Sometimes the only way to go is up. And when is that truer than late spring, with horizontal space at a premium for the burgeoning seedlings we began last winter? Going vertical isn抰 merely practical, vines are lovely too.
Many grow outdoors during the summer. But, depending upon the season greenhouse environments can be ideal for them. Summer, when greenhouse interiors reach hot tropical temps, is great for growing tropical vines. They benefit from other aspects of greenhouse environments梙igh humidity levels, and protection from the punishing winds that damage tender growth outside.
In fall and winter, when temperatures aren抰 as warm, sheltered greenhouse interiors allow you to try things you might not otherwise attempt. Some vines actually prefer cooler temps, so consider their requirements when choosing which to grow, and when.
As with any indoor plant, closely monitor greenhouse vines for pests. Carefully check leaf undersides, and along stems--particularly the growing tips--where insects congregate. Once you spot an infestation, act quickly. Soap treatments can be effective for small populations, but best results are achieved with horticultural oil. Don抰 assume a single treatment will solve the problem. Vigilance is best-- re-treat until completely under control.
The primarily closed nature of greenhouse environments in winter makes them ideal for experimenting with predator insects. To learn more, check http://greenmethods.com. Many greenhouse problems梚ncluding disease and fungal issues-- are headed off by cultural practices, such as allowing soil to dry out thoroughly between watering, using fans for air circulation, and frequent pruning. These measures are particularly crucial during periods of overcast weather, when low sunlight can promote leggy growth. Water-logged soil also encourages fungus populations to increase.
Ipomoea alba is the evening blooming, giant white-flowered 揗oonflower.?This vigorous 揗orning Glory?has large, heart-shaped leaves and can attain fifteen feet. Give it awhile to begin blooming-the scent at dusk is heavenly!
Ipomoea quamoclit Although its appearance might confuse you, this climber with small, tubular, bright scarlet flowers and finely cut leaves is in the 揗orning Glory?family too. Guaranteed hummingbirds.
Passiflora 揚assionflowers?are wonderfully diverse, and since they won抰 survive winter outdoors for most of us, they抮e perfect to grow inside greenhouses. Most originate in South America, tolerating cool temperatures, but not frost. Consider Passiflora caerulea, and its many lovely cultivars, or Passiflora platyloba, with fragrant purple and white flowers and edible fruit.
Luffa Cultivated worldwide for their fruit, which is dried for use as sponges, Luffa is in the gourd family, and can easily be trained up the sides of greenhouse walls. As it requires a long growing season, planting it in the greenhouse insures you抣l be harvesting sponge gourds no matter what happens outside.
Enjoy this varied and wonderful group of plants this season!
