Greenhouse Guide

Advantages of using a greenhouse

• Northern Alberta has very low min temps ~50°C

• Very short frost-free season: ~45–60 days

• Last frost: Often late May to early June

• First frost: As early as late August

·       Greenhouses protect plants from light frost and extend the growing season has they are warmer and more humid than the outdoors

·       Protects from strong winds and pests. Some wind is good- so solar fans can help with air circulation

·       Some plants can only be grown in the greenhouse this far north, especially plants that take a long time to grow and are sensitive to cold

How Greenhouses Work

·       Captures solar heat (heated passively)

·       Physically excludes pests and wind

·       Fans circulate air, panels regulate humidity

·       Allows light in through transparent walls

Using a Greenhouse to your advantage

·       Greenhouses should be oriented East to West to take advantage of the southern sun

·       Thermometers can help monitor temperature, vents to cool the greenhouse should be open if it is above approx. 24°C

·       Greenhouses are humid, so don’t over water

o   Water in the morning to avoid mould

o   Use watering cans

·       Check plants for pests like aphids, whiteflies

·       Remove dead or diseased leaves or plants

·       Keep the space clean

Shared Greenhouse Etiquette

·       Label your plants and trays

·       Share space fairly

·       Clean up and remove dead or diseased plants