I've just received a mini greenhouse for free, and I'm really excited to put it to use! I have experience in gardening, but I'm originally from Oklahoma (zone 7a) and now I'm living in Minnesota (zone 3B), which is a whole new ballgame for me. The soil here is super clay-heavy, and I've been a bit hesitant to jump in and try gardening here. I'm mostly looking to plant some vegetables and flowers that attract pollinators. Do you have any tips or advice to help me get started?
2 Answers
Quick question—what material is your greenhouse made of? If it's plastic, just keep in mind that it might struggle to maintain a consistent temperature, especially in our fluctuating climate. But don’t stress; you can still use it alongside other gardening methods, so if you aren't ready to dive in this year, that's totally fine! You can always plant in the ground or containers while you figure it out!
Hey there! That's awesome you got a mini greenhouse! For starters, consider building 12-inch raised beds and mix in some good soil. A combo of soil, peat moss, compost, and sand works wonders on clay soil. Trust me, it makes a big difference! For plants, you can't go wrong with corn, peas, beans, and cucumbers - they love to climb. Throw in some pumpkins for ground cover, plus they make great pies! If you've been eyeing tomatoes, there are varieties that do well in our colder climate too. Spinach and greens grow great late into summer without bolting, which is a plus! And if you're lucky, Saskatoon berries could thrive in your area; they’re tasty little things!