Cleaning a glass greenhouse helps maintain its appearance, allows maximum light to reach your plants, and prevents the spread of diseases. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your glass greenhouse:
Materials Needed:
- A long-handled brush or soft-bristled broom
- Warm water
- Mild detergent (like dish soap) or a specialized greenhouse cleaner
- A sponge or soft cloth
- Hose or pressure washer (optional)
- Squeegee or window scraper
- Disinfectant (for inside cleaning)
- Gardening gloves
- Step ladder (if needed for height)
Steps to Clean the Greenhouse:
- Remove Plants and Loose Items
- Remove all the plants, pots, tools, and other loose items from the greenhouse.
- This will protect your plants and make it easier to clean every corner.
- Sweep the Area
- Sweep the floors and remove debris from shelves, tables, and other surfaces.
- Clean the Glass
- Use a garden hose to rinse off dirt and debris.
- Mix warm water with a mild detergent or a greenhouse-specific cleaner in a bucket.
- Use a long-handled brush or broom to scrub the glass surfaces gently.
- Pay attention to the roof glass and corners where dirt may accumulate.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to avoid soap residue.
- Use a squeegee to remove excess water for a streak-free finish.
- Wipe down interior glass panels using a sponge or soft cloth with soapy water.
- Scrub gently, especially around areas that may harbor mold or algae.
- Rinse with clean water or a damp cloth.
- Clean Frames and Seals
- Wipe down the aluminum or metal frame using a cloth dipped in soapy water.
- Clean rubber seals around the glass panes to ensure they’re in good condition.
- Be gentle to avoid damaging seals or frames.
- Disinfect the Interior
- Use a greenhouse-safe disinfectant to clean the floors, shelves, and interior structures.
- This will help prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
- Allow the disinfected areas to dry completely before bringing plants back in.
- Check for Repairs
- While cleaning, inspect the glass for cracks and check the seals for wear and tear.
- Replace any damaged glass panes or repair seals if needed.
- Reorganize and Refill
- Once the greenhouse is dry and clean, bring your plants and tools back in, reorganizing them as necessary.
Tips:
- Choose a dry, mild day to clean your greenhouse to avoid water spots from rain or heat drying the cleaner too fast.
- Clean the greenhouse at least once or twice yearly to maintain optimal light levels and a healthy growing environment.
Keeping your greenhouse clean will help it last longer and improve the growing conditions for your plants.
Note: Never use a pressure washer to avoid damaging the seals or forcing water inside the greenhouse.