Winter Prep for Spring Growth: Key Steps to Ready Your Greenhouse in February
Though February may still feel like winter, it's the perfect time to prep your greenhouse for early spring planting. A little maintenance now will set you up for successful seed starting and healthy growth. Let’s dive into key steps to get your greenhouse ready—and inspire your spring planting plans!
1. Deep Clean and Inspect Your Greenhouse 🧼✨
Why February Matters: More light means better germination. Ensure your greenhouse is spotless and ready.
Detailed Steps:
- Remove all plants and sweep out leaves, soil, and debris.
- Clean glazing with greenhouse-safe detergent for maximum light.
- Disinfect surfaces and seed trays to prevent fungal diseases.
- Inspect frame, glass, and accessories. Order replacement parts if needed.
- Test and clean heating systems to avoid surprises when seedlings arrive.
Pro Tip: A clean greenhouse boosts plant health and your peace of mind!
2. Prepare for March Seed Starting 📅🌱
Get Ahead: February is for planning, ordering, and setting up.
In-Depth Tips:
- Stock up on seed-starting mix, trays, and labels.
- Calibrate heating mats to ensure even warmth.
- Install grow lights with timers for 12-16 hours/day.
- Create a seeding calendar: cool crops first, warm crops later.
Bonus Tip: Set up a seed inventory list to avoid last-minute orders.
3. Optimize Ventilation and Temperature Control 🌡️💨
February Task: Ensure your greenhouse stays temperate.
Guide:
- On a warm day, monitor the roof vents to ensure they are opening fully. If they aren't, order replacement Bayliss MK7 Power Tubes as needed.
- Calibrate thermostats for day (65°F) and night (55°F).
- Regularly check your hygrometers to ensure humidity stays between 50-70%. If humidity is too low, add a humidifier or mist the air during dry spells. For high humidity, increase ventilation by opening jalousie windows, adjusting roof vents, or add an exhaust fan.
Did You Know? Proper ventilation prevents mildew and heat stress.
4. Organize Your Greenhouse for Spring 🛠️📦
February Focus: Efficiency is key.
Setup Ideas:
- Order heat mats for seedlings to jumpstart and improve germination.
- Add shelving for tools and supplies.
- Call Sturdi-Built to order a 3'L x 27"W soil bench from Sturdi-Built for a practical potting station, perfect for potting seed trays.
Soil Bench perfect for potting up seed trays
Greenhouse Hack: Label storage bins by crop type for easy access.
5. Check Irrigation Systems 💦🚿
February Maintenance: Water matters most to young plants.
Checklist:
- Flush lines, inspect emitters, and test timers.
- Adjust schedules for seedlings’ needs.
Expert Tip: Use a moisture meter for precise watering.
6. Plan for Pest Prevention 🐞🛡️
February Defense: Stop pests before they start.
Actions:
- Set sticky traps, inspect crevices, and release beneficial insects.
- Seal entry points and clean hidden areas.
Remember: Prevention saves plants (and your sanity).
February prep means thriving seedlings by March. Get your Sturdi-Built greenhouse ready now and reap the rewards all season long!