Whether you plan on growing plants in your greenhouse year-round or shutting it down for the winter months, you may want to consider winterizing it. Winterizing your backyard polycarbonate greenhouse means preparing the structure to withstand harsh winter weather conditions.
If you plan on shutting it down for the season, the actual greenhouse structure can withstand colder temperatures. However, you’ll want to inspect it for any needed repairs that could cause damage and affect future use. Here are some suggestions to winterize your Grandio Greenhouse:
- Inspect and Repair: Before winter arrives, thoroughly inspect the greenhouse for any damage or wear that may compromise its integrity. Repair cracks, leaks, or damaged panels. Ensure that the door and windows seal properly. Grandio Greenhouses® offers a 10-year panel warranty. If you need panels replaced under warranty, allow plenty of time to get them before winter.
- Remove Auto Window Openers: The Auto Opener contains a piston that is sensitive to temperature. This is what allows it to open and close a window when temperatures vary. If allowed to freeze, the piston could get damaged. Before temperatures drop below freezing in your area, remove the auto-openers and replace with the manual openers the windows came with.
- Watering and irrigation: Drain all pipes and watering systems to prevent freezing and bursting.
- Snow removal: If you expect heavy snowfall in your area, it’s important to remove snow from the greenhouse roof to prevent damage. Use a long-handled broom or a snow rake to carefully remove the snow, being cautious not to damage the greenhouse structure.
With just a few more steps, your greenhouse will be ready for wintering growing plants.
- Clean and Sanitize: Clean the greenhouse thoroughly to remove any debris, pests, or disease-causing agents. Sanitize the interior surfaces using a mild bleach solution to minimize the risk of plant diseases during the winter months. Also take the chance to clean the polycarbonate panels for maximum light transmission.
- Watering: Adjust your watering schedule according to the changing needs of the plants during winter. Plants generally require less water during the cold season. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and other moisture-related issues. Consider watering by hand to not risk a burst pipe.
