Growing Herbs in a Greenhouse: The Complete Guide

Growing herbs in a greenhouse allows gardeners to extend the growing season, protect tender plants, and grow a wider variety of herbs. With the right set up and care, greenhouses create the perfect environment for herbs to thrive.

Benefits of Growing Herbs in a Greenhouse

There are many advantages to growing herbs in a greenhouse:

• Lengthen the growing season Start plants earlier in spring and continue growing later into fall, This allows for harvesting more crops per year,

• Grow heat-loving plants: Maintain warmer temperatures for basil, cilantro, and other herbs that need consistent heat.

• Overwinter less hardy plants Keep rosemary, sage, thyme and other perennials alive through frigid winters

• Control moisture: Prevent too much rain from rotting roots and provide water during droughts.

• Block pests: Keep out caterpillars, snails, rodents and other critters that damage plants.

• Protect from weather: Shield plants from hail, heavy winds, frost and other hazardous conditions.

• Prevent soil erosion: Stop soil runoff during heavy rainstorms.

• Garden year-round: Enjoy the relaxing hobby even when it’s cold out.

Setting Up a Greenhouse for Herbs

Proper set up is crucial for getting the most out of a herb greenhouse. Here are some key steps:

• Install an automatic misting system to maintain consistent moisture. Herbs are very susceptible to drying out.

• Add shade cloth if needed. Too much direct sun will burn plants.

• Use containers and raised beds for better drainage and to prevent overwatering.

• Place taller plants along north wall to avoid shading smaller herbs.

• Install fans for airflow and preventing fungus/pests. Stagnant air causes problems.

• Use bottom heating pads for heat-loving herbs like basil.

• Cover beds with horticultural fleece or row cover to retain warmth.

• Insulate the greenhouse to maintain desired temperatures.

Best Herbs to Grow in a Greenhouse

Many culinary herbs thrive in greenhouse conditions. Some top picks include:

• Basil: Grows vigorously with heat, humidity and rich soil. Pinch flowers to prolong harvest.

• Parsley: Appreciates protection from cold. Cut often to encourage new growth.

• Chives: Tolerates partial shade. Produces all season long.

• Oregano: Likes warmth and well-drained soil. Cut back after flowering.

• Thyme: Does well in containers. Needs excellent drainage to avoid root rot.

• Sage: Grows bushy with shelter from wind and cold. Tolerates some shade.

• Dill: Quickly bolts in heat so greenhouse extends harvest period.

• Cilantro: Lasts longer with consistent moisture and warm temperatures.

• Mint: Invasive so contain in pots. Thrives in greenhouse humidity and warmth.

Caring for Greenhouse Herbs

While greenhouses provide ideal growing conditions, herbs still need proper care and maintenance:

• Water when top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering.

• Feed with liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during growing season.

• Prune and harvest regularly to encourage new growth.

• Monitor for pests like aphids and treat promptly.

• Check soil pH periodically and amend if needed. Most herbs prefer slightly alkaline soil.

• Repot rootbound plants in early spring. Containers dry out faster than in-ground plants.

• Turn pots occasionally for even sunlight exposure.

• Open vents to balance temperature and humidity levels.

• Add heating pads, grow lights and humidity trays as needed.

Choosing a Greenhouse for Herbs

There are many greenhouse options to fit any budget and space:

• Freestanding polycarbonate or glass greenhouses provide the most growing space.

• Lean-to greenhouses attach to a building for support.

• Kit greenhouses come with all materials and instructions for DIY assembly.

• Mini greenhouses and cold frames are great for small yards.

• Indoor grow tents work well for apartment herb gardens.

• Cover existing raised beds with hoop house plastic sheeting or row covers.

• Upcycle old windows and doors into a DIY greenhouse.

Consider factors like size, budgets, sunlight and ventilation when selecting the ideal greenhouse.

Growing herbs in a greenhouse allows for an extended harvest of lush, flavorful herbs that would otherwise perish in cold weather. With preparation and proper care, greenhouses enable gardeners to expand their palettes of culinary herbs. The benefits of protection from weather, pests and disease make greenhouse gardening a great option for any herb enthusiast.