand and provides an even bottom heat for the flats or trays. Soil cables have a built-in thermostat that will activate as the sand or soil temperature drops. Heated seedling mats are also available.
Greenhouse gardening is exciting but sometimes things just happen beyond your control. Yesterday I looked out my kitchen window and noticed that the greenhouse glass had condensation. The circulating fan had stopped working. Constant circulation of air is what reduces condensation.
This is my greenhouse in the Fall season. This greenhouse
is designed and built by B.C. Greenhouses. They have a wide selection of greenhouses. www.bcgreenhouses.com
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