What to Grow in a Greenhouse in April: A Comprehensive Guide

April is a month of transition in the gardening world, as winter gives way to spring. For greenhouse gardeners, it’s an exciting time to maximize the potential of your protected growing space. Whether you’re a seasoned horticulturist or a budding enthusiast, knowing what to plant in April will help you make the most of this crucial period. Here’s an in-depth guide to help you decide what to grow in your greenhouse this month.

The Benefits of Greenhouse Gardening in April

A greenhouse provides the perfect environment to kickstart your gardening season. By April, temperatures are warming, and daylight hours are increasing, creating ideal conditions for a variety of crops. With a greenhouse, you can:

• Extend the growing season for early crops.
• Protect delicate plants from late frosts.
• Maintain a controlled environment for temperature-sensitive plants.
• Experiment with a diverse range of vegetables, fruits, and flowers.

When considering what products to grow in a greenhouse in April, it’s important to be mindful of the changing weather conditions. While many vegetables and flowers thrive in the controlled environment of a greenhouse, there are some crops that may not perform as well during this transitional month. Crops like cool-season greens (e.g., spinach, kale) and early spring vegetables (e.g., peas, radishes) may still be prone to frost and fluctuating temperatures, which can impact their growth. Additionally, crops that require consistent heat, such as heat-loving tomatoes and peppers, may struggle due to cooler April nights. By focusing on crops suited for moderate temperatures, greenhouse gardeners can ensure a successful harvest as the season progresses.

Vegetables to Grow in a Greenhouse in April

Vegetable gardening in April can be incredibly rewarding. By starting early, you’ll enjoy fresh, homegrown produce well before the outdoor growing season reaches its peak. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes thrive in greenhouses, and April is the perfect time to sow seeds or transplant seedlings. Choose varieties like cherry tomatoes, Roma, or heirlooms for diverse flavours. Ensure you use grow bags or pots with nutrient-rich compost and provide stakes or cages for support.

2. Peppers and Chilies

Sweet peppers and hot chilies are ideal for greenhouse cultivation. Plant seeds in trays if you haven’t already started them indoors. These plants love warmth, so the greenhouse environment in April is perfect for their early growth stages.

3. Cucumbers

Fast-growing and prolific, cucumbers are a greenhouse staple. Sow seeds directly into pots or trays, and train vines to climb supports to save space. Look for greenhouse-friendly varieties such as ‘Telegraph’ or ‘Marketmore.’

4. Lettuce and Salad Greens

For quick and continuous harvests, grow lettuces and mixed salad greens like arugula, spinach, and mustard greens. These crops thrive in cooler temperatures and can be sown directly into trays or beds.

5. Carrots and Radishes

Carrots and radishes are excellent choices for early sowing in April. Use deep containers for carrots and shallow trays for radishes, and enjoy a harvest in just a few weeks.

6. Herbs

Herbs such as basil, parsley, cilantro, and dill grow exceptionally well in a greenhouse. Start seeds in pots or trays and enjoy fresh flavours for your kitchen.

Fruits to Cultivate in a Greenhouse in April

Growing fruits in a greenhouse can yield sweet and flavourful results. Here are some fruits to consider:

1. Strawberries

April is an excellent time to grow strawberries in your greenhouse. Plant them in hanging baskets or pots with well-draining soil. Choose everbearing varieties for a longer harvest season.

2. Melons

For those in warmer climates or with heated greenhouses, melons like cantaloupe and watermelon can be sown in April. These plants need plenty of warmth and space to spread.

3. Grapes

If you have the space, a greenhouse is a fantastic place to grow grapevines. April is a good time to prune and train vines for optimal growth.

4. Citrus Fruits

Lemon, lime, and orange trees thrive in greenhouses. While they are perennial plants, April is an ideal time to check on their growth, fertilize them, and repot if necessary.

Flowers to Start in April

A greenhouse is not only for edibles; it’s also a great place to grow vibrant flowers that add beauty to your garden.

1. Petunias

Petunias are a classic greenhouse flower. Start seeds in April to transplant outside in late spring or early summer.

2. Geraniums

Geraniums are another favourite for greenhouse cultivation. They thrive in pots and provide stunning blooms throughout the season.

3. Marigolds

Marigolds are easy to grow and serve a dual purpose by attracting pollinators and deterring pests. Start seeds in trays for transplanting later.

4. Sweet Peas

Sweet peas are a delightful addition to any greenhouse. Sow seeds in pots and enjoy their fragrant flowers by early summer.

Tips for Successful Greenhouse Gardening in April

To make the most of your greenhouse in April, consider the following tips:

1. Monitor Temperature

April weather can be unpredictable, with warm days and chilly nights. Use a thermometer to track the temperature and employ heating or ventilation as needed.

2. Water Wisely

As temperatures rise, your plants will require more water. Water in the morning to prevent fungal issues, and use a drip irrigation system for consistent moisture.

3. Provide Adequate Ventilation

Proper airflow is essential to prevent overheating and reduce humidity levels. Open vents or windows during warm days.

4. Feed Your Plants

Use organic fertilizers or compost to provide essential nutrients. Pay attention to specific feeding requirements for each crop.

5. Plan for Succession Planting

To ensure continuous harvests, plan succession planting by sowing new seeds every few weeks.

Conclusion

April is a vibrant month for greenhouse gardening, offering opportunities to grow a wide array of vegetables, fruits, and flowers. By carefully selecting crops suited to the season and maintaining a healthy greenhouse environment, you can enjoy a bountiful and beautiful gardening experience. Whether you’re looking forward to fresh tomatoes, fragrant herbs, or colourful blooms, the time to start is now.

Happy gardening!