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Winterizing Your Riverstone Greenhouse: Protecting Plants and Structure
When the temperature drops, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your greenhouse and plants healthy through the winter months. Whatever Riverstone Industries Greenhouse you have in your garden, winterizing helps protect your investment, maintain warmth, and keep your growing season alive.
This guide will walk you through how to prepare your Riverstone greenhouse for winter, step by step, even if you’re new to greenhouse car
Key Takeaways
- Clean panels and check for cracks before the first frost.
- Seal all gaps and use bubble wrap or insulation where needed.
- Add heaters or mats for sensitive plants in very cold regions.
- Ventilate to control condensation and prevent mold.
- Clear snow from the roof and gutters after every storm.
- Check temperature, light, and seals regularly through the season.
Table of Contents
- Why Winterizing Matters
- Step 1: Clean and Inspect Before the Cold Hits
- Step 2: Seal and Insulate Cracks and Openings
- Step 3: Add Supplemental Heat (If Needed)
- Step 4: Manage Moisture and Condensation
- Step 5: Protect Plants from Frost
- Step 6: Prepare for Snow and Ice
- Step 7: Lighting and Energy Efficiency
- Step 8: Check Regularly
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Winterizing Matters
Greenhouses trap heat, but when temperatures drop below freezing, even the best structures need help to stay efficient. Winterizing prevents heat loss, keeps condensation in check, and protects the panels and framing from snow or ice buildup.
Without proper prep, your plants can suffer frost damage and your structure can wear faster.
Step 1: Clean and Inspect Before the Cold Hits
Start with a clean slate. Wash your polycarbonate panels using mild soap and water to let in maximum sunlight during shorter winter days.
Then check:
- Panels: Look for cracks or loose fittings. Replace or reseal any damaged ones.
- Frame: Tighten bolts and ensure all connections are snug.
- Doors and Vents: Make sure seals are intact and close tightly.
- Base: Check for ground gaps that could allow drafts.
Step 2: Seal and Insulate Cracks and Openings
Once you’ve inspected everything, add insulation where needed. If you live in a colder region, you can add bubble wrap insulation to the inside walls. It’s lightweight, easy to install, and helps keep heat inside without blocking light.
Focus on these areas:
- Doors and Windows: Use self-adhesive weather stripping or foam tape to seal small gaps.
- Panels: Apply clear greenhouse tape or silicone sealant to prevent cold air leaks.
- Foundation: Place insulation boards or thick rubber mats along the base to block drafts.
Step 3: Add Supplemental Heat (If Needed)
Riverstone greenhouses retain heat well, but during freezing nights, extra warmth keeps plants safe.
Getting any of these wouldn't hurt:
- Electric heater with thermostat: Simple and steady for smaller setups.
- Propane heater: Great for larger spaces but requires proper ventilation.
- Heat mats: Perfect for seed trays or sensitive plants.
Keep the temperature between 45°F and 55°F for most overwintering plants. Always monitor heat levels using a reliable thermometer or digital sensor.
Step 4: Manage Moisture and Condensation
Moisture buildup can cause mold or rot, especially when the greenhouse stays sealed.
- Open roof vents or doors on mild days to air out moisture.
- Use a small fan to keep air moving evenly.
- Avoid overwatering plants during winter.
Riverstone greenhouses often come with automatic vent openers. If you have one, check that it still moves freely before cold weather sets in.
Step 5: Protect Plants from Frost
Not every plant has the same cold tolerance, so give them an extra layer of protection.
- Group plants together for shared warmth.
- Place tender plants on raised benches instead of the cold floor.
- Use frost cloths or row covers at night for sensitive varieties.
- Keep potted plants close to the greenhouse center, away from exterior walls.
- If you’re growing vegetables, switch to cool-season crops like lettuce, kale, spinach, and carrots for steady winter harvests.
Step 6: Prepare for Snow and Ice
Riverstone polycarbonate panels can handle heavy snow, but it’s best not to let it pile up.
These can help make them last through the cold:
- Use a soft broom or long-handled brush to clear snow from the roof.
- Check gutters and downspouts for blockages.
- Make sure no overhanging branches could drop ice onto the structure.
- A few minutes of snow removal can prevent sagging or frame stress later in the season.
Step 7: Lighting and Energy Efficiency
With shorter days, you may need supplemental lighting for seedlings or winter crops.
- LED grow lights are energy-efficient and produce little heat.
- Set them on timers for 10–12 hours of daily light.
- Clean light fixtures regularly to maintain brightness.
To save energy, place reflective insulation (like Mylar sheets) behind plants to redirect light.
Step 8: Check Regularly
Once your greenhouse is winter-ready, check it every few days.
- Confirm the temperature stays consistent.
- Watch for signs of mold, frost, or drafts.
- Remove any condensation or snow buildup.
Final Thoughts
Winterizing your Riverstone Industries Greenhouse takes a bit of time, but it’s worth every effort. By sealing gaps, cleaning panels, managing temperature, and keeping moisture under control, you’re setting up your plants and structure for a healthy, problem-free winter.
A well-prepared greenhouse not only protects your plants but also extends your growing season and keeps your structure strong year after year. Take the time now to get everything ready, and when the cold weather hits, you’ll be able to relax knowing your plants are thriving in a warm, sheltered space.
Have any questions or would like to place an order? We'd love to help! Chat with our friendly customer service team by calling 1-844-945-3625, chatting in on our website or email us at customersupport@wildoaktrail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start winterizing my greenhouse?
Begin 3–4 weeks before your first expected frost to give yourself enough time.
Can I leave my plants in the greenhouse all winter?
Yes, but choose cold-tolerant plants and maintain temperatures above 45°F.
Do I need to heat my greenhouse in winter?
Not always. Insulation and sunlight may be enough for hardy plants in mild climates.
How do I prevent condensation?
Ventilate on warmer days and use a fan for steady airflow.
Is bubble wrap insulation effective?
Yes, it traps warm air while letting in sunlight, making it ideal for winter use.
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