Embracing The British Summer

Despite the quintessentially unpredictable British weather, July has come around with more showers than sunshine so far. However, for the enthusiastic gardeners among us, this doesn’t mean our green-thumbed pursuits need to be dampened. In fact, your greenhouse provides the perfect sanctuary for your plants to thrive, even in a wet July!

During these wet days, it is crucial to understand that each plant has unique water requirements. Make sure you’re familiar with the needs of your specific plants to avoid overwatering. Your greenhouse helps to regulate moisture levels, so use that to your advantage to maintain the perfect balance.

When the sun does make an appearance, resulting in high humidity levels outside, it’s essential to ensure adequate airflow inside your greenhouse to prevent the onset of diseases and mold. Our greenhouses are equipped with ventilation systems that you should utilise to reduce excess moisture and provide a healthy environment for your plants.

Grey skies can limit the amount of natural light your plants receive. To counteract this, clean the glass panes of your greenhouse to ensure maximum light penetration. Also, consider rearranging your plants to ensure that those requiring the most light are placed where they can receive it more effectively.

Unfortunately, damp conditions can encourage the proliferation of pests and diseases. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of trouble and take action immediately. Your greenhouse is a controlled environment, which means you can manage these issues more effectively than in an open garden.

Rainwater can leach nutrients from the soil. Ensure your plants are fed with the right fertilisers to compensate for any loss, especially if you’re collecting and using rainwater for irrigation. A well-nourished plant is more resilient to the stress of excessive dampness.

Embrace the wet weather by collecting rainwater, which is better for plants than tap water due to its lack of chlorine and other chemicals. A greenhouse can be easily fitted with guttering systems to channel rainwater into a collection container for later use.

Don’t let the rain keep you from enjoying your gardening. Your greenhouse offers a dry, comfortable place to continue your gardening hobbies. Use this time to plan, pot, prune, and perhaps even start new seedlings that will be ready to transplant when the weather improves.

Although June and July have been extremely wet and unpredictable, it is no reason to put your gardening on hold. With your greenhouse, you’re equipped to face the challenges and turn them into opportunities for a lush, productive garden. By understanding the needs of your plants, ensuring proper ventilation, maximising light, being vigilant about pests and diseases, managing nutrients and making the most of the rain, you can keep your greenhouse flourishing. So, pull on your wellies, enjoy the pitter-patter of rain on the glass and get your hands dirty, your garden awaits!

Remember, every cloud has a silver lining and in this case, it’s the chance to make your greenhouse the highlight of your gardening year, rain or shine!