February is often considered the month when the garden season slowly begins to come to life. For lovers of growing vegetables, this is the ideal time to take advantage of the benefits of a greenhouse and plant the first seeds that hold the hope of a rich spring harvest. A greenhouse transforms the cold winter months into a suitable environment that supports the germination and growth of young plants. Whether you have a small balcony in your apartment or a large garden, with a little care you can start growing fast-growing vegetables in February.
Advantages of a greenhouse for growing vegetables from February
A greenhouse is a great compromise between a classic flower bed and a full-fledged greenhouse. Thanks to the cover with glass or polycarbonate sheets, an increased temperature is created inside, which accelerates the germination process and allows plants to be grown even when outdoor temperatures still drop below zero. This protection easily withstands morning frosts, which could traditionally damage it, and it also saves space, which will be especially appreciated by owners of balconies or smaller gardens.
Materials such as wood supplemented with old windows are easy to obtain and by using polycarbonate you guarantee not only hail resistance but also optimal protection against UV radiation. For those who prefer simplicity, there is also a wide range of ready-made greenhouses available that can be easily placed and started growing.
When and how to start planting in a greenhouse?
Using a greenhouse, it is possible to sow seeds as early as February, which significantly extends the growing season. Suitable species include, for example, fast-germinating radishes, various types of lettuce, but also carrots, butternut squash or spring onions. A greenhouse also serves as an ideal place to pre-grow more heat-loving vegetables such as peppers, tomatoes or kohlrabi, so that they have a head start in growth after being transferred to the outdoor bed.
During colder nights, it is advisable to cover the greenhouse with straw or a blanket, which will provide heat and protect the young plants from freezing. As soon as temperatures start to rise, it is necessary to gradually ventilate and harden off the seedlings so that they get used to the outdoor conditions.
Ideas for growing and caring for vegetables in a greenhouse
The use of a greenhouse is not limited to growing vegetables; manufacturers such as SEMENACZ, Moravoseed or Semo offer seeds and substrates adapted specifically for growing in these conditions. For quality growth, it is also advisable to supplement the soil with natural fertilizers from Substral or AgroBio Opava, which support healthy plant development.
Proper watering is essential – even in the winter months, the soil in the greenhouse should be kept moist, but not soggy. For inspiration and expert tips on proper irrigation, we recommend reading the article on majowo.cz.
To increase comfort at work and long-term use, it is also practical to purchase equipment from brands such as Nohel Garden or Plastia, which will ensure a high-quality and functional greenhouse with a long service life. With the help of AGRO CS and Jiffy products, you can also ensure that seedlings will have optimal conditions from sowing to transplanting.
How to choose the ideal place and ensure care for the greenhouse
The place for the greenhouse should be sunny, preferably near the southern wall of the house, which provides not only enough daylight, but also shelter from cold winds that can damage young plants. Suitable location will significantly affect the success of the harvest and the overall vitality of vegetables.
Regularly checking the condition of the vegetables and their environment is key – removing dead leaves prevents the spread of diseases and pests that can reduce yields. If the greenhouse remains unused after the season, it is recommended to loosen the soil and carry out disinfection, which will promote a healthy start for the next year.
