Key Takeaways -

• Greenhouses provide a controlled environment to grow vegetables year-round, including tender plants.
• Choosing the right greenhouse and using proper planting techniques maximise space and yields.
• Regular maintenance, good ventilation, and pest control are essential for healthy crops.
• Starting young plants in a greenhouse gives them a strong start before planting outdoors.

Growing vegetables in a greenhouse lets you enjoy fresh produce all year, no matter the weather. While each vegetable has different needs, a greenhouse provides the warmth and protection plants need to thrive in the UK.

This article highlights 13 vegetables that grow well in a greenhouse environment, with simple tips for each one. You’ll learn which outdoor crops are best for each season and how to make the most of your greenhouse space.

Keep reading to find out how to grow delicious vegetables in your own greenhouse. With a little care, you can enjoy a continuous harvest throughout the year.

#1 Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a popular choice for greenhouse growing from spring to autumn, with cherry, Roma, and beefsteak varieties being ideal. To support healthy growth, train plants using canes or strings to keep them upright.

Consistent watering is crucial to prevent blossom end rot, while proper ventilation helps avoid humidity-related issues like blight. Tomato plants thrive in warmth and sunlight, so ensure they receive plenty of both.

Be on the lookout for common problems, such as pests, splitting fruit, or diseases, and address them quickly to maintain a bountiful harvest.

#2 Peppers and Chillies

Peppers and chillies thrive in greenhouses during spring and summer, with popular varieties including bell peppers, jalapeños, and cayenne. To ensure consistent growth, keep temperatures above 13°C and provide even watering to maintain soil moisture.

Supporting plants with stakes or a trellis helps prevent them from bending or breaking under the weight of fruit. Good airflow is essential to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Watch for common issues like aphids and low fruit production, which can occur if temperatures drop too low.

With the right care, you’ll enjoy a tasty and colourful harvest.

#3 Cucumbers

Cucumbers grow well in greenhouses from late spring to summer, with mini cucumbers and specific greenhouse varieties being ideal choices. To make the most of limited space, train vines to grow upward using trellises or supports. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Good air circulation is crucial to prevent powdery mildew, a common issue in humid environments. Regularly check the plants for signs of disease and maintain steady watering to keep them healthy. With proper care, cucumbers can produce an abundant and delicious harvest.

#4 Aubergines

Aubergines thrive in greenhouses from late spring to summer, with Black Beauty and Patio Baby being excellent choices. These plants love warmth and sunlight, so ensure they get plenty of both for optimal growth. Regularly feeding with a potassium-rich fertiliser will support healthy fruit production.

To minimise the risk of diseases, avoid overcrowding and allow good airflow between plants. Be on the lookout for common issues, such as spider mites and poor fruit set, and address them promptly. With the right care, aubergines can produce a delicious and bountiful harvest.

#5 Melons

Melons are a great choice for greenhouse growing during the summer, with cantaloupe and honeydew being popular varieties. To support healthy growth, provide sturdy support for the vines to prevent damage as fruits develop.

Melons thrive in warm temperatures and high humidity, so maintain these conditions for optimal results. Since pollination can be tricky in greenhouses, manually pollinating the flowers can improve the fruit set.

Watch out for common issues like powdery mildew and poor pollination, and address them promptly. With proper care, melons can produce sweet, juicy harvests.

#6 Courgettes

Courgettes are perfect for greenhouse growing during the summer, with Black Beauty and Golden Zucchini being popular varieties. These plants need plenty of space to spread, so ensure they aren't overcrowded. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root issues.

Harvest courgettes regularly to encourage further growth and prevent them from becoming too large. Be mindful of common problems like powdery mildew, which can be avoided with good airflow and proper watering practices.

With the right care, courgettes can deliver a high-yielding and delicious harvest.

#7 Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, kale, and Swiss chard thrive in greenhouses from autumn to spring, with Little Gem, Butterhead, and Rocket being great choices. These plants prefer cooler temperatures, so avoid excessive heat for the best results.

Regular watering is essential to keep the leaves tender and prevent wilting. Harvest leaves frequently to encourage continuous growth and a steady supply of fresh greens. Keep an eye out for common issues like aphids, and take care to avoid poor germination by maintaining optimal temperatures.

With proper care, leafy greens are easy to grow and highly rewarding.

#8 Root Vegetables

Root vegetables like carrots, beetroot, and radishes grow well in greenhouses from autumn to early spring, with Nantes carrots, Chioggia beets, and Cherry Belle radishes being excellent choices. For optimal results, thin seedlings early to give roots space to develop properly.

Use deep, well-draining soil to support healthy root growth, and maintain consistent watering to prevent roots from splitting. Avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to stunted growth, and ensure good soil drainage to prevent rot.

With these simple steps, you can enjoy a steady harvest of crisp and flavourful root vegetables.

#9 Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a great greenhouse crop for autumn to winter, with varieties like Diablo and Brigitte F1 being ideal. Start the plants indoors, then transplant them outside or into larger containers for a winter harvest. Stake tall plants to prevent them from toppling over in strong winds.

Brussels sprouts develop a sweeter flavour when harvested after the first frost. Keep an eye out for common issues like cabbage worms and aphids, and take action early to protect your crop. With proper care, these nutrient-rich vegetables can provide a delicious winter harvest.

#10 Herbs

Herbs like basil, parsley, mint, thyme, and sage thrive in greenhouses year-round, with sweet basil, curly parsley, and common mint being popular choices. To keep herbs healthy, ensure good airflow to prevent fungal diseases and keep the soil consistently moist without waterlogging.

Harvesting herbs frequently encourages new growth and maintains a steady supply of fresh leaves. Be mindful of common issues like powdery mildew and root rot, addressing them promptly with proper care.

With the right conditions, greenhouse-grown herbs can add flavour and fragrance to your cooking all year.

#11 Microgreens

Microgreens are a fantastic year-round greenhouse crop, with varieties like radish, sunflower, and pea shoots being popular choices. Grow them in shallow trays with good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Keep the soil consistently moist, and ensure the microgreens receive bright light for healthy growth.

Harvest when they reach 2-4 inches tall for the best flavour and texture. Be cautious of common issues like overwatering, which can lead to mould growth. With minimal space and effort, microgreens provide a quick and nutrient-packed addition to your meals.

#12 Squashes

Squashes like pumpkins and butternut squash thrive in greenhouses from late spring to autumn, with varieties like Butternut and Delicata being great options. These plants need plenty of space for their spreading vines, so plan accordingly. Keep the soil consistently moist to support healthy growth.

If growing vertically, use slings to support the weight of heavy fruits. Watch out for common issues like powdery mildew, which can be prevented with good airflow, and ensure proper pollination for better yields. With the right care, squashes can produce a plentiful and tasty harvest.

#13 Sweetcorn

Sweetcorn grows well in greenhouses from spring to summer, with Sweet Nugget and Golden Bantam being popular varieties. For a strong start, sow seeds indoors and transplant them outside once they’re established, if needed.

Planting sweetcorn in blocks rather than rows improves pollination and leads to fuller cobs. Harvest when the kernels are plump and milky for the best flavour. Keep an eye out for common issues like poor pollination and pests, and take action early.

With proper care, sweetcorn can provide a deliciously sweet and satisfying harvest.

Choosing the Right Greenhouse for Your Vegetables

Choosing the right greenhouse for growing vegetables depends on your needs and budget. Heated greenhouses provide year-round growing opportunities but can be costly, while unheated greenhouses are more affordable but best suited for seasonal crops.

Consider the size of your greenhouse based on available space—small greenhouses are great for beginners but require clever use of vertical space, shelving, and hanging pots to maximise growing potential. Large greenhouses offer more room for diverse crops but need more maintenance.

Selecting the right type and size helps you achieve the best results for your gardening goals.

Tips for Greenhouse Vegetable Growing

Soil and Planting Basics

High-quality soil and compost are essential for healthy vegetable growth. Consider using containers, grow bags, or planting in greenhouse borders to control soil quality. Rotate crops each season to prevent soil-borne diseases and maintain nutrient balance.

Proper planning helps reduce disease risk and boost yields.

Temperature and Humidity

Maintaining warm temperatures is vital for most greenhouse crops. Use heaters or fleece covers during colder weather months. Proper ventilation is equally important to prevent humidity-related issues like mould and mildew. Open vents or doors regularly to keep the air fresh and balanced.

Mastering Watering and Irrigation

Install simple irrigation systems like drip lines to ensure even watering. Avoid common mistakes like overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Check soil moisture regularly and water early in the day for best results. Consistent watering promotes healthy, productive plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Plant These Vegetables on a Sunny Windowsill Indoors?

Yes, many vegetables can be started on a sunny windowsill indoors, especially herbs, lettuce, and young plants like tomatoes and peppers. Ensure they receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily and maintain consistent watering.

Once they are strong enough, they can be transferred to a greenhouse or outdoor garden for further growth.

What Are the Best Hardy Plants to Grow in a Greenhouse Year-Round?

Hardy plants like kale, Swiss chard, and spinach thrive in greenhouses year-round due to their tolerance for cooler temperatures. Root vegetables like carrots and beets are also great choices. These crops can handle seasonal temperature changes and continue to produce throughout the year.

Can I Start Young Plants in a Greenhouse Before Planting Them Outside?

Yes, starting young plants in a greenhouse provides them with a head start in a protected environment. This approach ensures that plants are strong and healthy before being transplanted outside. It’s especially useful for crops like tomatoes and peppers that need warmer conditions early in the season.

How Can I Prevent Pests from Damaging Summer Greenhouse Crops?

To protect your summer crops from pests, especially during early summer, keep the greenhouse clean by removing dead leaves and plant debris. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs to control aphids and other pests naturally.

Use sticky traps to catch flying insects and ensure proper ventilation to reduce humidity, which can attract pests. Regularly inspect plants for signs of damage and address issues promptly to maintain healthy crops.

What Are the Benefits of Growing Vegetables in a Controlled Environment?

A controlled environment allows for year-round vegetable production by managing temperature, humidity, and light levels. It reduces the risk of pests and diseases, provides protection from harsh weather, and promotes consistent plant growth. This results in higher yields and healthier plants.

How Often Should I Fertilise Vegetables Growing in a Greenhouse?

Vegetables in a greenhouse should be fertilised every 2-4 weeks, depending on the growth stage and crop type. Use a balanced fertiliser for leafy crops and a potassium-rich fertiliser for fruiting plants like tomatoes. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid over-fertilisation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, growing vegetables in a greenhouse allows you to enjoy fresh produce year-round, from hardy plants to tender plants like tomatoes and peppers.

By creating a controlled environment, using good planting techniques, and staying on top of maintenance, you can maximise yields and keep crops healthy.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, a greenhouse opens up a world of possibilities for growing a variety of vegetables throughout the seasons.