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Posts about:

greenhouse (2)

Donna Balzer and her dog

How to Clear Greenhouse Waste? Tips for Small-Scale Gardeners

Quick Answer:

Clearing greenhouse waste on a small scale involves chopping bulky plants into smaller pieces to speed composting, using tools like a chipper and rodent-proof compost bins such as the Speedibin for faster, pest-free decomposition. When animal assistance isn’t available, this method efficiently manages large volumes of plant debris, turning waste into valuable compost in about six months. Proper waste management not only keeps your greenhouse tidy but also supports sustainable gardening by recycling nutrients back into your soil.

Arnold is always hungry. And some of his favorite foods are the fruits and vegetables I grow in my greenhouse.  He also eats the plants of the tomatoes and squash I grow. He gently pokes around, licking up the small green fruits first and then chomps down on the whole tangled twisted plant.

Donna Balzer in her greenhouse, reading a book.

How Can I Cool Down My Greenhouse Using Shade Cloth?

Quick Answer:

Installing a UV-stabilized shade cloth over your greenhouse in late spring reduces heat buildup, lowers pest pressure, saves water, and protects plants—especially in polycarbonate or glass structures—while offering seasonal flexibility to match changing light and temperature needs.

Benefits of Shade Cloth

I’m sitting in my greenhouse sipping a cool drink as I look outside. With the current heatwave this is positively the coolest spot in the garden right now. But it didn’t use to be that way. Scorched leaves, dry soil and wilted, bolting lettuce used to be the norm.

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Donna's greenhouse

Should I Buy Shade Cloth This Summer? A Greenhouse Gardening Must-Have

Quick Answer:

Should I Buy Shade Cloth This Summer?
Yes—installing shade cloth is a game-changing upgrade that instantly lowers greenhouse temperatures, prevents plant stress, and transforms your space into a productive and enjoyable retreat during hot weather. Shade cloth improves plant health, reduces cooling system strain, and can make your greenhouse a cool midday escape—even at 30°C. Choose 47–70% shade depending on your glazing and exposure, and install before summer heat peaks for optimal results.

Hot Summer Gardening

I had to take a break in the shade. It was over 30 C, the sun was beating down and I was thinking I might be getting heat stroke. So I stepped into my greenhouse to cool down.