6 Essential Tips for Managing Greenhouse Pests During Summer

Summer’s here, and while your greenhouse is bursting with life, those pesky pests are also making themselves at home. Don’t let them crash your garden party! Here’s how to keep your greenhouse thriving and pest-free, all while having a little fun along the way.

1. Keep It Clean and Green

Think of your greenhouse as a five-star resort for your plants—cleanliness isn't just about aesthetics, it's essential for keeping pests at bay. Dead leaves and plant debris can quickly become a breeding ground for unwanted insects, while standing water invites mosquitoes and other pests to move in. Regularly sweeping up debris, wiping down surfaces, and ensuring proper drainage not only creates a more visually appealing space but also disrupts the life cycle of pests that thrive in neglected areas. A clean, well-maintained greenhouse doesn't just look good—it actively helps prevent infestations before they start.

2. Put Up Some Pest-Proof Barriers

Sometimes, you just have to say “No entry!” Keep doors closed, if possible, and install screens on any openings like roof vents, windows, and base wall vents to keep those tiny invaders out. Sturdi-Built offers roof vent screens for roof vents and jalousie windows in the door to provide extra ventilation while keeping pests out. Row covers are an inexpensive way to protect your precious plants, especially when they are seedlings. Learn how to use row covers like a pro with this handy guide.

3. Play Detective

Channel your inner Sherlock Holmes and make regular plant inspections part of your greenhouse routine. To catch pests before they wreak havoc, you’ll need to get up close and personal with your plants. Don’t just glance over the tops—flip those leaves and take a good look underneath. This is where tiny pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies often hide, hoping you won’t notice them until it’s too late. Use a magnifying glass if you have to; even the smallest clues can lead to a big discovery.

Sticky traps are your trusty sidekick in this investigation. These simple but effective tools can reveal early signs of a pest problem by trapping insects as they move about your greenhouse. Place them strategically near plants or in areas where pests are likely to congregate. By regularly checking these traps, you can monitor pest populations and take action before they become a full-blown infestation.

If you’re unsure about what you’ve found, don’t worry—help is at hand. The University of California offers a comprehensive pest detective guide that’s packed with information to help you identify and understand the pests you’re dealing with. From photos to detailed descriptions, this guide can be an invaluable resource as you work to keep your greenhouse pest-free.

4. Recruit Some Bug Buddies

Why fight pests alone when you can bring in some backup? Ladybugs, parasitic wasps, and predatory mites are the superheroes of the insect world, each with a unique ability to target specific garden pests. Ladybugs love to feast on aphids, parasitic wasps are relentless against caterpillars, and predatory mites keep spider mites in check. By enlisting these natural allies, you can maintain a healthy, thriving garden without resorting to chemical pesticides. Want to meet your new bug buddies? Get to know your bug buddies over at Planet Natural.

5. Cool, Calm, and Controlled

Pests love a stuffy, hot greenhouse—so don’t give them what they want! Keep your space cool with proper ventilation, and control the humidity like a pro. Sturdi-Built greenhouses come equipped with all the right tools, from automatic vent openers to jalousie windows, making it easy to create the perfect climate for your plants—and a not-so-friendly one for pests. 

6. Mix It Up with Crop Rotation

Keep pests on their toes by rotating your crops and planting a variety of species. It’s like a game of musical chairs—only the pests lose! With Sturdi-Built’s spacious designs, you’ve got plenty of room to experiment with different layouts and keep your plants healthy and vibrant.

By following these fun and stylish tips, you’ll keep your greenhouse buzzing with the good stuff—healthy plants, happy bugs, and zero pests! Remember, a little creativity and proactive care go a long way in keeping your summer garden in tip-top shape.

For even more pest-busting tips, swing by the University of Minnesota Extension and get ready to rock your greenhouse all season long!

Diversity is key to managing pests—mix plants and add beneficial insects for a thriving, pest-free greenhouse.