The Best Fruits That Grow in Spring in a Greenhouse

Spring is a season of rejuvenation and growth, and for greenhouse gardeners, it’s an especially exciting time. With the right setup, you can grow a variety of delicious fruits that thrive during the spring season. Greenhouses offer a controlled environment that can extend growing seasons, protect plants from unpredictable weather, and create ideal conditions for fruit production. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or a beginner, here’s a guide to the best fruits to grow in your greenhouse this spring.

1. Strawberries

Strawberries are one of the most popular fruits to grow in a greenhouse during spring. They’re relatively low maintenance and can yield an abundance of sweet, juicy berries with proper care.

• Why Strawberries Thrive in Spring: Spring provides moderate temperatures and longer daylight hours, both of which are ideal for strawberry plants.
• Greenhouse Tips:
  • Use a well-draining soil mix and ensure proper ventilation to prevent mould and mildew.
  • Consider growing varieties like Albion, Seascape, or Mara des Bois, which are known for their productivity and flavour.
  • Use hanging baskets or tiered planters to maximize space and sunlight exposure.

2. Blueberries

While blueberries are often considered a summer fruit, starting them in spring allows for a strong growing season. Growing them in a greenhouse can help you control soil pH and protect the plants from pests.

• Why Blueberries Thrive in Spring: Blueberry bushes awaken from dormancy in early spring and require cool nights and moderate daytime temperatures.
• Greenhouse Tips:
  • Use acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.
  • Provide consistent watering but avoid over-saturating the roots.
  • Choose compact varieties like ‘Top Hat’ or ‘Jelly Bean’ for greenhouse cultivation.

3. Raspberries

Raspberries can thrive in a greenhouse, where you can extend their growing season and protect them from diseases like rust and blight.

• Why Raspberries Thrive in Spring: The mild temperatures of spring encourage early growth and flowering.
• Greenhouse Tips:
  • Opt for everbearing varieties like Heritage or Autumn Bliss, which produce fruit throughout the growing season.
  • Use trellises or stakes to support the canes.
  • Prune regularly to maintain airflow and encourage new growth.

4. Gooseberries and Currants

Gooseberries and currants are less common but highly rewarding fruits for spring greenhouse cultivation. They’re hardy plants that can adapt well to greenhouse conditions.

• Why They Thrive in Spring: These fruits break dormancy early and benefit from the stable spring conditions in a greenhouse.
• Greenhouse Tips:
  • Use pots or raised beds to control soil conditions.
  • Prune bushes annually to remove old wood and stimulate new growth.
  • Provide moderate watering and good airflow.

5. Citrus Fruits

Citrus trees, including lemons, limes, and oranges, can flourish in a greenhouse, even in regions where outdoor citrus growing is challenging.

• Why Citrus Fruits Thrive in Spring: Spring provides the ideal conditions for citrus trees to bloom and set fruit.
• Greenhouse Tips:
  • Ensure your greenhouse maintains temperatures between 55°F and 85°F.
  • Use well-draining soil and pots with adequate drainage.
  • Fertilize with a balanced citrus fertilizer every four to six weeks.

6. Grapes

Grapes are a rewarding fruit to grow in a greenhouse. With proper training and pruning, they can produce bountiful clusters of fruit.

• Why Grapes Thrive in Spring: Grapes benefit from the stable temperatures and protection from spring frosts that a greenhouse offers.
• Greenhouse Tips:
  • Train vines along wires or trellises to optimize space.
  • Prune back aggressively during the dormant season to encourage healthy growth.
  • Choose varieties like Flame Seedless or Perlette for greenhouse cultivation.

7. Melons

Spring is an excellent time to start growing melons, such as cantaloupe and honeydew, in your greenhouse. These fruits require a longer growing season, making a greenhouse an ideal setting.

• Why Melons Thrive in Spring: The controlled environment of a greenhouse allows you to start melons early, giving them the warm temperatures they need to thrive.
• Greenhouse Tips:
  • Use a nutrient-rich, well-draining soil mix.
  • Train melon vines on trellises to save space and improve air circulation.
  • Provide plenty of sunlight and consistent watering.

8. Figs

Figs are a unique and rewarding fruit to grow in a greenhouse. They’re relatively low maintenance and can yield multiple crops per year under the right conditions.

• Why Figs Thrive in Spring: Spring warmth stimulates fig trees to produce their first flush of fruit.
• Greenhouse Tips:
  • Use large pots to contain fig trees and make them easier to manage.
  • Water consistently but avoid waterlogging.
  • Prune regularly to shape the tree and encourage fruiting.

9. Peaches and Nectarines

These stone fruits are typically associated with summer, but starting them in spring gives them a head start in the greenhouse.

• Why Peaches and Nectarines Thrive in Spring: Spring warmth promotes flowering and fruit set, especially when protected from outdoor frost.
• Greenhouse Tips:
  • Hand-pollinate flowers if natural pollinators are scarce.
  • Maintain consistent humidity and avoid overwatering.
  • Thin fruits to ensure better quality and size.

General Greenhouse Tips for Spring Fruit Growing

• Temperature Control: Use a thermostat to monitor and maintain consistent temperatures, preventing overheating or sudden cold snaps.
• Ventilation: Good airflow is crucial for preventing diseases and ensuring healthy plant growth. Open vents or use fans as needed.

  

• Pest Management: Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests and use natural remedies like neem oil or beneficial insects.
• Fertilization: Different fruits have varying nutrient needs, so research each plant’s requirements and fertilize accordingly.
• Watering: Ensure consistent moisture without overwatering. Use drip irrigation systems to save time and water.

Here’s a simple and delicious Spring Greenhouse Fruit Salad recipe using the fruits mentioned:

Spring Greenhouse Fruit Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 cup diced melons (cantaloupe or honeydew)
• 1/2 cup diced figs
• 1/4 cup currants or gooseberries (optional)
• Juice of 1 fresh lemon or lime (from your greenhouse citrus tree)
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruits: Wash all the fruits thoroughly. Slice strawberries and figs, and dice the melons into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, melons, figs, and currants/gooseberries if using.
3. Add Citrus Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the citrus juice and honey (if desired). Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss to coat.
4. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the fruit salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
5. Enjoy: Serve immediately as a refreshing snack, dessert, or breakfast side!

This vibrant salad showcases the fresh flavours of spring, straight from your greenhouse. Perfect for celebrating the season! 🌱🍓🍇

Conclusion

Growing fruits in a greenhouse during spring is a fulfilling and productive endeavour. With careful planning and attention to each plant’s needs, you can enjoy a wide variety of fresh, delicious fruits right from your garden. From strawberries and blueberries to citrus and melons, the possibilities are nearly endless. So roll up your sleeves, get your hands in the soil, and make the most of the vibrant spring growing season!