Winter Greenhouse Check-Up: 7 Things to Do Now for a Thriving Spring

As the winter chill settles in and your garden slows down, your greenhouse shouldn’t be forgotten. Mid-winter is the perfect time to give your growing space a little TLC – not just to protect what’s inside now, but to ensure a healthy, productive burst of growth when spring arrives.

Here’s your 7-step winter greenhouse check-up to keep things ticking along beautifully and prep for the season ahead.

1. Inspect for Damage: Cracks, Tears & Drafts

Start with a full walkaround – inside and out. Check for:

• Cracks or chips in polycarbonate panels

• Tears or sagging in greenhouse cover or plastic

• Gaps in door seals or frames that might be letting cold air in. If you’re using a polytunnel, make sure tension is holding and ropes or bungees haven’t loosened over time.

  
  

👉 Fixing these now can save your plants from frost and help maintain a stable microclimate.

2. Clear Out Weeds and Debris

Weeds don’t always die off in winter – especially under cover. Remove any rogue plants or old growth, as they can harbour pests and disease. Also sweep away:

• Old leaves

• Spilled soil

• Mouldy mulch

These can invite fungal issues or unwanted bugs that will stick around when things heat up again.

Tip: Our weed control mats are great for keeping your greenhouse tidy and low-maintenance year-round.

3. Clean the Panels or Plastic Covering

Give your greenhouse a good wash – inside and out. Use warm soapy water and a soft brush to remove:

• Dirt buildup

• Algae

• Hard water stains

  
  

✨ Clean panels = more sunlight penetration = happier seedlings come spring.

4. Check & Refresh Soil in Pots and Beds

Potting mix and raised beds in your greenhouse might be compacted or depleted. Now’s the time to:

• Top up with compost or aged manure

• Test soil pH if needed

• Remove old roots or dead material

  
  

For containers, consider replacing or rejuvenating the mix completely – especially if it's been used for more than one season.

5. Inspect & Organise Your Equipment

Clean, sharpen and sort tools and supplies so they’re ready to go. Check your:

• Watering cans and hoses for leaks

• Thermometers or hygrometers for accuracy

• Shelving and benches for stability

  
  

Take stock of what you need to replace or upgrade before the rush of spring hits.

6. Plan Your Spring Layout and Seedlings

Use this quiet time to get strategic. Map out:

• What you'll grow and where

• Which crops need the warmest spots

• Companion planting ideas

  Start preparing your seed list, and if you’ve got heating, you could even begin early germination of slow growers (like tomatoes or capsicums).

  
  

🌱 Planning now = confidence later.

7. Consider Installing Shadecloth Early

Yes – even in winter! Adding shadecloth can:

• Reduce wind chill that enters through gaps

• Act as a buffer against frost

• Protect seedlings as light levels begin to rise in late winter. And by spring, you’ll already be one step ahead in controlling excess sun and heat.

  
  

Your Winter Effort Pays Off in Spring 🌿

A winter greenhouse check-up is like hitting “refresh” for your garden. With just a bit of attention now, you’re setting yourself up for a more productive, stress-free growing season.

So, rug up, grab your gloves, and give your greenhouse or polytunnel a little love – your future harvest will thank you.

Need Shadecloth or Greenhouse Gear?

Browse our full range of premium greenhouses and polytunnels, covers, and shadecloths – perfect for all-year-round growing success. Whether you're just getting started or levelling up your setup, we’ve got what you need.