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    Cleaning your Greenhouse

    If you aren’t lucky enough to be buying a brand new greenhouse, then it's only a matter of time before you have to clean out the one already own. To be honest, cleaning a greenhouse on a cold winter's day is not the most pleasant of tasks but it has to be done. Over the year the glass gets dirty and possibly has algae growing on it which will reduce the light that gets through by as much as 10%.

    The other reason to thoroughly clean the house is to kill off the pests and problems that are overwintering inside, sheltered from the elements.

    Greenhouse Cleaning

    Best time to clean a greenhouse

    The best time for cleaning your greenhouse will be when the crops have finished so the house is empty before you put the overwintering plants indoors to shelter. This will vary but usually we're looking at a fine sunny day between November and February.

    Tools

    If you can run a hosepipe up to your greenhouse the job will be easier and if you have one of the specific greenhouse and conservatory cleaning brushes that connect to a hosepipe easier still. Incidentally, a car cleaning hosepipe brush can step in here. A jet-wash can also be useful but not too much pressure on the glazing please.

    Otherwise it's a bucket of water with a good squirt of dish detergent, a large sponge and a soft broom.

    Use the sponge to get soapy water onto the glass and the broom to scrub (gently!). Start from the top and work down, finishing with clean water with just a spot of detergent which helps avoid streaking on the glass.

    Cleaning the Greenhouse Method

    Jeyes fluid

    Now for the inside which is more important than the outside. Start by emptying out as much as you can. All those pots under the staging and the half bag of compost you popped in there 'just for now'. Take the staging outside if it's removable. Now a good brush down with a soft broom. Get rid of those spider webs and old leaves that had blown behind the staging.An invaluable tool for cleaning the inside is a sprayer. You don't need anything fancy, even those small ones they sell in the pound shop will do the job. Rather than detergent, use Jeyes fluid following the instructions on the tin as to dilution.

    Spray all those nooks and crannies that a greenhouse has, inside the channels is often where pests decide to hide away. Clean the glass with a sponge using the same mix.

    Wash Pots and Staging

    Any pots that are being kept in the greenhouse can be washed now and the staging given a good going over before taking back in.

    Job Done!

    By now you're probably half-soaked and frozen so take yourself in for a hot bath and a mug of warming soup and bask in the pleasure of a job well done that will help you get off to a good start next year free from problems in your greenhouse. (If you are looking to avoid the cleaning stage and get a brand new greenhouse, check out our full range www.greenhousestores.co.uk.

    Greenhouse Cleaning FAQ

    What is the best way to clean a greenhouse?

    The best way to clean a greenhouse involves a thorough approach. Start by removing all plants, pots, and equipment from the structure. Then, sweep or vacuum out any loose debris. Use a gentle soap solution and a soft brush to scrub all surfaces, paying special attention to corners and crevices where pests and diseases can hide. Rinse everything thoroughly with clean water and allow it to air dry completely before returning your plants and equipment.

    Can I jet wash my greenhouse?

    While jet washing might seem like a quick solution, it's not recommended for most greenhouses. The high pressure can damage delicate seals, glazing, and even the frame of your greenhouse. It may also force water into areas that are difficult to dry, potentially leading to mould or rust issues. Instead, opt for gentler cleaning methods that won't risk compromising the structure of your greenhouse.

    Can I use Jeyes Fluid to clean my greenhouse?

    Jeyes Fluid can be effective for cleaning greenhouses, but it must be used with caution. Always dilute it according to the manufacturer's instructions and test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. Be sure to rinse thoroughly after use and allow the greenhouse to air out completely before reintroducing plants. Remember, Jeyes Fluid is a strong disinfectant and can be harmful to plants if not used correctly, so consider gentler alternatives if you're concerned.

    Can I use vinegar to clean a greenhouse?

    Vinegar can be an excellent, eco-friendly option for cleaning your greenhouse. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle for a natural cleaning solution. This mixture is particularly effective at removing algae and mineral deposits. Be sure to rinse surfaces thoroughly after cleaning with vinegar to prevent any residue that might affect your plants. For stubborn stains, you can use vinegar at full strength, but always test on a small area first.

    How do I clean my greenhouse roof?

    Cleaning your greenhouse roof requires care to avoid damage and ensure safety. Use a stable ladder and work with a partner if possible. A long-handled soft brush or sponge mop with a gentle soap solution works well for most roofs. For glass roofs, a squeegee can help achieve a streak-free finish. If your roof is polycarbonate, avoid abrasive materials that might scratch the surface. Always rinse thoroughly with clean water and be mindful of the runoff to protect plants below.

    Can I use bleach to clean my greenhouse?

    Bleach can be used to clean a greenhouse, but it should be done with great care. Always dilute bleach significantly - a solution of one part bleach to ten parts water is usually sufficient. Use it sparingly and ensure excellent ventilation while working. Rinse all surfaces thoroughly after cleaning and allow the greenhouse to air out completely before bringing plants back in. Keep in mind that bleach can be harmful to plants and beneficial soil organisms, so consider less harsh alternatives if possible.

    Copyright © John Harrison 2015

    Greenhouses

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