4 steps to a clean, healthy greenhouse

The cleaner your greenhouse is, the healthier the plants will be. Dust, debris and clutter are magnets for insects, disease and harmful micro-organisms. Dirty windows block the sun’s rejuvenating light. Following these simple guidelines will ensure a healthy environment for your plants.

• The purpose of dusting plants is to remove fungal spores (such as mould and powdery mildews) and spider mites. Hosing tends to unsettle and spread dust.
• An easier and more effective method is to vacuum them. Use a hand-held vacuum with a dusting attachment.
• This works best on sturdy leaves that you can hold in your hand while you quickly whisk the brush over the surface.
• Do this once a year to halt the growth of plant predators.

• Piles of dead plants, stacks of dirty pots and sacks spilling over with potting mix can all be places for insects and micro-organisms to grow.
• Remove clutter regularly.
• Try not to pile it next to the greenhouse. Either get rid of it or store it in a shed or garage.
• Dead plant material is the worst offender. Purge dead plants and routinely pick up dead leaves.

• Keep your greenhouse weed-free to get rid of yet another source of food for insects and bacteria.
• Weeds also boost a greenhouse's humidity level, which will make conditions even friendlier for disease and pests.
• Keep a sack of hydrated lime on hand (but don't clutter up the greenhouse with it). Sprinkle it under benches and in corners to deter weed growth. It lasts for a long time and is non-toxic to humans.
• You can buy hydrated lime at your hardware store or local garden centre. Never use herbicides in your greenhouse.

• Do it, at least once a year, when you have the least amount of living plants in your greenhouse or before you bring in those new seeds or seedlings to get growing for spring transplanting.
• Your goal is to keep the glass or polyurethane as clear as possible, as well as to kill any harmful microbial growth on the inner surface.
• Use a mild dishwashing liquid, as it not only loosens dirt but also has ingredients that break up proteins and fats of bacteria and fungi.
• Depending on the size of your greenhouse, either put the dishwashing liquid in a hose-attachment sprayer or mix it with water in a clean spray bottle.
• Rinse by spraying with the garden hose or wiping down with clean water and a sponge.