GREENHOUSE MAINTENANCE
Clean it out and prepare to overwinter tender plants
THE greenhouse has been looking sad and barren in recent weeks, which is a complete contrast to the summer months when it was packed with chilli plants and growbags of healthy tomato plants.
But these have long gone, so it’s time to clean out the greenhouse and make sure it is free of pests and problems that might affect overwintering tender plants.
Start by taking everything out of the greenhouse. If it is a cold day and you have tender plants already in there, put them somewhere sheltered, wrapped in fleece, for the duration of the cleaning.
Wash down the windows and roof, inside and out, with hot soapy water or a solution of Jeyes Fluid. This gets rid of grime and lets overwintering plants make the most of the available winter light and warmth. Check that the panes are secure – replace any that are cracked and add clips to those that are loose.
Clear the floor and surfaces of dead plant material and other debris, and compost or bin it accordingly. Sweep and wipe down work surfaces and, if you have a gravel floor, replenish the stones to replace those scuffed away.
Once the greenhouse is clean, bring the plants back in. Light a garlic candle and leave it to burn overnight to get rid of remaining pests such as red spider mite, white fly and aphids.
Unlike sulphur candles of old, plants can stay inside while the garlic candle burns, making them easier to use and environmentally friendly.