These easy plans for building a wood greenhouse will enable you to build a decorative and functional outbuilding that will not only allow you to grow food and flowers in the off-season, but will also add value to your property.
A DIY wood greenhouse can be built as a permanent structure, temporary structure, or something in-between to meet your gardening needs.
Check out our round up of these 12 wood greenhouse plans that you can build easily to find the DIY structure that is right for your gardening needs.
Here we have a DIY structure by blackanddecker that can be created in any size needed and can be semi-permanent or permanent. The plastic sheeting that covers the wood frame will last 3-5 years and can easily be replaced or the structure taken apart, depending on your future needs.
Wood Frame Greenhouse Plan, we love this design as its simple and costs a little, Image via: blackanddecker
3- Extend Growing Season
Use these step by step plans to build a large wood frame greenhouse by theelliotthomestead that will enable you to extend your food growing season. Harvest fresh greenhouse vegetables almost year around when using a large greenhouse like these plans will enable you to build. Get crops started earlier in the spring with the growing space this homemade greenhouse will provide.
This size is perfect for most home gardeners and will enable you to have fresh produce and/or flowers almost 12 months out of each year without taking up the entire backyard.
* Select a location that is in full sun.
* Decide on size and buy lumber, door and polyethylene foil (according to detailed list included with free plans)
* Create this functional and decorative greenhouse with top vents.
This DIY greenhouse by uk-gardening is for the serious gardener who depends upon their homegrown vegetables as part of a sustainable lifestyle or for income production. Great for growing plants on shelves and in grow boxes. You may also like to see hoop house plans.
* Pick a sunny, level location and install 6 wooden support posts.
* Lay insulation board on the ground and cover with at least 18 inches of soil (this will be the raised bed).
* Build and install the top frame for roof.
* Cover structure with plastic to hold heat inside. Remove plastic in spring.
Get the instructions for this raised bed greenhouse
Raised Bed Wood Greenhouse Plans, Image via: wayneofthewoods
7- Cheap Greenhouse
Small wood greenhouse by runnerduck that can be built against another outbuilding. The small size and use of exterior wall space from another structure make this an inexpensive DIY build. Great for seed starting in spring so you can get a head start on the garden growing season.
This easy to build greenhouse by ideadonnafarm has a plywood floor and plywood half-walls, topped with a wood frame covered with plastic. This simple and functional design will last for years and can easily be transformed into a different type of outdoor structure (work shop, playhouse, tool shed, etc.) if the time comes when it’s no longer needed for a greenhouse. You may also like to see pvc greenhouse plans.
Classic style that is easy to build and efficient to use. Simple wood frame with one door and three air vents, all covered with plastic provides plenty of space for seed starting and plant growing. Get the detail for this wood frame greenhouse by construct101.
Conclusion
Greenhouses help you to extend the growing season and get vegetables year round. Now you have ample resources from the list we have shared with you to decide to make one for yourself that suits your style and budget. Hope our article has helped you!
Utilizing your DIY skills alongside these greenhouse plans can significantly boost your ability to cultivate fresh produce throughout the year. When I first explored the idea of building a greenhouse, I was motivated by the prospect of extending the growing season and maximizing my yield. It seemed like a practical solution to ensure a steady supply of homegrown fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
A greenhouse offers the advantage of starting plant seeds earlier and prolonging the production of crops well into the fall season. This capability intrigued me, as it meant I could enjoy a wider variety of fresh produce for a longer period. Additionally, the prospect of having a space to overwinter potted plants appealed to me, as it would allow me to nurture my greenery year-round.
With a plethora of 57 DIY greenhouse plans available, I was spoiled for choice when it came to selecting the right design for my needs and skill level. Browsing through these plans, I felt inspired and eager to embark on the project. Each plan offered unique features and construction methods, providing me with valuable insights and ideas to incorporate into my own greenhouse design.
Exploring these easy-to-follow greenhouse plans on various internet platforms, I felt empowered to kickstart the construction process and begin growing my own produce. The accessibility of these plans meant that anyone, regardless of their building experience, could embark on this rewarding DIY project. Armed with enthusiasm and determination, I looked forward to creating a thriving greenhouse that would serve as a hub for my gardening adventures
57 DIY greenhouse plans with tutorials:
1- Greenhouse from an Old Carport
I recommend this greenhouse plan to those with a small budget and for beginners. It is a mini looking cute DIY greenhouse by Instructables made from a portable old carport. The idea is great and one of the best greenhouse plans. Many people have those old carports that are no longer in usage and through this easy plan, they can be turned into ideal greenhouses.
The DIYer also efficiently used metal pipe clamps to hold the wood so there was no need to drill into carport pipes. This ensures that if in future you want to take down the greenhouse, it is still usable.
The whole frame is connected with crossing guy wires which make it very stable. The shade cloth on top is also moveable when not needed.
A pretty simple and efficient plan.
Greenhouse from an Old Carport, Image via: Instructables
2- Glass Jar Greenhouse
Exploring DIY projects has always been a source of inspiration for me, and stumbling upon the DIY greenhouse plan by Instructables by interesting engineering was nothing short of a revelation. What immediately captured my attention was the sheer creativity behind the design. The use of glass jars as the primary building material for the greenhouse seemed both ingenious and eco-friendly, offering a unique twist on traditional greenhouse construction methods.
What I personally admire most about this DIY greenhouse plan is its resourcefulness. The idea of repurposing glass jars, something that many of us have lying around or can easily acquire from thrift shops, into a functional greenhouse is both inventive and sustainable. The wooden structures holding the jars together add a rustic charm to the design while ensuring structural integrity.
The versatility of this greenhouse design is another aspect that appeals to me. Not only does it provide ample indoor space for nurturing plants, but the inclusion of jars as mini greenhouses for seedling starters adds an extra layer of functionality. The thought of transforming ordinary glass jars into miniature ecosystems for growing plants is both fascinating and inspiring, showcasing the endless possibilities of DIY creativity.
Furthermore, the attention to detail in the design, such as using jar lids for flooring and incorporating rainwater-catching discs, demonstrates a thoughtful approach to maximizing functionality while minimizing waste. The plan even offers solutions for sourcing the necessary jars, making it accessible to anyone eager to embark on this creative endeavor.
Overall, my personal experience with the DIY greenhouse plan by Instructables by interesting engineering fills me with excitement and curiosity. It represents a perfect blend of innovation, sustainability, and practicality, inviting me to explore the boundaries of my creativity while nurturing a thriving garden sanctuary. I can’t wait to dive into this crazy DIY plan and witness firsthand the magic of turning ordinary glass jars into a spectacular greenhouse masterpiece.
The next plan I am showing you is a recycle idea but it needs creativity.This DIY greenhouse plan by Instructables is so unique that you’ll be blown away by creativity. The whole greenhouse is made using glass jars and lots of glass jars. Wooden structures are holding them together. The jars are not filled and the open mouths are inwards. Not only do you have the indoor space but you can also put plants inside jars (mini greenhouses) which make great seedling starters.
And you know what they used for flooring? The jar lids. YUP! crazy right. Some jar’s mouths are outside and are connected with discs that catch rain water. As if you are wondering where you might find this many jars, one is thrift shops and other solutions on finding them are listed in the plan.
You just need to see this crazy DIY plan for yourself.
If you want to build a small greenhouse, this wooden barn greenhouse plan by ana-white would work best for you. Get started by working on the plan given below: Cut the wall framing from the boards (wood) you have available or you can purchase it for a few dollars easily. Use roofing tin for the side paneling, it would provide strength to the house as well. Use metal flashing to trim the corners of the panels. Cover the entire greenhouse with corrugated roofing.
Build a Small Barn Greenhouse, Image via: ana-white
4- DIY Hoop House
This plan unlike the ones I have showed you earlier is a large size greenhouse. A hoop house is a simple structure made with a few wood boards and PVC pipe. A hoop house can be built to any size and these DIY greenhouse plans on youtube give you the instructions to build a 40 feet structure for large gardening endeavors.
5- DIY Pyramid Shape Greenhouse
Here we have a pyramid shape greenhouse plan with youtube video tutorial. You can also make a diy greenhouse like on this youtube, a stylish one by doing: Take two doors and attach them from the hinges. Place them on the ground in such a way that it looks like an inverted “V” – you can simply keep your plants under this – enjoy gardening!
6- Dome Shaped Green house Plans
If you love assembling the broken triangles, you must construct this kind of a diy greenhouse by northernhomestead– it’s beautiful. You would not see this normally everywhere because it requires time to get completed. You can simply lay the foundations by fixing it in the ground with stakes.
The tough part comes in when you have to get the wood cut in equal length and width – moreover, assembling takes time. You need to have proper measurement and a diagram to get a perfect shape. However, it is fun – you can cover the entire structure with a special kind of greenhouse sheet so get the perfect desired look.
Use 2x6s wood for laying out the basic foundation or frame of greenhouse – measurements solely depend upon the area you want to cover.
Cut 10’ rebar to make a total of four 30” rabar for making the hoop stand. Take the open ended PVC pipes and fix them on the hoop stands. For the better grip, you can simply use screws to tight the PVC pipe and the stand.
Insert strong PVC pipe at the top in order to provide strength to the circular frame.
Cover the entire naked greenhouse with plastic sheet and attach it with the lathe.
Lastly, add the door and the basic wood frame which has plastic covering all around; and you are done.
Build the side frames at first also you must cut the ends of the studs keeping 8 inch difference.
Drill pilot holes in the frames and fix them with the screws.
Make the front and the back of the woodgreenhouse likewise.
Anchor the wooden studs to the top and bottom plats and in the similar manner, fix them with screws.
Lastly, make the door with basic wooden frame and place it on the front side – in order to provide the perfect professional touch, you can coat the entire joint area with the paint of your choice.
Don’t get thrown off by the name. The material used in this greenhouse plan on youtube is easily accessible and cheap. These are plastic, not glass and will withstand accidents. Also, if a panel breaks, it won’t shatter and you can glue or tape it off.
The planner has more than 3 million followers, works readily and knows his way around tools.
The final greenhouse is neat and looks so awesome. Great job done. Here is the video on Youtube where you can learn how to build this greenhouse.
10- Scrap Window Homemade Greenhouse
This kind of homemade greenhouse project like in this youtube video just requires you to make the most of the old and unwanted window frames that are lying in your junkyard. Simply make the basic wooden structure (foundation) and with the help of screws adjust and assemble the windows on it. Add tin roofing and add glass to the windows which have broken ones. Simply add flowers to it so that beauty can be enhanced.
11- Double Decker Greenhouse
By definition it is a greenhouse at Instructables but not much of a greenhouse look. The design is still great using a Recycle, an old swing set into a greenhouse. A shelf is put across the middle to add garden space in between and you can also place pots beneath too.
It makes a great garden in a small space for a short season. It will surely add a couple of weeks of growing time on each end of the season and a nice plant starter.
Make your own greenhouse free from salvaged goodies.
What I like about this greenhouse, its solared powered and have a space to live off grid life. This wooden greenhouseidea by motherearthnews is so well built and attractive, it can double as a guest house. The solar powered wood structure cost under $4,000, and it’s multi-function usage makes it invaluable on a homestead. The covered front porch is the perfect spot for relaxing after a day of garden chores.
Build your own greenhouse by buildeazy with these greenhouse plans that feature a staggered roof for optimum light reception. The sturdy wood frame is covered with clear plastic and the large interior space will enable you to grow plenty of greenhouse vegetables and flowers.
This is a simple structure to build by sowanddipity and can be taken down and stored year after year when it’s no longer needed. Called a tomato fort because it is ideal for sheltering tomatoes from late or early frost and non-stop rain. An hour and less than $50 is all you need to build this greenhouse. You may also like to see diy tomato cage.
Top it off with any type of roofing material you have on hand, since the interior will receive all the sun light needed through the four walls of glass windows.
Greenhouse From Old Windows, Image via: Instructables
You must be having some old doors in your storeroom – it is the perfect time to take them out and make most of them. Follow this simplest green house plan by motherearthnews and instead of side paneling, simply use the old doors – add tin roofing or plastic sheets to make a gorgeous and effective greenhouse for your west garden.
You can make a smart 8ft in height homemade greenhouse like the one at howtospecialist with a beautiful garden – all you need is a lumber frame for the foundation, big window frames for ventilation, and a door of course. You can nail the frame and fix it in the garden with stakes.
I am not sure whether you would be able to collect a 1000 bottle – it is very interesting though! Within the simplest greenhouse structure made from wood by goodshomedesign, you can insert the collected plastic bottles to get the desired kind of greenhouse. I think this idea can work best for small space; you would need to add fewer bottles and get the task done easily.
You will only have to build three sides and a roof for this lean-to stylegreenhouse by runnerduck. Perfect style for building against the backside of a shed or garage that has a southern exposure. Plenty of interior room for growing a wide array of plants and the exterior fits well into the landscape design.
DIY Lean-To Greenhouse (8 x 2), Image via: runnerduck
22- 8×8 Greenhouse Plans
Standard design and size, these building plans by construct101 stick with a tried and true design that maximizes interior space without sacrificing a lot of landscape space. Detailed greenhouse plans make the DIY build go smoothly and the sturdy design will last for years.
If your kids have outgrown their outdoor trampoline and you have wondered what to do with it, here’s the answer. Use the frame to create a diy greenhouse like this one at howdoesshe.
Below are simple step to build this diy greenhouse plan:
Remove trampoline tarp and springs
Take the frame apart in two equal sections to create two half circles
Place half of frame on end with rounded side facing up and legs facing inward on one end of garden.
Repeat with other frame half on the opposite end of garden.
Use bamboo poles for building aDIY greenhouse by premeditatedleftovers for the ultimate in sustainability. Bamboo is a renewable resource that is strong and easy to build with, lasting for several years before it needs to be replaced.
This ingenious design creates a cover made from PVC pipe and plastic that is raised and lowered as needed over garden beds. This style of DIY PVC Greenhouse by apartmenttherapy can be built to fit existing raised bed gardens. Hinges hold the covered diy pvc greenhouse top to the wood frame bottom and the lightweight material makes it easy to raise and lower as needed.
Greenhouse cover made from PVC pipe and plastic, Image via: apartmenttherapy
28- Tabletop Greenhouse Plan
A small space can house a lot of growing plants when the design is right. This easy to buildtabletop greenhouse by dremel is portable, so it can placed in the best location for sun reception any time of the year. The mobile design allows for year around plant growth and food production.
This is a pre-fab type of structure that includes all the building materials and DIY greenhouse plans at dremel. The frame is designed in a chalet style and the see-through walls allow you to look inside the greenhouse from any place in the backyard. Grow tropical plants inside this DIY greenhouse regardless of the climate you live in so you can enjoy a tropical view even when snow is on the ground.
The style of this budget-friendlyDIY greenhouse by theelliotthomestead will remind you of an old-world European-style farmhouse and will compliment any backyard. Learn how to build a greenhouse that is both beautiful and functional so you can grow plants year-around. The building material is budget-friendly and durable so this DIY greenhouse will last for many years.
Do you have old windows stored up from a previous window upgrade? Do you know where you can find some old windows? If you can answer ‘yes’ to either question then you can build this adorable and functional old window greenhouse by gardentherapy almost no money.
Use these plans and learn how to make a greenhouse from old windows, some leftover lumber and old windows. The greenhouse size is ideal for small backyards and the design will make it an attractive addition to the landscape.
Old World Style Greenhouse, Image via: gardentherapy
32- Back Door DIY Greenhouse (10 x 6.5)
It can be challenging to find the space in a small backyard for a greenhouse, but these greenhouse plans will show you a space-saving idea. These wood greenhouse plans will show you how to build a greenhouse right outside your back door. ThisDIY greenhouse by tomsgardens becomes a walk-through structure that takes you from inside your home to the outside. You won’t even get cold during the winter months when you visit the plants.
Build this DIY greenhouse by blackanddecker on a budget with a little lumber covered with plastic sheeting. The plastic sheeting is light-weight, durable, and holds the heat in while keeping the cold out. Ideal for a low-budget build and small back yard. The DIY structure is large enough to grow food-producing plants from seeds through maturity.
A lean-to greenhouse like this one is great for building on a budget. Learn how to transform old windows and leftover lumber into a small but functional greenhouse. By learning how to make a greenhouse at fabulesslyfrugal that leans up against another structure you can reduce the number of walls you need to build, so you save both time and money.
Old wood pallets can be recycled and used to build almost anything, including a DIY greenhouse. Get some wood pallets and follow these free greenhouse plans by thegreenlever so you can build your own attractive and productive greenhouse. The recycled pallet wood creates the frame of the structure, and recycled windows are used to build the rest of the structure. This budget-friendly DIY project is almost free to build and will last for years.
These free PVC greenhouse plans by web.archive.org will show you how to transform inexpensive PVC pipes and plastic sheeting into a functional greenhouse. Start garden plants and flowers from seeds and keep them growing all year inside this PVC hoop house.
The sturdy plastic sheeting can withstand most winter weather and is easy and cheap to replace every few years. The PVC is made from durable plastic and will last for many years in most climates.
Follow the greenhouse plans on this YouTube video and build a budget-friendly structure for growing plants year-round. This detailed YouTube video walks you through the easy building process so you can complete this DIY project in just one weekend.
38- Mobile Home Conversion
A vacant mobile home can easily and cheaply be converted into a portable greenhouse like this one at motherearthnews. These detailed greenhouse plans will take you through the conversion process so you can convert any size mobile home into a structure that will grow an abundance on plants year-around.
This is a great idea for off-grid homesteaders who need a secure place for growing food. Wildlife would have a difficult time destroying crops and food can be grown year-round.
These budget-friendly greenhouse plans by backwoodshome will show you how to transform existing garden beds into a grow house for year-around plant production. Ideal for homesteaders who need a steady supply of fresh food or for home gardeners that just want to extend the growing season a few extra weeks without spending much money.
Use these free detailed instructions to build a dome greenhouse out of recycled wood pallets and plastic. The shape of the structure in unconventional but it allows full sun exposure to all plants growing inside and protects the plant from the elements. Use these greenhouse plans by instructables to create this functional dome shape grow house for your plants.
This homemade greenhouse idea by instructables is great for small gardens or when a small number of young plants need early or late-season protection. This modular shape is cheap and easy to build, plus it’s light-weight and portable. Move it as needed to protect garden plants from frost. A little left-over lumber and plastic sheeting are all that’s needed for this easy DIY project.
This is a great idea for a raised garden bed by wayneofthewoods and will allow you to start seeds much earlier in the spring and continue growing plants until early winter. Plastic can be removed and replaced as the weather changes to provide insulating warmth to growing plants. Help plants produce longer and more abundantly with this budget-friendly DIY greenhouse.
This DIY greenhouse by instructables is perfect for cold climates that receive heavy snowfall during the winter. The structure is sturdy enough to withstand the weight of snow and holds the interior heat during the frigid winter temperatures so plants can thrive. This DIY project is also easy on the budget and can be built for under $50.
Here is a great idea for those who like to dabble with electronics and gardening – a DIYautomated greenhouse by instructables. Its a small design but great for starting seeds and propagating plants. It’s small design will also fit perfectly onto a patio or balcony.
Automated Greenhouse For patio or balcony, Image via: instructables
45- Adorable DIY Greenhouse
This greenhouse design is small, adorable, and very efficient, perfect for a small backyard. A few old windows, leftover lumber, and leftover paint can be transformed into this adorable DIY greenhouse by montanawildlifegardener. The space can be used for all gardening needs since it contains a sink and can double as a She-Shed for those moments when you need a little quiet time.
Learn how you can make an A frame DIY greenhouse on youtube. There are lots of tips and tricks in this youtube video. The greenhouse was very efficiently designed and there were hardly any scraps leftover. The planner knows that plastic panels are expensive so the cuttings were minimal.
There is a built-in vent on the back for proper aeration. A closed greenhouse will burn your plants. It only took the DIYer 3 hours to just get the whole thing framed up.
Audio/video, editing, descriptions, purpose, efficiencies, and script, everything is at its best. Nailed it. Easily build your own greenhouse by watching this plan.
47- Greenhouse from Vintage Windows
This greenhouse by hometalk is so pretty and well-made that it looks like straight out of a fairytale. It was made using vintage windows. We all have some vintage (good for nothing windows) laying around but, in this case, they are purposefully reused. Even if you don’t have them, you can easily find them in Restores or on online classified sites. They make into great greenhouses.
Another great thing is that some of the windows open, acting as vents so that your plants don’t burn out by excessive heat. The end product is lovely and sturdy. Perfect for growing vegetables in winters.
Greenhouse from Vintage Windows, Image via: hometalk
48- DIY Lean-to Greenhouse
Another versatile idea. This is a lean-to greenhouse plan by empressofdirt. It is attached to the side of the house and you can operate from the insides. If you happen to have an available exterior wall in a sunny location but not much space, this plan was definitely carved out for you. It has plant shelves at waist-height for easy reach. To increase the plant space, you can add more wire shelves. A thermometer with humidity readings and the possibility of installing automatic air vents and misting systems make this plan great.
All the tools and steps are clearly listed in the comprehensive read.
The aluminum withstands harsh weather and is resilient and sturdy. It is strong yet lightweight while the polycarbonate is virtually unbreakable.
Each and everything are listed and told in the extensive read. All the info is under so many bold headings. They covered up everything. There is video too if you believe in seeing rather than reading. This greenhouse will extend your growing season and is perfectly sealed which ensures that no insect pest from outside can scurry their way in it.
Aluminum and Polycarbonate DIY Greenhouse, Image via: handymanmagazine
50- Cheapest DIY Greenhouse Ever
Get instructions on how to build this super cheap functional greenhouse in this youtube video in only 20 dollars. It has fold up walls made of plastic. This whole plan was very clear and quick. Exactly what you’ll be looking for if you are plain on tools and want a portable one; no fancy measurements, no fancy carpenter language, simple.
51- Full Greenhouse Build Plan
One of the best greenhouse plans on youtube as compared to other ones we have shared with you. There are some serious skills involved in this Youtube video tutorial, so much precision. This is a mega project, 4 months of work shown in only 4 minutes. From start to finish and if you know your way around a saw, a pressure hammer and measurements, you can easily make this big greenhouse. It looks so sturdy and well-structured that it is bound to last for decades. The whole family helps and works on it and they make it happen.
Impressive, a lot of great ideas and design features involved.
52- DIY Greenhouse for Just £60
No matter how small your budget, this DIY greenhouse plan by idealhome truly proves that it doesn’t matter. And the look of this, oh my gosh. This doesn’t look that fancy looking this big of a greenhouse was made for just £60. Other than this being cheap, another best thing is that it can be easily dismantled when needed.
Hanging seasoned branches and ambient fairy lights adds a rustic touch of personality. This creativity is of a true DIYer.
It is so neat and efficient, how did the DIYer manage to pull that off? Well, you have to find out for yourself.
This whole plan is a rebuild from scratch. This DIY Greenhouse by instructables is made using recycled hardwood windows, all double glazing. The double glazing provides insulation in winters and traps the heat and keeps the cold outside, protecting crops from harsh weather.
These windows require no painting or carpentry and will last at least 30 + years without anyone even taking care of them. There are also Google Sketchup drawings for you to get an idea. Not 1 but 4 designs.
Article is pretty comprehensive with everything clear and well explained with tips here and there.
DIY Greenhouse with 100 % Recycled Materials, Image via: instructables
54- Hydroponic Food Factory
Versatility is good and this plan here is an example. Most of you know how to make a simple DIY hydroponic like this one by instructables using PVC pipes but when winter comes, it stops working. This idea here is infused with a portable, mini slender greenhouse DIYed using PVC pipes and a baby crib which can keep your Hydroponic system working even in winters. It is more like a cold frame.
It houses your hydroponic structure or you can switch out and grow other plants. You can grow potatoes, strawberries, lettuce and celery and many other greens in this.
I suggest this mini greenhouse to those who have limited space and growing plants in pots. A true definition of mini. This cute looking DIY Greenhouse by instructables can house your couple of plant pots that you always wanted to be protected from harsh winter cold. You can easily move it around and it takes very little space.
The DIY plan consists of only 4 steps with 3 supplies, this simple.
If one is not enough for you, you can make many mini ones reusing the same design.
Mini Greenhouse from a Pallet, Image via: instructables
Sometimes a polytunnel is also included in greenhouse plans like this one on youtube. Who knows a polytunnel plan might be the answer to your greenhouse requirement? You’ll definitely like the design and maybe want to build this one.
It is a two-person job. Maybe invite your friend over for a cup of tea and have at it. You will make it in no mean time. All the materials are listed in the description alongside the time they were used in the video.
They also have a playlist for individual construction videos on Youtube and reply to your queries in comments.
Wraping UP
Extending the growing season or taking a jump start to spring is easy when you have many types of greenhouse options to consider. You can go from small to large, wood to glass, hoop style to lean greenhouse, from just 20$ to expensive one depending upon your scale to grow and budget on hand.
Hope we have helped you in your decision to make a greenhouse! If you like the post or have any more ideas please don’t forget to share and give your feedback in the comment section.
Here we have prepared a questionnaire to answer some common questions.
FAQ’s
What is the best greenhouse design for hot climates?
We recommend a greenhouse that has plenty of ventilation for use in a hot climate. One with easy to open sides so that the structure will have good air flow. You may want to consider a greenhouse that has open sides that are covered with insect netting if you live in a hot climate.
How can I heat my greenhouse cheaply?
Using solar panels to harvest the energy of the sun will be the cheapest way to heat your greenhouse. The number of solar panels needed will depend on the size of your greenhouse.
Another cheap method for heating a greenhouse is to place black plastic bottles filled with water inside the structure. The black plastic will absorb heat and warm the water inside of the bottle and raise the temperature of the greenhouse.
What material is used for greenhouses?
The greenhouse frame can be built from wood or metal. The covering should be clear or semi-clear plastic or glass. The plastic can be sheeting or rigid acrylic panels. The goal of the covering material is to allow as much sunlight as possible to enter the greenhouse.
Which vegetables are easy to grow in a greenhouse?
For beginners, we recommend easy care plants like carrots, onions, kale, zucchini, turnips, and eggplants. Herbs are typically easy to grow in a greenhouse too. An experienced gardener may want to try growing tomatoes and cucumbers.
References:
National Geographic, “The Greenhouse Effect and our Planet”, https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/greenhouse-effect-our-planet/
Education, Royal Society Of Chemistry, “Climate Change: The greenhouse effect and global warming”, https://edu.rsc.org/resources/the-greenhouse-effect-and-global-warming/767.article
Chelsea Green Publishing, Farming & Homesteading, “Not Level? No Problem. How to Build a Greenhouse on a Slope”, https://www.chelseagreen.com/2023/how-to-build-greenhouse-on-slope/
Greenhouses can be a great way to help gardeners gain some extra time at the beginning or end of the growing season. DIY PVC greenhouse design plans can range from very complex to extremely simple. My goal is to give the average gardener the ability to create a greenhouse design that is both inexpensive and easy to build on their own.
Simple greenhouse PVC frame designsthat feature PVC pipe construction are lightweight, easy to assemble, and the supplies are easily found at any hardware store or big box store. There are many DIY PVC greenhouse plans that can be recreated by any gardeners. Cutting the PVC pipe can be done with a hand saw or a squeeze-type pipe cutter for fast and simple construction.
Here we have collected 11 DIY greenhouse plans featuring PVC pipe and plastic sheeting construction.
1- DIY Moveable PVC Greenhouse
Looking for a way to extend the growing season for your garden crops or starting the season early? Building a PVC greenhouse by Instructables that resembles a high tunnel like we have in this plan can be the solution you need to extend the life of your green house plants. This tutorial and video shows how to build a DIY PVC greenhouse.
This five foot by five foot DIY PVC greenhouse can be built for under $25. Using PVC plumbing parts and plastic sheeting, this greenhouse can be built in less than one day. This tutorial has a list of required supplies. PVC connections are secured using PVC primer and cement.
The small size of this moveable indoor greenhouse creates the ability to use it on the lawn, on the patio, to cover containers from nightly frost, etc. The plastic sheeting is inexpensive and easily purchased, making replacement if damaged a simple fix. Give this DIY PVC greenhouse a try and you will not be disappointed in the results.
This twelve foot by thirty foot DIY PVC greenhouse by Ladylees Home would be a great option for many gardens. Everyone who owns a greenhouse will tell you that they should have made it bigger. This tutorial’s design was created for a farm but can be used in a yard as well.
The materials needed to construct this DIY walk-in PVC greenhouse come out to approximately $360. Prices can be reduced if you are using or recycling some of the supplies from other uses such as scrap wood and extra plumbing supplies. The base of the greenhouse is made of wood screwed together like a raised bed.
The PVC pipes are connected to rebar staked into the ground around the wood foundation frame. This tutorial tells an unfortunate detail about using PVC pipe and plastic sheeting in snowy weather. The weight of the snow can collapse the plastic sheeting. Plan to remedy this if it remains in use year-round.
DIY Large Walk-in PVC Greenhouse, Image via: Ladylees Home
3- DIY Raised Bed PVC Greenhouse
A raised bed greenhouse is a great option to use in place of a cold frame. Having a raised bed means that the ground may not freeze. The plastic on the frame can also heat the soil as well as provide a humid environment for water retention.
Here we have a video tutorial that goes through the benefits of using a PVC raised bed frame as a greenhouse by GNH Lumber. The best thing we like about this DIY PVC greenhouse frame is that you can make the plastic removable so that you can control the heat and avoid rain or snow destroying the plastic on the frame.
Building this DIY PVC greenhouse, the frame is built out of two foot sections that are connected. In the tutorial, it is explained that the sections are not glued together so that it can be easily deconstructed and stored when not in use.
DIY Raised Bed PVC Greenhouse, Image via: GNH Lumber
4- DIY PVC Propagation Greenhouse
Constzucting a smaller, walk-in greenhouse with more permanent front and back panels is a good option. In this tutorial you will see additional resources including PVC greenhouse plans in pdf that they found while in the planning stage. This greenhouse tutorial by web.archive is aimed at helping gardeners start seeds earlier in the season for earlier harvests.
The low budget and smaller size of greenhouse is great for many DIY gardeners with room to grow. The supplies are readily available. In the tutorial they offer many considerations for the size of the plants, the weather (rain/snow), and the budget. This tutorial is very well thought out for other DIYers to follow.
The best thing we like about this DIY PVC greenhouse is that it also utilizes crossbars that go across the PVC hoops. The addition of crossbars helps distribute the weight of water or snow and makes damage less of an issue. This tutorial also implements a system of ceiling braces to support the top of the greenhouse from collapsing in on itself.
This pvc greenhouse on youtube is constructed to cover garden beds as long as fifty feet in this in-depth walkthrough video tutorial. This tutorial explains why they went with a different PVC pipe material. The grey electrical PVC pipe is apparently more resistant to UV damage by the sun.
The hoops are made of 2.5-inch diameter PVC pipe. There are two sections of ten foot lengths connected at the top of the greenhouse to make twenty foot hoops. The larger hoops greenhouse allow for a taller design. This tutorial is loaded with a lot of good knowledge and information for the DIY gardener.
The standard plastic sheeting is supposed to last up to four years of use. One thing this tutorial shares is that the PVC can react to the plastic sheeting. There are many remedies to fix this issue, including painting and covering the PVC with duct tape where it touches the plastic sheeting.
6- DIY PVC Arch Greenhouse
This Youtube video tutorial is a quick guide to constructing a PVC greenhouse that is simple yet effective. The four minute tutorial shows all of the supplies needed and how to put them together to create a simple design. The tutorial comes as a kit but the design is easy to follow and the supplies can be found at any local hardware store.
The structure of the DIY PVC greenhouse on Youtube is built entirely with PVC pipe and PVC fittings making for a seamless and simple design. No worry about using wood on the ground or securing the hoops to stakes in the ground for added support. The tutorial is easy to follow and also comes with door frames built into the structure for added benefits.
The plastic sheeting can be secured to the PVC frame using snap clamps. This design is also light enough to be moved around and can be moved over garden beds. For securing the greenhouse so the wind is not able to move it, you can use rope tiedowns with stakes.
7- DIY PVC Greenhouse with Printed Plans
If you want a greenhouse design that is simple and provides easy written assembly instructions, we found this tutorial an awesome for you. This project features DIY PVC greenhouse plans by Pvc Plans in printable pdf format. Simply print the pdf version of the plans and take the supply list to the hardware store.
Different from other tutorials, this version uses smaller one and one-fourth inch diameter PVC pipe for construction. The smaller diameter pipe allows for more bendability in the construction. This printable pdf design features a door frame for access and reducing heat and humidity buildup in the sun.
PVC Greenhouse with Printed Plans, Image via: Pvc Plans
8- DIY Low Cost PVC Greenhouse
Creating a low cost greenhouse designthat provides the effectiveness you need is what this tutorial provides DIY gardeners. The design of this greenhouse can withstand high winds and rain. This tutorial is designed to be used in many different parts of the world to enhance gardening and food crop growth.
The larger base foundation helps this DIY PVC greenhouse frame by Den Garden be sturdy and stand up to weather conditions. Cutting the PVC pipe material just needs a hack saw available at any local hardware store. The greenhouse tutorial instructs DIYers to secure the joints of PVC and use snap clamps.
The total cost of materials for this project will be about $250 which creates a fourteen by twenty foot greenhouse. This tutorial also uses electrical conduit PVC pipe for the low cost. This tutorial features a cost and estimated costs list for easy shopping and budgeting.
DIY Low Cost PVC Greenhouse, Image via: Den Garden
9- DIY Gable Greenhouse Design Plans
This tutorial differs from other greenhouse plans as it features more of a house design. A pitched roof makes rain and snow less likely to be able to collect on top of the plastic. Featuring the construction of a six foot by nine foot DIY PVC greenhouse design by Little Green House, there are many clear instructions to this design.
This written tutorial uses one-inch PVC pipe for construction of the gable design. The gable design also features a door. The website for this greenhouse design features several other greenhouse designs and kits with free printable plans for easy construction.
10- DIY Collapsible and Portable PVC Greenhouse Frame
Rejecting the notion of spending a lot of money on greenhouse kits, this tutorial aims to create an inexpensive option for the average gardener. This tutorial aims at getting to the basics of being a good option at the lowest cost possible. Going green should not mean adding more money to the budget.
The greenhouse plan design by Homemade Hints will only cost $35 to recreate on your own. It is best to use this design over the top of a raised bed, especially in colder climates. This greenhouse design attaches the PVC pipes with zip ties.
The greenhouse will also deter pests from infiltrating your garden plants. It holds up to weather well with its pitched roof design. It can be taken down simply by detaching the connections just like camping tent poles. Try this tutorial out for a simple and easy solution.
This DIY PVC greenhouse on youtube features a five foot by five foot frame with five foot high walls and an even taller roof. The frame design features one inch PVC pipe construction. The plastic sheeting used is sold at the store as drop cloth for painting purposes.
Modifications to the PVC construction are simple and easy with a hand saw and additional joint connector pieces. The design is small and easy enough to pull apart and store away for winter months. Total cost of supplies for this greenhouse design is around $25.
With lumber prices being so high following the pandemic and home-building supplies at limited quantities, using PVC pipe from plumbing or electrical supplies is a great solution.
DIY PVC greenhouse designs are an inexpensive option for many gardeners to fix weather conditions that cut growing season short. The lightweight and low cost construction of PVC greenhouses can make these DIY greenhouses a simple and easy solution for any gardener.
Summary
Pvc greenhouses are light, easy to make and a low budget option for small gardeners. By building one of the above pvc greenhouse you can extend your growing season and start earlier before spring. We hope the above pvc greenhouses we have shared with you can help you in making your own custom design pvc greenhouse.
A DIY mini greenhouse is the ideal solution for plant growing and seed starting in small spaces. Not everyone has a large outdoor space to accommodate a full size green house, but even apartment dwellers can enjoy the benefits of a DIY small greenhouse.
Tiny greenhouses have a variety of uses, like nursing sick plants back to health, growing fresh herbs and vegetables, propagating plants, starting plants from seeds and over-wintering plants.
Check out our list of these 12 DIY mini greenhouse ideas to find the right one to meet your plant growing needs.
Recycled Windows
These smallgreenhouse plans by balconygardenweb show you how to recycle five old windows and a wooden pallet into a functional greenhouse. All you need to build this diy mini greenhouse are:
Four equal sized windows and one smaller window.
One wooden pallet.
Clean window glass.
Join the four same size windows with screws to form a box.
Place smaller window on top of box and mark where it ends.
Remove small window and use wood slats from pallet to fill in the gap on top. Attach slats with screws.
Place window back on top and attach to wood slats with two hinges for easy opening.
This design uses five windows to create a diy small greenhouse by blackanddecker that is portable and functional. Three windows are the same size and are used to create two opposite sides and top lid, and two smaller windows are used to create the front and back. No extra wood is needed, the wood framed windows are screwed to each other. Easy to move as-is, easy to take apart when no longer needed. You may also like to check out wooden greenhouses.
A wood frame and a few storm windows makes a nice homemade greenhouse
Measure storm windows and use 2x4s to create a box which the storm windows will be attached to.
Three storm windows are used for this design – one for the front and two for the sides. A back and top are not needed since this. small greenhouse sits on a covered porch with the back against the exterior of the house.
Attach the two side windows to the frame with screws.
Attach the front window with hinges so it can be opened.
Fold Up DIY Mini Greenhouse
This mini greenhouse design by rockler is tall enough to stand upright inside of and built to be folded and put away when not in use. This design is great for gardeners who want to start plants from seeds in the late winter and extend their growing season in late fall. Easy to fold and store when not in use. You may also like to check out homemade greenhouses.
Adorable and functional, this greenhouse desigcraftsalamoden by easily becomes a part of the outdoor landscape decor while providing an interior that promotes plant growth. Six windows create the four sides design with a pitched roof.
This mini greenhouse is easy to build and fits nicely on a table top. Use these free plans to create a safe, warm environment for ailing houseplants or for showcasing houseplants outdoors. This mini green house by wonderwood.no is inexpensive and easy to build and is created from large photo frames.
Convert your raised bed garden into asmallgreenhouse like this one by doityourself to extend your growing season. Create a hoop structure over the raised bed with PVC pipes and cover with white plastic sheeting. Perfect for starting garden seeds in the raised beds and for growing crops all the way into early winter. Plastic is removed and replaced as needed while PVC pipe hoop frame is left in place. You may also like to see 12 ideas to build a hoop house.
Recycling and ingenuity at its finest. Old, clear plastic CD cases can be transformed into a functional diy mini greenhouse with this idea by megacrafty. Use clear glue to attach CD cases to each other and create the size and shape you want. Apply painter’s tape to hold the cases together until the glue dries. No need to build a frame for this sturdy design. You may also like to check out cold frame plans.
This is the simplest diy mini greenhousedesign by alittlebitwonderful of all – a clear umbrella opened and placed over a large container of seed or plants. Perfect for an herb garden and/or for someone who lacks DIY skills. Fill a large, round container with potting soil, plant herb seeds and stick the pole of a clear, opened umbrella in the center of the soil. Allow 1-2 inches of space between the bottom of the umbrella and the container for air flow.
In a previous article we discussed the numerous benefits of cold frame gardening and how to extend your growing season by weeks, and in some cases months. Having your own diy greenhouse is a wonderful asset to any home gardener, but cold frames are the next best thing. They are inexpensive, versatile, and easy to build. Here are some diy cold frame plans we gathered from the internet that will help get you started.
1. PVC DIY Cold Frame
PVC is lightweight, portable, and very durable. Frames constructed out of PVC piping, and a strong sheet of plastic for the cover, are light enough to be moved from one part of the garden to another. After using for seed starting and hardening off, place the pvc cold frame by pvcplans over tender lettuce plants in the fall and harvest in early winter.
Here is a planfor a very attractive DIY cold frame by thisoldhouse using a recycled window for the top. This one has been placed on a foundation of bricks and is more permanent in nature than the lightweight PVC model above.
Here are brief steps to build a diy cold frame
Measure the length of log side of window to get the length of one front and two back piece.
Cut the pieces to the length.
Mark and cut the angle.
Mark and cut the tall and short Battens. Then glue and screw the Battens
Cut and position the back pattern. After that glue and screw the back Battens.
Glue the four side together and attach hinges.
Install the pavers, lid and handle.
Cut the vent rod and position the frame.
This Old House Cold Frame Plans, Image via: thisoldhouse
3. The Instructable Plan
Again, this is a diy Cold frame by instructables that incorporates the use of recycled windows. You will notice that this diy cold frame is a bit deeper than most which is great for taller growing plants. As with all plans using old windows, take the time really clean them up, re-caulking if necessary, and paint the box itself with whatever color you like. This will help with durability.
The Instructable cold frame Plan, Image via: instructables
4. The Seed Library Cold Frame Plan
For those of us with little time to spare, here is a cold frame plan by hudsonvalleyseed that is easy to implement and pretty inexpensive. It uses a product called Suntuf, a poly-carbonate material for the frame itself, but this isn’t really necessary. Any scrap wood will do the trick and save you some money along the way. Once again, take a little time to prep the wood and it will last for years. You may also like to read Vegetables To Grow In A Greenhouse.
A good cold frame by sacgardens will heat up during the day, almost as much and sometimes more than a homemade greenhouse. This one is simple yet very attractive and uses basement window well covers for the top. The plans call for pressure treated lumber and the frame can be placed on a brick or cement block foundation. Pressure treated is heavy so don’t plan on moving this cold frame around without a little help.
The Sacgardens Cold Frame Plan, Image via: sacgardens
6. DIY Cold Frame From PPG
This is a plan for a very simple 5’ x 5’ cold frame by pondplantgirl that will cost less than $30. It won’t look as natural as some of the wooden frames discussed above and the plastic covers won’t last as long as the recycled windows, but it will get the job done. You may also like to read DIY Wood Greenhouses.
The Vegetable Gardener diy cold frame by finegardening focuses on a lightweight top for ease of opening and propping up on warm days. In this case the top is made of a clear 8-mil thick sheet of vinyl stapled to the edge of the lumber framed top. Obviously, the vinyl is very lightweight, but over time it will deteriorate and crack, usually within a couple of years and you will have to replace it.
This isn’t a big job…just cut a new piece to the right size and re-staple. As you can see the cold frame itself is very well made and even incorporates a Uni-vent system for automatically raising and lowering the top based on the interior temperature.
Here are brief instructions to build this diy cold frame:
Cut SUNTUF panel in half in a way so that you have four panel that are 26″ wide by 48″ tall.
Make the Frame for the lid.
Finishing the lid. Using the drill bit make hole in every other valley of each panel’s ribbing along the top and bottom edges.
Make the frame for cold frame.
Attache the lid on the frame by using hinges and short screws.
The cold frame is ready.
The Vegetable Gardener Cold Frame Design, Image via: finegardening
8. The Grit DIY Cold Frame
If you really want to build an elaborate diy cold frame by grit consider the FarmTek model. This could almost be called a “hoop house” and can be constructed on a pretty large scale. This one is 12 feet long and uses a very heavy plastic to cover the four foot high hoops. You can certainly fit a lot of plants, even the tall ones, in this spacious frame.
Here is a plan by hgtv that incorporates a little extra feature…insulation. While the finished diy cold frame looks like many of the others we discussed here, this one has insulated sides. The insulation is simple to install and will definitely help with heat retention. Be careful however even young plants don’t tolerate heat very well, so make sure you let some of that insulated heat escape when the outside temperature creeps up near 50 degrees. You may also like to read DIY Mini Greenhouses.
The DIY Network’s Cold Frame Plans, Image via: hgtv
10. DIY Cold Frame Plan By SFC.Small Farmcentral
This diy cold frame by sfc.smallfarmcentral is made by using old window, scrap wood and hinges with screw. Remember few important things while making this type of cold frame such as keep the back tall than front side and boxes to short as compared to window for rain to run off.
Recycle Window DIY Cold Frame Idea By SFC.Small Farmcentral, Image via: sfc.smallfarmcentral
Wraping Up
Cold frames are nothing more than miniature greenhouses. If you build a couple right now, you’ll be off to a roaring start next spring and you’ll end the season well after the snow arrives. If you love to garden, get into cold frame gardening. You’ll be glad you did!
There is a great difference between the crops grown as starter plants and the greenhouse vegetables. Masses tend to grow vegetables and fruits in their greenhouse where they’ve control environment to control temperature, providing heat, extend the growing season and to protect them from frosting.
However, if you are new to gardening and planting fruits and vegetables, then you must be having good ideas what to grow in a greenhouse. God has bestowed countless variety upon us, so how can you select which are the best vegetables to grow in the greenhouse? Simply start with easy vegetables to grow so that within a year you get hands on them, so the next season you can continue to grow even the complicated ones.
1. Spinach:
It is one of the most grown best greenhouse plants – if you want to enjoy the freshest and tastiest spinach, cut it from the garden and cook it immediately. It is so healthy that you can increase your intake of vitamins and minerals instantly. Most importantly, you would never face trouble with growing and maintaining this greenhouse vegetable.
2: Leafy greens:
You must start with something that belongs to “salad family” – almost every other leafy vegetable grows in the same manner, especially when considering the bedding green house plants. Other than the basic knowledge, there is some aesthetic knowledge needed as well when growing leafy vegetables. They have varying tastes and colors – they make the perfect starters and sidelines. These can be a great source of income as you can sell them to various grocery stores and even wholesalers.
3: Micro greens:
In simpler words, you can grow the lovely looking and with a mouthwatering taste Tatsoi, Beet, Peas, Choi and radish etc. they are extremely loved as sidelines and with as snacks. Once you have good knowledge, you can mix the varieties and make second-generation micro greens at your own. You may also like to see shade loving vegetables.
You must have been grown up eating cucumber salads or even the raw pieces with salt. They taste simply wonderful – however, growing them is not that simple. You need to shrink wrap them so that their freshness can be retained after harvesting.
5. Tomatoes:
Most of the greenhouses have tomatoes in various colors and shapes – they are easy to handle specially the beefsteak varieties.
6. Peppers:
Peppers are loved all over the world – they simply make the dishes tastier. To your surprise, there is a great variety of peppers that you can easily grow in your greenhouse. They have light to intense taste and colors are mind-blowing. You may also like to see vegetables garden planners.
7: Herbs:
You might be interested in growing greenhouse vegetables indoor – herbs are the perfect in roots and without it as well. You can enhance the tastes of your meal with basil, cilantro and watercress etc.
8:Squash and Swiss chard:
They can be enjoyed planting and eating because they come in massive variety – they can even help you earn money by selling it to end users.
9: Citrus fruits:
You can grow a number of winter fruits in your greenhouse – these include sweet and sour, delicious looking melons, oranges and lemons. They have the ability to sustain even the coldest weather, so enjoy your winter evenings with juicy fruits.
10: Grapes:
Many do not know that the grapes can even be grown in the greenhouse – many free greenhouse plans can highlight details for you. You have to protect them from pests and take special care of the varieties like “black ham burgh” and “Buckland Sweetwater”.
11: Strawberries:
Fill your greenhouse with tasty strawberries this season – you can grow whatever type you want. Just make sure you provide them with sufficient space and ventilation.
12: Peaches:
It is very important for a newbie to select the right kind of greenhouse fruits and veggies. For example, peaches are extremely good to grow in the greenhouses or small gardens. They are nourishing and simple to handle too.
13: Coriander:
You cannot miss out the refreshing leafy greenhouse vegetable, which is perfect topping for salads and soups. You simply need to pay attention while the plant is growing, as it requires proper aeration and water. You may also like to see fast growing vegetables.
14: Chilies:
You can even keep a corner of the greenhouse to plant chilies – it can include green chilies and red ones too. It solely depends upon the kind of flavor you would like to have.
15:Raspberries:
You can actually do a very good business by growing raspberries – supply them to cake bakers and enjoy the money. In addition, they are so tasty that you can add as many in your delicious fruit salads and please the guests too. They are also ideal to blend with milk and have it in the form to shakes.
Therefore, now you must be clear enough how to start and what can you grow in a greenhouse. Greenhouse vegetable gardening is not only rewarding but also fun activity too.
Hoop house can change the most difficult time of year for a gardener into an exciting time of year especially when you have some free plans. Nothing grows naturally during the cold winter months, but with a little gardening know-how and a DIY hoop house, you can manipulate the seasons and grow fresh produce even when there’s snow on the ground.
Look over our round up of hoop house plans for building your own hoop house so you can extend the gardening season throughout winter.
1- Build 165 Square ft Hoop House Plan Just Under 50$
Use this plan for building your own PVC hoop greenhouse like this one by doorgarden for less than one dollar per square foot. Cheap, easy and enabling you to grow food and flowers all winter, this greenhouse is a winner.
Build 165 Square ft Hoop House Just Under 50$, Image via: doorgarden
2-Try This Winter Proof Hoop House Plans(300 sq.ft)Under 300$
When a lot of indoor growing space is needed during the winter, but you live in a region that has high, blustering winter winds, we suggest you to try these plastic greenhouse plans by naturallivingideas. The design makes it windproof and perfect for year around garden use.
With 18 feet of width and 30 feet of length, you can grow anything you want in this protected garden space. Easy, low-cost design makes this a great DIY hoop house when you are propagating plants for a retail business.
Constructing A Simple PVC High Tunnel (30’ long by 18’ wide), Image via: hightunnels
4-Use Concrete Reinforcing Wire To Make DIY Hoop House Cold Frame
Use Concrete Reinforcing Wire To Make DIY Hoop House Cold Frame, Image via: instructables
5-Portable Hoop House Plans
Very simple, yet very effective. These designs allows you to quickly construct a portable hoop house like this one by menards over existing raised garden beds to protect plants from an early frost in fall or late frost in spring. A great way to keep your plants warm in fall so they can ripen their final produce of the season.
6-Get Instructions To Make DIY Hoop House Over Garden Bed
The perfect fit for a small raised garden bed. This DIY hoop house plan by mikesbackyardnursery is slight bigger than a cloche, but smaller than a plastic greenhouse and is a perfect solution for small garden beds.
Get Instructions To Make DIY Hoop House Over Garden Bed, Image via: mikesbackyardnursery
7-Retractable Hoop House Plans
When days are warm and nights are cold, garden plants need part-time protection from the elements. These plans for a retractable hoop house by grit can be built to fit an existing raised bed are the perfect solution for those in-between seasons of fall/winter and winter/summer.
Not every gardener wants or needs a plastic greenhouse in which they can walk inside and work. If you just need a simple, easy to assemble design that will protect your plants and extend the growing season, we recommend these DIY low hoop house plans by hgtv are right for you. You may also like to see wooden greenhouse plans.
Hoop house is similar to other types of greenhouses we shared with you in other articles, the only difference is it has a shape of hoop and is covered by a plastic sheet. Hope you like the above 12 hoop houses we have shown you. You can pick any of the above hoop houses you like the most.
When I embarked on the journey of building a lean-to greenhouse, it wasn’t just about creating a space for my plants; it was about creating a haven for my passion for gardening. I vividly recall the excitement of planning and constructing this greenhouse, envisioning how it would revolutionize my gardening experience.
As I built the structure against the sturdy wall of my house, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. It was more than just assembling materials; it was a tangible manifestation of my dedication to nurturing green life. Each step of the construction process was filled with anticipation, knowing that soon I would have a sheltered space where my plants could thrive.
Once completed, the benefits of the lean-to design became apparent. The solid wall absorbed the warmth of the sun during the day, providing a stable and conducive environment for my plants. Even as the evening chill set in, the greenhouse retained the heat, ensuring that my botanical companions remained cozy and protected.
Moreover, the proximity of the greenhouse to my home fostered a deeper connection to nature. I found myself spending more time tending to my plants, observing their growth, and reveling in the beauty of the natural world. It became a sanctuary where I could escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse myself in the tranquility of gardening.
Not only did the lean-to greenhouse fulfill my gardening aspirations, but it also added value to my home in more ways than one. Beyond its practical utility, it became a focal point of admiration for visitors and a source of inspiration for fellow gardening enthusiasts.
In retrospect, building a lean-to greenhouse wasn’t just about creating a structure; it was about cultivating a passion, nurturing life, and fostering a deeper connection to the natural world. It’s a project that continues to bring joy and fulfillment, reminding me of the transformative power of gardening.
Check out our list of free lean-to-greenhouse plans and find one that is just right for your home gardening needs.
1- Wooden Lean-to-Greenhouse
A lean-to greenhouse does not have to look like it was added on, this idea will show you how to create a matching design that looks the greenhouse is part of the house.
This wooden lean-to greenhouse by backwoodshome is covered with clear panels of polycarbonate to let the sun shine through and allow the matching wood structure to be visible.
Not only will a greenhouse provide a location for growing food 365 days a year, but it will also help combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) that impacts many people during the winter. Spending a little time every day inside a warm, sunny greenhouse can lift your mood, relieve stress, and banish depression.
DIY Lean-to-Greenhouse Made From Wood, Image source: backwoodshome
2- Half Wood, Half Polycarbonate
Building a DIY lean to greenhouse is a low-cost way to create a space to garden year-round. By using an existing wall, the building time and expense are reduced, plus your home value is increased.
Get these free lean togreenhouse plans by empressofdirt that will show you how to build an attractive structure that is half wood and half polycarbonate. The bottom is wood and makes ideal interior storage space, and the top half is clear polycarbonate to let the natural sunlight come in.
This is a great idea for using leftover pieces of lumber from a building project. These plans are adaptable to your particular gardening needs and building space.
Get detailed lean-to greenhouse plans in this YouTube video that will show you how to build a basic enclosed garden space. Every detail, from the framing, to the flooring, and even an adjacent outdoor garden space, is shown in this informative video.
The building costs are kept low with this basic idea we are discussing about and this lean to greenhouse can be built for under $600. Clear plastic is used to cover the wooden frame to let the sunshine through and keep the warmth inside.
Great low-cost way to create an indoor garden space so you can enjoy fresh tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, lettuce, and your other favorite vegetables all winter.
4- Wooden Lean To Greenhouse
Get these step-by-step instructions that will show you how to build a wooden lean to greenhouse by myoutdoorplans for growing and storing plants all winter. Grow vegetables and overwinter dormant plants in your own attached greenhouse.
The best thing we like in this plan is that the size of the wooden greenhouse is customizable so you can build it as large or small as you need. The free plans are on a downloadable PDF file for easy use while constructing the lean-to greenhouse.
Here is a great way to enjoy gardening year-round without spending a lot of money. The wooden frame of this DIY lean to greenhouse in this youtube video is covered with clear polycarbonate to allow maximum sunlight to come in. About 2-feet up around the bottom is covered with wood to help provide stability and to provide some interior storage space that is hidden from the outside view.
Grow food year-round and have a warm place to de-stress during the winter months when you build a lean-to greenhouse like the one we have in this YouTube video.
6- Recycled Window Lean to Greenhouse
If you want to build a greenhouse cheaply, then check out these lean-to greenhouse plans that is built with recycled windows. Some old windows and scrap lumber can be transformed into an efficient diy lean to greenhouse by fabulesslyfrugal for under $100.
Build it around the window sizes and shapes to create a one-of-a-kind lean-to greenhouse that will enable you to grow food 365 days a year. Gardening in a lean-to greenhouse is also easier on your back because you don’t have to bend over to garden. Most of the plants are in raised beds, on tables, or in hanging pots.
Recycled Window Lean to Greenhouse, Image source: fabulesslyfrugal
7- Top Vent Lean to Greenhouse
Enjoy your gardening hobby year-round with this attractive and easy to construct lean to greenhouse by howtospecialist with top vents. The vents on top can be opened or closed as needed so the interior temperature of the greenhouse remains perfect for the plants. The vents will also increase air flow to prevent mildew.
Start plant seeds in the spring to get a head start on outdoor vegetable growing season and grow food producing plants inside the greenhouse during the winter for a year-round harvest. This simple structure will add value to your property, allow you to enjoy your gardening hobby, and provide space for growing food and flowers 365 days a year. You may also like to see diy pvc greenhouse you can build on a small budget.
A DIY lean to greenhouse can be built against any outdoor structure, including a shed. These lean to greenhouse plans on YouTube videowill show you how to build one against the back of a storage shed. The greenhouse is out of the way, yet close enough to the house for easy access.
The lean-to greenhouse is as wide as the shed and has plenty of interior space for shelves and it’s tall enough for hanging pots of flowers and herb plants.
9- Small Lean To Greenhouse
This smalllean-to greenhouse by gardenplansfree is ideal for storing dormant plants during the winter or starting vegetable seeds in late winter. It’s better than a cold frame because you can stand up straight in this lean to and can work with your plants without bending over.
Save your back, save your plants, save some money by following these free plans and building yourself a small lean-to greenhouse.
Little Lean To Greenhouse Plans, Image source: gardenplansfree
10- Pre-Fab Lean to Greenhouse
If you don’t have the time or skills needed to create a lean to greenhouse from scratch, consider using a pre-fab kit. This YouTube video will show you how to put together a small 4-feet by 8-feet pre-fab lean to greenhouse so you can enjoy gardening all year.
It’s a simple and efficient structure that takes up very little space in the back or side yard and is easy to put together. Don’t let the small size fool you, you can grow a lot of fresh produce, herbs, and flowers in this small greenhouse.
Lightweight and strong, aluminum is ideal building material to use for creating a frame for a lean-to greenhouse. Easy to work with and inexpensive, aluminum and plastic sheeting are the main components of this lean to greenhouse on Youtube that fits nicely against a barn.
Get seeds and seedlings off to a healthy start in late winter with a greenhouse like this one. Continue the garden season through the winter by growing vegetables in the sunlit and warm environment inside this lean to structure. Great for any homestead, this DIY lean to greenhouse won’t take up much of your time to build or use up much landscape.
Watch this YouTube video for the free plans and custom build a lean-to greenhouse from aluminum and plastic sheeting. You may also like to check out indoor greenhouse plans.
Summary
Lean-to-greenhouse is a great option to grow your plants year round by building a greenhouse adjacent to your house wall. A lean to greenhouse is also a better option than a free standing greenhouse. Hope we have helped you in making a similar or your own custom design greenhouse through these wide selections.
Cold Frame Gardens For most home gardeners, the start of the growing season comes too slowly and the end of the season comes too fast. We certainly can’t stop mother nature, but there are ways to extend both the beginning, as well as the end of the the season. One of the best things you can do is use cold frames in and around your garden.
By definition, a cold frame is nothing more than an outdoor structure consisting of a bottomless frame and a glass/plastic top, which is heated through sunlight and is designed to protect plants from cold and adverse weather conditions. They are simple to construct and can add weeks to your growing season.
Guide to start cold frame garden project
Here are some proven ideas to get you started on a cold frame gardening project. First, you must decide what type of structure you are going to use. The easiest thing to do is simply to gather some bales of straw, place two on the front, two for the back and one each on the sides. You could also construct your frame out of bricks or cement blocks. Perhaps the most common however, are frames made out of wood. If you want detailed plans on how to build a cold frame, just go to the internet. There are literally hundreds of pre-designed cold frame plans available on the web and kits can be purchased at garden centers and home improvement stores.
Now comes the most important part: The TOP. The only way you are going to have a successful cold frame design, is to have a draft free top through which sunlight can pour in and create a warm and cozy mico-climate for your plants. Old windows make excellent tops, but any glass, plexiglass or strong plastic sheeting will do. I particularly like unused shower doors because they are the perfect size. You don’t want to use anything that is wider than four feet, which would make access to the middle of the cold frame a bit difficult. The length of your frame is never an issue.
Temperature control is very important to successfully growing plants inside your cold frame greenhouse. A well constructed frame can overheat very quickly and it is best to err on the cool side, especially in the spring and fall. In general, if the outside temperature is below 30 degrees leave the top on. If it is above 40 degrees, prop open a few inches in order to vent out excess heat. If you have a day with the temperature over 50, you should remove the top completely. Replace the top late in the day in order to trap some heat for protection from plunging night temperatures. It is also a good idea to cover the top at night with some sort of insulation, like a blanket or layered newspapers. Even snow is a good insulator. In the morning, simply remove the insulating layer and let the sun work its magic.
In the spring,“hardening off” your seedlings is a critical step in the longterm vitality of your plants, and cold frames are perfect for this. Plants started from seed indoors and under grow lights need several days of part time exposure before fully transitioning to their new life outside in the garden. Trays of seedlings can be placed in the cold frame for a half an hour on day one, and increased by another 30 minutes everyday after that. Just make sure the temperature in the frame doesn’t get too hot! Seedlings are tougher than you think and can easily tolerate a bit of cool, say 50 degrees, and after a couple of weeks they will grow into strong healthy plants ready for the garden.
You can put your cold frames away for the summer, but by autumn they should come back into play. September is a good time to start many quick growing plants that will mature later in the year. Broccoli, beets, chard, green onions, kale, various lettuces, radish and spinach all are excellent crops that will thrive late into the winter if protected by a cold frame.
A final word of caution. Cold frames can be very addictive! Once you discover how easy they are to build, and how productive they can be, you will find yourself adding more and more. It is a joy to see cold frames brimming with young plants in early April, while eating lettuce picked from the garden in December is a real treat!
In areas where the growing season lasts for about six months, cold frames can extend the season to nearly a year round pursuit. Start small, learn along the way, and pretty soon you too will become a cold frame gardening expert.
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