Greenhouse or open ground – what suits what?

Greenhouse or open ground – both have their strengths. In the greenhouse there is a protected, warm climate; in the open ground the plants grow close to nature and with less effort. The right choice depends on the crop, your climate and your possibilities.

As a rule of thumb: warmth-loving, sensitive crops benefit from the greenhouse, while robust and space-hungry species feel at home in the open ground.

Advantages of the greenhouse

The greenhouse offers a warm, weather-protected climate in which the season starts earlier and ends later. Rain-sensitive crops such as tomatoes stay dry and are attacked less by blight. Pests are also easier to control. Disadvantages: it must be ventilated, watered and sometimes pollinated by hand, and space is limited.

Advantages of the open ground

In the open ground the plants grow close to nature, are pollinated by insects and need less care. Plenty of space is available – ideal for cabbage, potatoes, pumpkin and root vegetables. In return the plants are more exposed to weather, temperature fluctuations and pests.

Which crop where?

• Ideal in the greenhouse: tomato, cucumber, pepper, chilli, aubergine, melon.
• Ideal in the open ground: brassicas, carrot, onion, potato, lettuce, bean, pea, courgette, pumpkin.
• Both possible: lettuce and herbs – in the greenhouse as an early/late crop, outdoors in summer.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pollinate by hand in the greenhouse?
For tomatoes, gently tapping the flowers helps; cucumbers are often self-fertile. Open ventilation also lets insects in.

Doesn't it get too hot in the greenhouse?
On hot days you must ventilate and shade if necessary – above 30 °C many plants stop setting fruit.

Whether greenhouse or open ground – with strong young plants you start optimally. We raise our young plants to be robust.