One Greenhouse Problem Solved

One Greenhouse Problem Solved

I know it’s obnoxious to whine about the brevity of our growing season, especially as the earth heats up. But it’s a fact of life up here that May can freeze new leaves on maples so they resemble wilted seaweed and September can bring frost just as you are picking your first marble sized tomatillo. So we are talking three months of more or less crop friendly weather. It’s perfectly true that if I stuck to the plants God meant me to grow, rhubarb and lichen, there would be no problem. However, I’m afraid gardening is about hope and promise, not about sticking to the rules. Even wise gardeners try to grow scrumptious plants from warmer zones in the mad hope that they harbor some wedge of tropical microclimate on their north-faced land.

There is also the issue of seed starting. Some people are consistently solicitous of their seedlings’s needs. They remember to water, they don’t leave the flat outside in the snowplow’s path. Alas, I am not one of those people. I’m very glad there is no DSS patrolling for plant neglect.

Obviously, what we need is a greenhouse. Actually, what we need more is heat in our own east wing, forget the plants. Any loose money will be going toward insulation.

I can’t recall where I read about the solution to these dilemmas, but it’s wonderful: mini greenhouses made from gallon plastic milk jugs.

Use the more translucent, rather than the opaque jug. Cut the jug midway up, around three sides, leaving one side as hinge. Poke some holes in the bottom for drainage. Add potting soil, seeds and water. Re-close the jug, taping the open sides closed with duct tape. This does not have to be a tight seal. Two pieces of tape will suffice. You just want to prevent the seeds from drying out. Leave the plastic lid off the top of the jug. Be sure to label your greenhouse with its contents. Water when you think of it.

Your greenhouse will retain moisture, endure temperature variations with grace, and produce seedlings reliably. When it’s time to harden the seedlings off, pull off the tape and leave the “roof” open, remembering to water more regularly. Transplant into your garden when ready. Gloat quietly. Pictures below.