Early Greenhouse

Usually Charlotte’s spring planting’s official starting day is Easter. This past spring 2 weeks earlier would have worked fine. The winter cold was almost negligible. The soil was warm early. This year instead of the calendar, starting date will be based on soil temperature. There will be enough stuff in the greenhouse that was started early to plant when the soil temperature is right. There will be plenty left over to replant if a late frost comes.

Some people like to plant early for bragging rights. They like to have the 1st of whatever. (Tomatoes are probably the main thing). A good reason for planting early is to avoid the bugs. This does not work for egg plants. They are subject to depredation by flea beetles. If planted after June 1, most of the flea beetles will have moved on.

Before planting in the greenhouse, all of the pots and other paraphernalia should be rinsed with a strong Clorox solution. This will kill most of the fungus and bacteria that might otherwise kill the tender plants.