Tomatoes
Choose cordon types for vertical cropping or bush types for pots and baskets. Keep watering even to reduce splitting and blossom-end problems.
GREENHOUSE FRUIT
Fruit crops that earn their greenhouse space.
Protected growing can provide the warmth, shelter and longer season needed for heavy crops—but only when watering, feeding, pollination and ventilation are managed together.
Best choices for beginners
Cucumbers
Greenhouse cultivars appreciate warmth, humidity at the roots and space around leaves. Train securely and follow variety advice on male flowers.
Sweet peppers and chillies
They need warmth and a long season. Pot size, steady feeding and good light affect the final crop.
Strawberries
Protected plants can crop earlier. Ventilate for pollinators or assist pollination, and watch closely for red spider mite and grey mould.
Fruit for more experienced growers
Aubergines, melons, dessert grapes, figs and citrus can all suit protected culture, but they have different space and winter-temperature requirements. Check mature size before buying. A grapevine can shade a small greenhouse; citrus in containers may need winter protection and careful feeding.
Pollination matters
Open doors and vents when conditions allow pollinating insects to enter. Gently tapping tomato flower trusses can help release pollen. Avoid applying insecticides while pollinators are active and always follow the product label.
Buy plants, not future problems
Look for compact, sturdy growth, an undamaged growing point and leaves free from mottling, webbing, sticky residue or obvious pests. Isolate new arrivals briefly and inspect the pot, leaf undersides and stems before placing them among established plants.
Explore the plant directory and monthly growing calendar.
What’s happening in your greenhouse?
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Keep growing your knowledge.
Explore useful books with reading levels, practical notes and links back to our growing guides.
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