Methods for Sun Protection in Greenhouses: 6 Techniques to Preserve Your Plants, Preventing Sunburned Leaves
In the world of gardening, a well-shaded greenhouse is essential for maintaining a healthy and thriving environment for plants. With the summer months approaching, it's time to consider effective and affordable shading solutions for your greenhouse. Here's a guide to help you implement these options.
## Affordable Shading Methods
### 1. **Shade Netting**
Shade netting is a cost-effective and easy-to-install solution for greenhouse shading. It reduces heat gain by blocking sunlight and comes in various densities, allowing you to control the amount of light reaching your plants. Simply drape the netting over the greenhouse frame and secure it with clips or ropes.
### 2. **Shade Paint**
Shade paint, also known as whitewash, is another budget-friendly option. By applying a specialized shade paint to the greenhouse glass, you can reduce sunlight intensity without totally blocking light, allowing you to still grow plants that require partial sunlight. It's important to check compatibility with your greenhouse material before application.
### 3. **Fast-Growing Climbing Plants**
Fast-growing climbing plants like Wisteria offer a natural and cost-effective shading solution. Train these plants over a simple structure near your greenhouse to create natural shade during peak sun hours. With proper care, these plants can be trained to cover the greenhouse during the hottest parts of the day.
### Additional Quick Fix
In case of an emergency or immediate need for shade, a large tarpaulin sheet can serve as a temporary solution. Secure it with ropes or clips to prevent it from blowing away.
These methods are not only budget-friendly but also versatile, allowing you to control the amount of sunlight your greenhouse receives throughout the day.
Custom-made shades are also available for greenhouses, designed to maintain the traditional aesthetic of a greenhouse. Companies like Gabriel Ash offer internal roller blinds that fit their greenhouses, enabling shading and temperature regulation. Roller blinds with suction cups are available for easy attachment to greenhouse windows, while manual internal shade fitting is also an option.
Sophie King, the new Gardens Editor who joined the platform team in June 2024, will be sharing the latest garden trends and growing hacks for every space, from herbaceous borders to balconies. As the summer heat rises, remember to shade your greenhouse to protect your plants and ensure a bountiful harvest.
Implementing shade netting or shade paint in your greenhouse can help regulate the amount of sunlight reaching your plants, creating a healthier environment without breaking your budget. Alternatively, fast-growing climbing plants like Wisteria can offer a natural and cost-effective way to create shade, especially during the summer months.
