I posted here https://www.reddit.com/r/Permaculture/s/abdBsQj5LW over a year ago seeking advice on what roof material to use for my partially earth-sheltered greenhouse. Thought I’d provide an update since it was hard to find examples in comparable conditions/ latitudes, etc.

The greenhouse is dug into a steep slope over 6’ deep along the back wall and at surface at the front. The back wall is a dry stacked rock wall mortared and built 3’ higher with cob. The structure is framed with wood, and the main front wall is a 2’x16’ solarium freebie from someone who wanted it removed from their property. We’re remote and on 100% solar power, so we have LED grow lights we can use for spring starts, but we’re not adding any supplementary heat.

Relevant info: •51°N remote interior BC •~600m (1969ft) elev •south-facing slope •zone 5b average temp range -30°C to 40°C (-22°F to 104°F) •low precipitation area (including snow – typically maybe 6” fall and blow around in drifts)

In the end, we already had a pile of used metal roofing here, so we decided to try two layers of that for the ceiling/ roof (insulated with rockwool) before buying any polycarbonate panels.

It has now been well over a year since we completed the greenhouse and we’ve learned a ton. We found we didn’t need clear roofing to maximize light penetration, and the insulated roof means we still have plants going strong at winter solstice. We supplement with LED grow lights to keep late winter/ early spring seedlings from getting leggy, and we covered the solarium with shade cloth for most of July/ August to cut the intense heat and avoid sun scald. Soil block seedlings suffered a bit in the direct sunlight (vs pots/ growing indoors). Peppers did better there than in our garden beds. Tomatoes limped through summer but thrived into the winter months when outdoor beds were done. Winter greens are doing great in the greenhouse compared to the trays in our south facing windows inside the house.

Any tips for how best to use this space from other growers (especially at this altitude with very hot/ very cold conditions) welcomed!

The more I learn about this plant the more I am impressed. So much healing capabilities for both the body and the soil. Here is some info i have put together on this interesting plant.

When you see plantain growing in your fields, it’s telling you something important about your soil. This plant is like a natural soil doctor, diagnosing and treating problems below ground. Here’s what makes plantain special:

In Compacted Soil

Plantain thrives where other plants struggle because it’s actively fixing the problem. Its roots break up compacted soil, while its natural compounds help rebuild soil structure. When you see plantain in compacted areas, it’s already working to repair your soil.

In Poor or Damaged Soil

The plant produces different healing compounds based on what your soil needs. If your soil is lacking minerals, plantain will develop stronger mineral-pulling abilities. In polluted soils, it increases its cleaning compounds. It’s like having a soil technician who knows exactly what treatment to apply.

Working With Plantain’s Schedule

Just like there are best times to plant and harvest crops, there are optimal times to work with plantain:

Best Collection Times

Early morning (4:30-6:00 AM) is when plantain is strongest. This isn’t just old farmers’ wisdom – it’s when the plant’s helpful compounds are most concentrated. If you can’t make the early morning timing, aim to harvest before the day heats up.

Seasonal Timing

Spring: Best for soil activation and growth stimulation Summer: Ideal for soil building and strengthening Fall: Perfect for soil stabilization before winter Winter: Plant goes dormant but roots continue soil work

Practical Uses on Your Farm

For Soil Improvement

1. Let plantain grow in troubled areas of your fields. It’s actually fixing problems, not causing them.
2. When breaking new ground or recovering old fields, encourage plantain growth for the first season.
3. Use plantain as part of your crop rotation to rebuild soil between demanding crops.

With Other Crops

Plantain works well with many common crops:

• Plant it along field edges to prevent soil compaction
• Use it in walkways between rows to maintain soil structure
• Let it grow under fruit trees to improve soil health

Making Plantain Soil Treatment

To make a soil-enriching treatment from plantain:

1. Collect plants in early morning when dew is still present
2. Chop entire plants (roots and all) into small pieces
3. Mix with water (about 1 part plant to 10 parts water)
4. Let sit for 2-3 weeks, stirring occasionally
5. Use the liquid to water problem soil areas

Signs It’s Working

When plantain is improving your soil, you’ll notice:

• Soil becomes darker and crumblier
• Earthworms become more numerous
• Water absorption improves
• Neighboring plants show stronger growth

Regional Considerations

In Dry Areas

• Plantain will grow smaller but develops stronger soil-healing properties
• Focus on morning collection when plants are moisture-rich
• Use more water when making soil treatments

In Wet Areas

• Plants grow larger with softer leaves
• Reduce water in treatments to account for natural moisture
• Watch for stronger growth in spring and fall

Problem-Solving Guide

Common Challenges

If plantain isn’t growing well:

• Soil might be too toxic – start with small patches and expand gradually
• pH might be extremely off – add organic matter to help balance
• Ground might be too compacted – break surface slightly to help establishment

Improving Results

• Encourage diverse plantain patches rather than single plants
• Allow some plants to go to seed for natural spreading
• Don’t remove all plants when harvesting – leave some to maintain the soil benefits

Working with Nature’s Calendar

Plantain gives clear signals about weather and soil conditions:

Weather Signs

• Leaves folding up: Rain within 2-3 days
• Stronger morning scent: Pressure changes coming
• Rapid new growth: Extended wet period ahead

Soil Signs

• Very small leaves: Soil needs minerals
• Extra broad leaves: Good organic matter present
• Deep green color: Nitrogen levels good

Long-term Benefits

When you work with plantain as a soil improver, expect:

• Better water retention in your soil
• Improved nutrient availability for crops
• More resilient soil structure
• Stronger natural pest resistance
• Enhanced soil microbial life

Remember, plantain isn’t just a weed – it’s a natural tool for better farming. By understanding and working with this plant, you’re tapping into an ancient system of soil improvement that’s been proven over generations. Give it time, observe its effects, and let this natural soil doctor help heal and strengthen your land.

The best part? It’s free, it’s already growing on your farm, and it works while you sleep. That’s the kind of farm helper we all need.

How do you use it?