Let the Fresh Air in
Solexx® panels deliver maximum soft, diffused light to plants enclosed in greenhouse structures. Lest we forget that plants also need fresh air. Proper ventilation prevents diseases, reduces overheating and releases excess humidity. For best results, air should circulate evenly through small greenhouse spaces during the growing season. Cross ventilation can be achieved by placing base vents close to the greenhouse floor coupled with a large vent or exhaust fan positioned on the back wall. This technique forces fresh air into the greenhouse and releases stale air up and out the back. Vents can be closed in winter to save on heating costs.  Read more...

Millions of gardeners consider the winter months to be a quiet and desolate time in the greenhouse. However, there is no reason a great gardener shouldn’t enjoy the cold weather with winter crops. Even during the coldest months of the year, gardeners can plant winter crops to enjoy colorful and delicious plants. Depending on if you live in a harsh winter climate or not, you may even be able to grow a multitude of plants even without a heated greenhouse.  Read more...

A seedling heat mat is a useful tool many avid gardeners use to help their seeds germinate more successfully. For many types of seeds, the warmer temperatures the seedling heat mats create are vital to proper germination. Most gardeners agree these gardening heat mats allow seeds to germinate and thrive in half of the time they typically would, without a mat. In addition, some gardeners even feel the plants that begin on heat mat are stockier and healthier overall.  Read more...

Green the Grounds in Oregon

It is fantastic to see that the White House is starting their own green movement. Wouldn’t it be a novel idea if every state capital building had a vegetable garden gracing its front yard to further spread the movement throughout this great nation?  Read more...

Interested in starting up a garden in your community or school?
Gardenburger is offering $1,000 – $10,000 grants to plant gardens.
The application deadline is May 15, 2009.

http://www.gardenburger.com/Grants.aspx

Avid gardeners spend all winter daydreaming about the first signs of Spring, as it often means they can once again return to their beloved gardening activities. Spring gardening is an event many people look forward to, but good gardeners understand getting too impatient in the garden and doing certain gardening tasks too early can be harmful to a thriving yard. However, there are a few jobs those interested in Spring gardening can dive into without worry.  Read more...

Cleaning Rituals Exposed

Clutter Removal
After covering the greenhouse with the new Solexx panels, it quickly became a haven for over-wintering plants through the snow covered drifts of December. A myriad of tools, supplies, books, pots, and bird seed were clumsily stacked high and piled in corners. Tropical plants crowded and jammed the floor covered in frost cloth. Plants were moved onto the patio and the spring ritual of cleansing began.  Read more...

Many gardening magazines and websites rave about Smart Pots, but few home gardeners understand what the big deal is. While most gardeners use hard plastic pots for growing, these new innovative pots are quickly taking the place of the traditional plastic and clay potting jars. If you’re interested in knowing more about Smart Pots, take a look at these Smart Pot FAQS to get a better idea of what all of the hoopla is really about.  Read more...

Why Plastic Greenhouse Covering?

There are many benefits of having your own PVC greenhouse, and it isn’t all that difficult to get one up and running by using a simple frame and some sheets of plastic. It is the plastic that is responsible for maintaining the heat levels inside a greenhouse. The plastic creates a warm environment that heats up when the sun shines. Depending on the insulation value of the plastic, you can grow a variety of plants, regardless of the season outside.  Read more...