Do greenhouses work in Wisconsin?

Answered by Jarrod Smith

Greenhouses can be extremely effective in Wisconsin, providing an extended growing season of up to 12 months. The state’s cold and cloudy winters can make it challenging to grow plants outdoors, but a greenhouse can help overcome these limitations. By offering a controlled environment, greenhouses allow gardeners to grow a wide variety of plants regardless of the external weather conditions.

One of the primary advantages of a greenhouse in Wisconsin is the ability to start planting earlier in the spring. The cold temperatures and lingering frost can delay the planting season for outdoor gardens. However, in a greenhouse, gardeners can start sowing seeds and nurturing seedlings as early as February or March. This allows for a head start on the growing season and ultimately leads to a bountiful harvest.

Furthermore, greenhouses provide protection from the harsh winter conditions, such as freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and strong winds. These environmental factors can damage or kill plants in outdoor gardens, making it difficult to maintain a consistent supply of fresh produce. However, inside a greenhouse, plants are shielded from these elements, allowing for continuous growth and productivity throughout the year.

In addition to extending the growing season, greenhouses in Wisconsin can also help combat seasonal depression. The state’s long, dark winters can have a negative impact on mental health, with many individuals experiencing symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is often attributed to a lack of natural sunlight, which can affect mood, energy levels, and overall well-being.

By spending time in a greenhouse, gardeners can benefit from increased exposure to natural sunlight, even during the cloudy winter months. The transparent walls and roof of a greenhouse allow sunlight to penetrate and provide the necessary light for plant growth. This exposure to sunlight can also have a positive impact on human health, helping to alleviate symptoms of seasonal depression and improving overall mood.

Personally, as a Wisconsin resident and avid gardener, I have experienced the benefits of a greenhouse firsthand. Having a greenhouse has allowed me to overcome the challenges of the state’s cold winters and continue pursuing my gardening hobby year-round. I have been able to start my seeds early, grow a wide range of plants, and enjoy fresh produce even during the winter months.

Greenhouses are highly effective in Wisconsin, providing an extended growing season and offering a solution to the challenges posed by the state’s cold and cloudy winters. Whether you are a passionate gardener looking to pursue your hobby year-round or someone seeking to combat seasonal depression, a greenhouse can be a valuable addition to your home. With the ability to control the environment and provide ample sunlight, greenhouses offer an ideal solution for gardening enthusiasts in Wisconsin.