How to create the perfect greenhouse planting plan

A productive greenhouse starts with a smart plan. Thinking carefully about where each crop goes helps you harvest more, reduce the risk of plant diseases and make the most of your greenhouse. Whether you're setting up a new greenhouse or redesigning your layout for next season, these practical tips will help you use every square metre wisely.

1. Start with a simple sketch

Before you start sowing or planting, draw a rough plan of your greenhouse. Where are your growing beds? Where is the door? Which areas receive the most sunlight? Don't forget to include a path so you can reach every plant without stepping on your beds.

2. Make the most of height and sunlight

Don't just think about floor space, use the vertical space too. Tomato hooks and training systems make it easy to grow tomatoes, cucumbers and even grapevines upwards, leaving more room below for lower-growing crops.

Light matters as well. Position taller plants at the back of your greenhouse or along the northern side so they don't cast shade over smaller crops.

3. Choose the right companion plants

Some plants simply grow better together. Companion planting helps keep pests under control naturally while improving your harvest, without the need for pesticides.

Some tried-and-tested combinations include:

• Peppers & basil – basil helps deter certain insects and also grows well alongside chillies and celery.

• Carrots & onions – onions help keep carrot flies away, while carrots discourage onion flies.

• French marigolds & tomatoes, potatoes or strawberries – marigolds naturally repel aphids, whiteflies and certain soil nematodes.

4. Practise crop rotation

A good planting plan changes from year to year. Avoid growing the same crops in exactly the same spot every season. Rotating crops keeps your soil healthier and helps prevent pests and diseases from building up.

5. Create a practical workspace

Every greenhouse benefits from a dedicated workspace. Make room for a seedling tray or a potting table. They make sowing more comfortable while allowing you to start seedlings without taking up valuable space in your growing beds. This helps you maximise the available space: grow your crops in the ground, place a seedling tray above them and add a shelf above that for pots and young plants. A rack mounted against the wall is another smart addition. It keeps pots, seed packets and small gardening tools neatly organised and always within easy reach.

Your greenhouse, your plan

There is no one-size-fits-all greenhouse layout. Every greenhouse has its own dimensions, orientation and growing conditions, and every gardener has different favourites. With a well-designed layout, smart companion planting and the right Euro-Serre accessories, you'll make the most of every square metre.

Explore our complete range of accessories and create a greenhouse that works perfectly for you.