When we talk about portable greenhouses and how they would fare in Surrey in the winter, there are two major issues. One is whether they offer enough protection from the cold, and the other is whether they will even stay in place withstanding our wind and rain. So, in today’s blog article we are going to discuss these two issues.

First, a portable greenhouse can mean a lot of different things. There are lightweight plastic greenhouses without a concrete base or foundation, and there are lean-to type greenhouses that lean against your home or another outbuilding facing south or southwest.

Protection From Cold

As far as protection from cold goes, the answer to the question in the title is “probably”. Our winters are not terribly cold, with temperatures only barely going below freezing. On the Lower Mainland in Surrey we have roughly a USDA garden zone 8. So, the flimsiest greenhouse out there is probably fine for our weather as far as temperature goes.

Protection From Wind and Rain

Regarding the other aspects of our weather, such as wind and rain, the answer to the question in the title is “possibly”. Depending on what type of portable greenhouse you have, you will likely need to do something to keep it from blowing away or collapsing in rain and snow.

Some people use some DIY know-how and ratcheting straps to hold a greenhouse down. Most greenhouses come with some types of anchors which can be shored up. If the greenhouse has shelving as part of its structure, then large bins filled with sand or water can hold it down.

So, it really depends on what type of portable greenhouse you are dealing with. But do not underestimate our winds, rain, and snow. Here in our temperature rainforest climate in Surrey on the Lower Mainland, we do have frequent windstorms in the fall and winter, and the last thing you will want is to lose your greenhouse, not to mention the plants that it may be storing.

We like every season of the year. Come and visit us in Surrey at our flagship store, and we will be happy to answer your questions.

Art Knapp has 15 locations across British Columbia and is well known as the go-to garden centre for everything garden-related. Art Knapp, himself, began the business in the 1940's, and now, 80 years later, you can find more than he ever dreamed of in our stores. Come and see us on King George Boulevard in Surrey. 

If you have any questions about this article or want to talk to us about gardening, just give us a call at (604) 596-9201.