Winter Greenhouse Gardening: Keep Growing Through the Cold Months
Just because the temperatures drop doesn't mean your growing season has to end. Winter greenhouse gardening opens up a world of possibilities—from fresh salads on your plate to getting a head start on spring transplants.
What You Can Grow in Winter
Winter doesn't mean empty shelves. These crops thrive in cooler temperatures:
- Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, lettuce, arugula, Swiss chard
- Root vegetables: Carrots, beets, radishes, turnips
- Herbs: Parsley, cilantro, dill, chives
- Alliums: Green onions, garlic (for spring harvest)
Many of these actually taste sweeter after a frost—the cold converts starches to sugars!
Getting Started: Winter Preparation Checklist
Before the first frost hits:
- Insulate — Add bubble wrap to walls, use thermal mass (water jugs, stones)
- Heating — Decide on your heat source
- Ventilation — Don't seal it up completely; airflow prevents mold
- Lighting — Shorter days mean supplemental light helps
- Check seals — Fix any gaps where cold air leaks in
Heating Options for Winter Greenhouses
Looking to keep your greenhouse warm? Check out our Greenhouse Heating Guide for detailed options.
| Method | Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solar (passive) | $ | Free to run | Weather dependent |
| Electric heater | $$ | Reliable, controllable | Electricity cost |
| Propane | $$ | Portable | Fuel cost, ventilation needed |
| Hot water/thermal | $$$ | Even heat distribution | Complex installation |
Temperature Targets
- Cool-season crops: 45-55°F (7-13°C)
- Warm-season seedlings: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Frost protection: Keep above 32°F (0°C)
Pro Tips for Success
- Water less frequently — Plants transpire less in cooler weather
- Monitor humidity — Winter = mold risk. Ventilate on sunny days
- Use row covers — Extra layer of frost protection inside
- Start seeds early — January-February for spring transplants
Conclusion
Winter greenhouse gardening isn't just possible—it's rewarding. Fresh greens in January, early spring seedlings ready to go, and the simple joy of green life even in the dead of winter.
Ready to start your greenhouse journey? See our Beginners Greenhouse Checklist for everything you need.
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