Maximizing Space in your Greenhouse
Greenhouses, whether it is an 8x8 or a 12x32, offer a controlled environment that can maximize your gardening potential. However, space can often be a limiting factor. Every year, I have a new focus for my greenhouse. Last year, it was having a full container garden in my greenhouse to fully supply my family with winter greens. The year before, it was growing new to me cool-season flowers.
This year, it is all about using my space the most efficiently. And, to truly optimize your greenhouse, growing vertically is the key. By simply implementing two things: grow towers and hanging baskets, you can increase your plant yield without expanding your footprint. Here's how you can make the most of your greenhouse space while keeping it aesthetically pleasing.
Grow Towers: The Vertical Garden Revolution
What are Grow Towers?
Grow towers are vertical gardening systems that allow you to plant multiple layers of crops in a compact space. These towers can be either hydroponic or soil-based and come in various designs to suit different types of plants and greenhouse sizes.
Plants Ideal for Grow Towers
- Herbs: Basil, parsley, mint, cilantro, and thyme.
- Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale, and Swiss chard.
- Small Fruit Plants: Strawberries and cherry tomatoes.
- Flowers: Nasturtiums and marigolds for color and pest control.
Supplies Needed
- Grow tower system (pre-built or DIY) I have two grow towers from GreenStalk® and love them. I have also used smaller generic versions from Amazon that I sat on my gardening tables. Both have been very successful.
- Potting mix or hydroponic setup
- Seeds or seedlings – I grow all of my seedlings in the greenhouse and then transplant them into the towers.
Setup and Maintenance
Assembly: Follow the manufacturer's instructions if using a pre-built system. For DIY, stack plant containers vertically using a sturdy frame.
Planting: Fill with potting mix, plant your seeds or seedlings, and water them in.
Irrigation: Ensure a consistent water supply. Hydroponic systems often come with built-in irrigation. I am not familiar with using a hydroponic system, but it is something I’m curious about.
Lighting: Position your tower where it gets maximum sunlight or supplement with grow lights. I never used grow lights and love having them in the greenhouse, they thrive!
Aesthetic Tips
- Use colorful plants with different textures to create visual interest.
- Position towers near the walls to create an open center space.
Hanging Baskets: Elegance in the Air
What to Hang From
Hanging baskets can be suspended from the greenhouse frame, ceiling beams, or specially installed hooks and brackets. I used a curtain rod and positioned it over two rafters – it worked great. However, the second one I used did not fare so well and collapsed. This year, I will use painted PVC pipe. Ensure that whatever you use can support the weight of a fully watered basket.
Ideal Plants for Hanging Baskets
Flowers: Petunias, fuchsias, begonias, and trailing lobelia
Herbs: Thyme, oregano, and rosemary
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, dwarf peas, and compact pepper varieties
Fruits: Strawberries
Supplies Needed
- Hanging baskets (wire, plastic, or ceramic)
- Coconut coir or sphagnum moss liners
- Potting soil
- Seeds of seedlings
- Hooks, bracelets, or ceiling beams
Setup and Maintenance
- Hanging: Install hooks or brackets securely. Ensure they can hold the weight of the filled baskets.
- Planting: Line the basket with coir or moss, fill with potting soil, and plant your seeds or seedlings.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and regularly thereafter. Consider a drip system for consistent moisture. I use an extendable garden sprayer on my flexible water hose. Works great!
- Pruning: Regularly prune and deadhead to encourage healthy growth and maintain aesthetics.
Aesthetic Tips
- Mix and match plants with varying colors and textures.
- Use decorative baskets to enhance the visual appeal.
- Hang baskets at different heights for a layered look.
General Tips for a Beautiful and Functional Greenhouse
Pathways: Keep walkways clear and wide enough for easy access.
Shelving: Utilize wall-mounted shelves for additional planting space.
Lighting: Incorporate fairy lights or LED strips for a cozy ambiance.
Color Coordination: Choose pots and containers in complementary colors for a cohesive look.
Organization: Keep tools and supplies neatly organized to maintain a tidy environment.
By integrating grow towers and hanging baskets, you can dramatically increase the productivity of your greenhouse, regardless of its size. These vertical gardening techniques not only maximize space but also add layers of visual interest, creating a lush and vibrant growing environment. With the right plants, materials, and a touch of creativity, your greenhouse can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
