What to grow in a greenhouse? 10 top picks to get started

Whether you're a novice gardener or a seasoned grower, your greenhouse offers endless possibilities. But what should you grow in it? Euro-serre gives advice! Combine classic crops with surprising newcomers that will not only delight your taste buds but also fill your greenhouse with color, fragrance, and life. Here are our 10 top picks to inspire your greenhouse adventure.

1. Tomatoes

Ask any gardener, "what do you grow in your greenhouse?" and the answer will likely be tomatoes. This ultimate greenhouse classic is not only incredibly versatile but also available in all shapes and flavors: from sweet cherry tomatoes to juicy beef varieties like coeur de boeuf, and even the kumato with its dark color and fresh sweetness.

2. Peppers

Who thinks a greenhouse is all about greenery has clearly never grown peppers. These colorful vitamin bombs bring both flavor and vibrancy to your greenhouse. Choose from sunny yellow, classic red, fresh green, or even deep purple. They thrive in the stable warmth of your greenhouse and reward you with a generous harvest. Choose sweet peppers for salads and snacks or go for mild spicy varieties to add some extra kick to your dishes.

3. Zucchini blossoms

Zucchinis are incredibly versatile; not only the fruits but also the shoots, leaves, and especially the flowers are edible. These golden blossoms are a real delicacy. Stuff them with creamy ricotta, fry them lightly for a crispy treat, or use them as a decorative topping in your salads.

4. Ginger

Why buy ginger when you can grow your own? This tropical root plant thrives in the warm, stable environment of a greenhouse. Simply plant a piece of ginger root in nutrient-rich soil, give it some care and water, and within a few months, you will be harvesting your own fresh ginger. Perfect for hot teas, spicy curries, or warming winter drinks. Ginger takes up little space, requires minimal maintenance, and provides a lot of flavor.

5. Eggplant

Eggplants love warmth and feel perfectly at home in a greenhouse. From the classic deep purple variety to elegant white and striped types, this versatile vegetable brings both taste and color to your dishes. Give them enough space, a sturdy stake for support, and regular watering, and they will reward you with a bountiful harvest.

6. Strawberries

Nothing beats the taste of homegrown strawberries: sweet, juicy, and full of flavor. With everbearing varieties, you can enjoy fresh strawberries not just once, but for months on end – perfect for a summer dessert, a fresh smoothie, or just eaten straight from the plant. In the sheltered environment of a greenhouse, strawberries grow faster and stay healthy. Plant them in pots or directly in the soil and be surprised by an abundant supply of summer sweetness.

7. Radishes

For the impatient gardener, radishes are an ideal match. These crunchy little roots sprout in just a few weeks, ready to add a spicy kick to salads, sandwiches, and soups. Sow, water, and harvest – it doesn’t get much easier than that.

Want to try something different? Go for the watermelon radish. It may look like a regular radish on the outside, but slice it open, and you'll find a surprising pink core with a fresh green rim. Its slightly sweet taste makes it perfect for salads, poke bowls, or as a healthy snack. Just as easy to grow as the classic variety but with an extra wow factor.

8. Melons

Growing melons in your greenhouse means bringing the ultimate taste of summer indoors. Whether you choose a classic cantaloupe, a refreshing honeydew, or a juicy galia melon, these sweet fruits thrive in the warmth of your greenhouse. With plenty of sun and a bit of support, they climb easily and reward you with a delicious harvest.

Want something unique? Try the mouse melon. These tiny watermelon-lookalikes have a crisp, cucumber-like taste with a hint of tartness. Let them climb up a trellis or plant them in pots, and enjoy their refreshing crunch.

9. Herbs

A greenhouse without herbs? Unthinkable! Basil, parsley, thyme, and mint thrive in warm, sheltered conditions. Grow them in pots for flexibility or plant them directly in the soil for a lush, fragrant herb bed. Bonus: basil helps repel insects, while mint spreads a fresh, invigorating scent throughout your greenhouse.

10. Edible flowers

Edible flowers such as nasturtiums, violets, and marigolds are both a feast for the eyes and a delicious addition to your dishes. They are easy to grow and add a cheerful touch to your greenhouse. Use them as colorful toppings on salads, desserts, or even in cocktails. As a bonus, they attract beneficial insects that help protect your plants.

What to grow in a greenhouse? The possibilities are endless. From juicy tomatoes and sweet strawberries to fragrant herbs and colorful edible flowers, your greenhouse can be a paradise of flavors and scents. Depending on your preferences, it can become a thriving vegetable garden, an exotic fruit haven, or a fragrant herb retreat. More tips? Download our free sowing calendar. Are you growing something unique in your euro-serre? Send us your photos at docu@euroserre.com.