Hot and Humid Conditions
Greenhouses are often treated as multipurpose storage spaces, especially when they are not filled with plants. However, the hot and humid conditions within a greenhouse can damage goods and harm plants. Seeds and bird food are particularly susceptible to mold, while pesticides may degrade in high temperatures. Paint cans pose safety risks, and paper products deteriorate quickly. Non-rust-resistant tools corrode in the moist environment.
- Sick or infested plants
- Pesticides and garden chemicals
- Seeds and bird food
- Paint cans and solvents
- Paper, cardboard, and other moisture-sensitive materials
- Non-rust-resistant tools
Greenhouse Environment
A greenhouse can be a gardener’s best friend, a place to nurture seedlings, propagate plants, and keep delicate species safe from harsh outdoor conditions. However, the environment within a greenhouse is not ideal for storing certain items. The lack of climate control means that anything left inside is at the mercy of seasonal changes. The hot and humid conditions can also be home to pests and diseases.
- Most greenhouses are not climate-controlled
- Greenhouses are prone to fluctuating temperatures
- Fluctuating temperatures can lead to pests and disease spread
Protecting Your Plants
Sick or infested plants can quickly compromise the health of every other plant inside the greenhouse. It is essential to inspect and treat outdoor plants thoroughly before introducing them into a controlled greenhouse environment.
“Don’t bring a struggling plant into the greenhouse. It can spread disease and pests quickly, and may even kill your healthy plants.”
— Greenhouse gardening expert
Pesticides and Garden Chemicals
Pesticides require specific storage conditions to remain safe and effective. Most should be kept in a dry, well-ventilated area where temperature fluctuations are minimal. Greenhouses are not suitable for storing pesticides due to the risk of overheating and degradation.
Seeds and Bird Food
Seeds, whether for birds or your garden, do not do well in the damp, changeable conditions of a greenhouse. Humidity can lead to mold or premature germination, and fluctuating temperatures may reduce germination rates for your garden seeds. Rodents may also be attracted to seeds in the greenhouse.
Paint Cans and Solvents
Paint cans and solvents can pose safety risks in the greenhouse environment. Paint can become unusable if it freezes or overheats, and volatile fumes can build up in poorly ventilated areas.
Paper, Cardboard, and Other Moisture-Sensitive Materials
Storing paper products such as seed catalogues, cardboard boxes, or plant trays in a greenhouse is not advisable. Moisture can lead to mold growth, disintegration, and an unsightly mess.
Non-Rust-Resistant Tools
Non-rust-resistant tools can corrode in the moist environment of a greenhouse. Metal tools that aren’t rust-resistant will quickly begin to corrode, while wooden handles may swell, crack, or splinter due to temperature swings and moisture.
Conclusion
While it may be tempting to use your greenhouse as an all-purpose storage zone, not everything belongs inside. By understanding what to keep out, you can protect your gardening supplies, improve plant health, and make your greenhouse a more efficient, functional space year-round. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your greenhouse remains a safe and healthy environment for your plants and gardening supplies.
