🌿 "My Mini Greenhouse Adventure Before the Quebec Chill"
Just before autumn tiptoed in, I set up a mini greenhouse in my backyard—a cozy little haven for my herbs and veggies. It’s nothing extravagant, but it’s perfect for extending the warmth just a little longer. The translucent cover traps the sun’s rays during the day, keeping my plants snug even as the nights grow cooler.
I’ve placed my pots on sturdy shelves, and the whole setup feels like a secret garden tucked away from the wind. It’s amazing how much life you can preserve with just a bit of shelter. But I know what’s coming—Quebec winters don’t mess around. So, once the frost starts biting and the snow threatens to pile up, I’ll disassemble the greenhouse to prevent damage. The frame’s lightweight, and the cover could tear under heavy snow, so it’s safer to pack it away.
Still, I want my plants to survive the cold, so I’ve been diving into winterizing strategies. Here’s what I’ve learned:
❄️ Winterizing Plants in Quebec: What Works
1. Mulch is Magic
Before the ground freezes, I’ll add a thick layer of mulch (about 4–6 inches) around the base of my perennials and shrubs. It insulates the roots and helps regulate soil temperature.
2. Deep Watering
A good soak before the first freeze helps plants store moisture and prevents winter burn, especially for conifers.
3. Protective Covers
For fragile plants, I’ll use breathable fabric covers like burlap or Arbotex. But timing is key—covering too early can trap moisture and cause rot. Mid-November is usually the sweet spot.
4. Container Care
For potted plants, I’ll either move them into the garage or bury the pots in the ground to protect the roots. Wrapping containers in bubble wrap or burlap also helps insulate them.
5. Save What You Can
Some herbs and annuals can be brought indoors. I’ll snip cuttings of basil and mint to root in water and keep growing on my windowsill.
🏡 Can You Keep a Mini Greenhouse Outside in Winter?
Technically, yes—but only if it’s built for it. In Quebec, snow load and freezing temps are serious business. If you want to keep it up:
- Reinforce the frame and use double-walled polycarbonate panels for insulation.
- Add thermal curtains or bubble wrap inside to trap heat.
- Use black water barrels to absorb and release heat overnight.
- Consider LED grow lights to compensate for short daylight hours.
But for lightweight, portable greenhouses like mine, it’s smarter to take it down and protect the structure. I’ll miss the little oasis, but spring will come—and I’ll be ready
