Though Martha Stewart has been the go-to source for all things gardening, cooking, and homes for almost 50 years, somehow, we're still learning new techniques from her. A recent Instagram post of her glass greenhouse filled with raised beds is a fascinating insight into how she grows fresh produce in all seasons. We haven't stopped thinking about it since.
Stewart states: 'My glass vegetable greenhouse is ready for planting. I am still growing and harvesting from my outdoor garden but planting indoors now will ensure I am never without fresh, nutritious vegetables.' Her blog reveals that most of the garden's energy comes through the roof's glass panels. Prepping the soil was a huge part of her process, and she planted using Miracle-Gro's Shake 'n Feed Tomato, Fruit, and Vegetable Plant Food, formulated especially for growing vegetables. She is growing celery, Swiss chard, spinach, carrots, cilantro, basil, arugula, dill, and parsley.
Should you try to replicate this technique? Gardening experts say yes. 'Having a backyard greenhouse offers a myriad of benefits,' states master gardener and gardening editor Drew Swainston. 'You can start plants indoors earlier in spring, grow lots of tender and heat-loving crops in summer, and also grow vegetables throughout winter in a protected environment.'
He continues, 'When the growing season ends for outside crops, the likes of spinach, lettuce, and brassicas like kale, cabbages, and broccoli, along with many other vegetables, will grow happily in a greenhouse over the colder months.' It takes the guess work out of when to plant vegetables.
Further, her use of raised garden beds takes Stewart's greenhouse planting to the next level. Swainston states: 'Growing in raised beds in the greenhouse, as Martha is doing, is a great way of utilizing the space. Much room is dedicated to the crops, making the most of the space. The raised beds are built at a width where you can reach into the center from the paths, so you will not compact the soil by walking on the beds.
The space is also perfectly set up for walking through. 'The greenhouse has a fan for heat and air circulation and lights, so you can check crops on darker evenings. It is a fantastic set-up for growing a great selection of homegrown vegetables,' says Swainston.
What to Plant In Your Raised Bed Greenhouse
Growing zucchini from seeds is straightforward and satisfying – especially when they make superb additions to summer salads.
Buttercrunch is an extremely popular variety of lettuce that is easy to grow and has a luscious, buttery texture.
Get a headstart on your winter crop with these organic squash seeds. Burgess Buttercup Winter Squash has a distinctive nutty flavor.
Though creating a greenhouse with raised beds is no easy feat, if it brings us one step closer to being Martha Stewart, we're up for the challenge.
