Starting a garden can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to growing your own food or flowers. But if you have access to a greenhouse, you’ve got a huge head start. Greenhouses give you a controlled space to learn and experiment, and they let you garden a little longer through the seasons. Whether you dream of fresh tomatoes or a patch of colorful blooms, here’s how to start strong.
Pick the Right Greenhouse for Your Space
Before you can grow anything, you need the right kind of greenhouse. For beginners, small and simple is the way to go. A pop-up greenhouse or cold frame can give you a taste of what greenhouse gardening is like without the commitment of a permanent structure. If you have a little more space and want to invest, a walk-in greenhouse can give you more room to expand.
Think about location. Your greenhouse should get plenty of sunlight and have access to water. Good drainage is also important, so avoid placing it in a low, soggy spot. The easier it is to get to your greenhouse, the more likely you are to use it regularly.
Choose Beginner-Friendly Plants
Not all plants are created equal when you’re just starting out. Go for plants that are forgiving and grow quickly. Herbs like basil, cilantro, and mint are great choices. Salad greens such as lettuce and spinach grow fast and don’t take up much room. Tomatoes, peppers, and marigolds are also beginner favorites.
At Howell’s, we got our start with greenhouse growing back in 1994. One of our first crops was Strawflowers and Statice—easy to grow and perfect for drying. They’re a great choice if you want something low-maintenance but rewarding.
Set Up Your Growing Space
Soil is everything. Use a good quality potting mix rather than digging up dirt from your yard. It drains better and is less likely to carry pests. Use containers that have drainage holes, and don’t forget to put trays underneath to catch excess water.
You don’t need a ton of tools to start. A watering can, trowel, and a pair of gloves will do the trick. Label your plants so you remember what’s what, and keep an eye out for signs of over- or under-watering.
Master Daily and Seasonal Care
Caring for your greenhouse garden means forming smart habits and staying flexible. Here’s how to handle daily tasks and seasonal shifts in the Midwest.
Water Wisely
It can be tempting to water every time you walk by, but most plants like to dry out a bit between waterings. Stick your finger into the soil—if it’s dry an inch down, it’s time to water.
Keep It Clean
A tidy greenhouse is a healthy one. Pull out weeds, remove dead leaves, and wipe down surfaces to keep mold and pests at bay.
Adjust with the Seasons
In the spring, use your greenhouse to start seeds early. In summer, open vents or doors to prevent overheating. In the fall, you can keep plants going longer than you could outside. During winter, you might use the space to protect potted plants from freezing.
Learn, Adjust, and Have Fun
Every gardener makes mistakes—it’s part of the process. Keep a notebook or use your phone to track what you planted, when you watered, and how things are going. This helps you learn what works for your space and plants.
Get inspired by visiting local greenhouses. At Howell’s, our greenhouses are full of ideas and plants during seasonal events. Come see what’s growing, chat with our team, and maybe even cuddle a goat or two.
Ready to Get Growing?
Starting a garden from a greenhouse is one of the best ways to learn the ropes. Begin with simple setups and easy plants, take care of your space, and enjoy the journey. Whether your goal is fresh veggies or a vase full of flowers, it all starts with one plant.
Need a little inspiration? Come visit Howell’s Greenhouse and Pumpkin Patch! Explore our greenhouses, get ideas for your own setup, and chat with our friendly team. We’d love to help you get growing. Call us at 515-981-0863 to plan your visit or ask questions!
