Oregon's climate provides a unique opportunity for year-round gardening with a vegetable greenhouse if it is set up properly. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting, understanding the best crops to grow in each season is key. Know what to plant in your vegetable greenhouse and enjoy a thriving, productive crop all year long.
Here’s your seasonal guide to planting in Oregon’s climate.
Winter (December - February)
Cold-Weather Champions
Winter in Oregon can get chilly and icy, but a well managed greenhouse offers a protective environment for plants to grow. Still, you should focus on cool-weather crops that thrive in lower temperatures (can help keep your heating bill lower). Lettuce, spinach, and kale are excellent choices, as they can withstand cooler conditions and provide fresh greens when outdoor gardens are dormant. Broccoli and cauliflower are also good options, offering hearty produce to enjoy in winter stews and salads.
For a touch of flavor, try growing herbs like parsley and cilantro. They grow well in cooler conditions and add some Summer freshness to winter dishes.
Spring (March - May)
Get a Head Start
As the days lengthen and temperatures begin to rise, your vegetable greenhouse becomes the perfect place to start early crops. In Oregon, tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers can be started early in the season inside the greenhouse, ensuring strong plants ready for transplanting when the outdoor weather warms up.
Spring is also ideal for planting radishes and carrots directly in the greenhouse soil. These root vegetables are quick to mature, giving you an early harvest to enjoy.
Summer (June - August)
Maximize with Warmer Temperatures
Oregon summers can be mild, especially in coastal areas, making your greenhouse a haven for heat-loving plants. Grow eggplants, zucchini, and bell peppers during the summer months. These plants thrive in the consistent warmth of a greenhouse, producing bountiful harvests.
You can also continue growing tomatoes, which will benefit from the extra heat, producing sweeter and more flavorful fruits. Basil and other warm-weather herbs also do exceptionally well during this time, complementing your summer produce.
Fall (September - November)
Extend the Harvest of Your Vegetable Greenhouse
As the weather cools, your greenhouse extends the growing season, allowing you to harvest fresh produce well into the fall. Return to planting cooler-weather crops like lettuce, spinach, and beets. Swiss chard is another great choice, providing vibrant greens throughout the autumn months.
Consider starting another round of herbs like chives and thyme, which can last through the cooler months, adding flavor to your fall dishes.
Key Takeaways
With careful planning and attention to Oregon’s weather, your vegetable greenhouse can provide a continuous supply of fresh, homegrown produce year-round. By following this seasonal planting guide, you can make the most of your greenhouse, no matter the time of year. Happy planting!