🌿 Greenhouse Reset & Winter Prep – Ready for a New Growing Season! 🌿
After four solid years of sun, wind, heat, and freezing winters, the plastic on our greenhouse finally gave out. It held up well, but time (and weather) won. So we decided it was time for a refresh — and what a difference it has made!
🏡 Winterizing the Homestead
Before the crew arrived, we started getting the yard ready:
🪴 Garden beds covered with black plastic and fresh leaves to decompose over winter
🌳 Fruit trees lined up for a much-needed pruning
🌬 Greenhouse prepped for a full plastic replacement
From the outside, the greenhouse didn’t look too bad… but once you walked around the side — it was clear the double-layer plastic had failed.
🔧 Replacing the Greenhouse Plastic
We originally installed a double layer with an air pump between them for insulation. It lasted nearly five years. This time, after talking with experienced local growers, we chose a single layer of commercial-grade plastic — the same type used on larger production greenhouses nearby. It should last up to seven years.
The crew:
Removed both old layers
Ground down residue on the metal ribs so the new plastic wouldn’t tear
Installed the new plastic using wiggle wire channels
Removed the old air pump (not needed with a single layer)
And the result? Incredible.
Within hours, the greenhouse was sealed tight — clean, bright, and already holding heat beautifully. Even on a chilly morning, it warmed up quickly inside. It feels brand new.
✂️ Pruning the Fruit Trees
While the greenhouse was underway, the fruit trees got serious attention:
🍎 Apple trees opened up and shaped for better airflow and fruit production
🍑 Peach and pear trees trimmed and strengthened
🍑 A neglected plum tree finally reduced in height and opened up for healthier growth
This was easily the best pruning job we’ve ever had done. The trees look balanced and ready for a stronger harvest next season.
🌵 Cleanup & Looking Ahead
The yard was cleared, branches hauled away, and everything looks tidy and winter-ready. We’ll bring the crew back in spring for spraying and a few more projects.
Now we wait — hoping for much-needed moisture this winter. With drought conditions affecting most of the region, every bit of snow or rain will matter.
But for now, we’re ready.
The greenhouse is secure.
The trees are pruned.
The homestead is winterized.
And spring will be here before we know it. 🌱