As summer draws to a close and cooler weather approaches, it's time to prepare your redwood Sturdi-Built greenhouse for fall. Proper preparation now will help ensure your greenhouse remains a productive growing environment and is ready for the changing seasons. Follow these steps to transition your greenhouse smoothly from summer to fall.

1. Inspect and Repair the Redwood

Fall is the perfect time to inspect the redwood for any signs of wear or damage. Look for cracks, splits, or areas where the wood appears discolored or dry. The end of summer may be your last opportunity before next spring to restain your greenhouse because the wood should be completely dry. To determine if a restain is necessary, check if the wood looks dry or if water no longer beads up on the surface; these are signs the protective stain has worn off. If needed, apply a high-quality, oil-based stain to protect the wood from moisture and UV damage, preserving the natural beauty and durability of the redwood. Read more about maintaining your greenhouse here.

2. Clean the Roof and Exterior

A clean exterior is essential for allowing maximum sunlight to penetrate the greenhouse as daylight hours decrease. Use a soft bristle brush with warm water and a small amount of mild soap to clean the exterior, including the roof. Avoid power washing, as it can damage the redwood or glazing materials. This step will help remove dust, algae, and grime that may have built up over the summer. Check out this article on safe cleaning practices for greenhouse exteriors.

3. Deep Clean the Interior

Inside the greenhouse, clear out any clutter, unwanted items, and plant debris. Make sure to remove anything organic, like dirt or leaves, that may have accumulated near the wooden base walls to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rot. A clean and organized interior helps maintain a healthy growing environment and reduces the risk of pests and diseases. Learn more about common greenhouse pests and how to prevent them.

4. Clean Screens and Vents

Proper ventilation is key as temperatures fluctuate during the fall. Check and clean all screens on Jalousie windows and roof vent screen kits, removing any debris, dust, or insects that could obstruct airflow. Clean screens ensure good ventilation, which helps prevent mold and keeps the greenhouse environment fresh. 

5. Remove Shade Cloth and Clean It

With cooler temperatures ahead, remove the shade cloth as it is no longer needed. Clean it using a mild solution of bleach and warm water to remove any dirt or mildew. To make reinstallation easier next spring, consider marking the upper right corner with a tie wrap or a tag. 

6. Inspect and Update Your Watering System

As the season changes, so do your plants’ watering needs. Inspect your watering system for leaks, blockages, or damage, and adjust the settings accordingly to prevent overwatering or underwatering. If you use a drip irrigation system, clean the emitters and check the lines for any wear or damage. 

7. Bring Tender Plants Back into the Greenhouse

As temperatures drop, bring any tender plants back into the greenhouse for the winter. Before moving them inside, carefully check each plant for pests such as aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. Treat any infested plants to prevent introducing pests into your greenhouse environment. 

8. Transition to Fall Planting

With the greenhouse prepped, it's time to transition to fall planting. Remove any summer crops that are no longer productive and refresh the soil with organic compost or a balanced fertilizer. Consider planting cool-season crops like lettuce, kale, spinach, and other greens that thrive in cooler temperatures. Fall is also a great time to propagate perennials and start seedlings for early spring planting. 

9. Pest and Disease Prevention

Regularly inspect your greenhouse and plants for any signs of pests or diseases. Remove any infected plants and clean affected areas to prevent further spread. Integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, such as introducing beneficial insects, using organic insecticidal soap, or setting up sticky traps, can be effective in controlling pest populations. 

10. Optimize Ventilation and Temperature Control

With the unpredictable fall weather, maintaining proper ventilation and temperature control is essential. Ensure all vents, windows, and louvers are functioning correctly. Adjust ventilation settings to accommodate temperature and humidity swings, and replace Bayliss power tubes if roof vents are not opening completely any longer. Test heaters and oscillating fans to ensure they are still working ahead of when you need them to. If you haven’t already, now is a good time to think about adding a heater for those particularly chilly nights.

11. Maintain the Greenhouse Environment

To prevent condensation and reduce the risk of mold or mildew, ensure good air circulation inside your greenhouse. Use fans, a hygrometer, and proper ventilation adjustments to keep the environment balanced. Controlling humidity and temperature will help your fall and winter crops thrive.

12. Plan Ahead for Winter

While preparing for fall, take this time to plan ahead for the winter months. Stock up on necessary supplies like frost cloths, heaters, and plant covers to be prepared for colder weather. Being ready now will save you time and stress when the temperatures drop. 

By following these steps, you’ll keep your redwood Sturdi-Built greenhouse in excellent condition, ready for the fall and beyond. Proper preparation ensures your greenhouse will continue to provide a healthy environment for plants throughout the changing seasons.

Wishing you a happy and productive fall gardening season!