The best small greenhouse is easy to assemble, convenient enclosures, which protect your potted plants from the cold weather, UV rays, and pests.
More affordable, easier to assemble, and of course, smaller than their commercial counterparts, small greenhouses are a great solution for the backyard gardener.
While you know that buying a small greenhouse can be a great way to protect your plants, you might be concerned about the price and space required.
However, not all greenhouses are large, and not all greenhouses are expensive. In fact, today, there are small and mini greenhouses to fit every yard, patio, garden, and budget.
We’ve reviewed the best small greenhouses available on the market and narrowed the competition down to the top 8 – separating them into three categories.
UPDATE: We reviewed this article for 2020 and have included new user reviews.
8 BEST SMALL & MINI GREENHOUSES REVIEWS
While they largely accomplish the same goal, not all greenhouses are the same.
We’ve broken down the best small greenhouses for your backyard into three groups:
- Value for the Money
- High-End
- Cheap and Mini
BEST SMALL GREENHOUSES FOR THE MONEY
These greenhouse kits aren’t necessarily the cheapest options, but in our opinion, provide the most value for the money.
For a great price, you get A LOT of greenhouse.
Quictent Waterproof UV protected Reinforced Mini Cloche Greenhouse
This small portable greenhouse by Quictent is an option that can be used both indoors or outdoors.
The Quictent Mini Cloche Greenhouse has a longer design for gardens that need to maximize a narrow space.
This greenhouse is made to keep the ground warm and allows your plants a humid environment to grow in. This greenhouse also promises greater germination rates than past Quictent greenhouse products due to this house’s new innovative design, which keeps the ground warm.
The Quictent Mini Cloche is perfect for backyard gardens and is available in two sizes: 71″ x 36″ x 36″ and 95″ x 36″ x 36″.
In addition to its quality and ease of assembly, we love the Quictent’s price point – making this greenhouse one of our best values.
One thing we don’t love?
Some reviewers have complained that the greenhouse is very light and does not come with anything to anchor it to the ground.
The manufacturer should have included anchors, but they recommend burying it in soil.
Real HomeGenerosity Reader Review
“Great size! We bought this greenhouse for the raised beds in our yard. Got our seeds off to a great start this spring.”
G Portable 8 Shelves Greenhouse Portable Mini Walk-In
The G Portable 8 Shelves Greenhouse is made to be easy to transport and simple to set up and tear down.
The transparent plastic greenhouse covering allows you to see inside so that you can easily check up on your plants, though the cover material is mesh reinforced for maximum strength.
The frame is rust-resistant, so it lasts even in rainy conditions, and there is an opening entrance with material that can be rolled down to enclose your plants completely.
While the material comes in green, the color doesn’t affect your ability to see through.
This small greenhouse is a great value and makes for an inexpensive, easy option to start using a greenhouse in your backyard.
It measures in at 56″ x 29″ x 77″.
Reviewers agree that this option will give you all the plant protection you’re looking for in one cost-effective, compact package.
BEST HIGH-END SMALL GREENHOUSES
While still low in price compared to full-size greenhouses, these options top the price and quality charts for small greenhouses.
Palram Snap & Grow 6′ Series Hobby Greenhouse
Starting with one of the largest options (still to be considered a “small” greenhouse), and the higher end of the price range, is the Palram Snap & Grow 6′ Series Hobby Greenhouse.
This smaller than average greenhouse comes with a premium price, but you can rest assured that you are getting a premium product from Palram.
The Snap & Grow Series measures 6’ x 8’ x 7’ with a total of 53 square feet of growing space. It has a polycarbonate roof that provides 100% protection from UV rays and 90% protection from light transmission.
It also has a reinforced frame with a double wall that is made from rust-resistant aluminum so that it will last longer.
There is plenty of headroom in this house, so you don’t have to worry about feeling cramped in a small space or having to duck if you are on the taller side. This model also comes with an adjustable roof vent, rain gutter, and a lockable door handle. It also includes a base made from galvanized steel built to last.
Although it does come with a higher price point, reviewers believe that they’ve got their money’s worth. This well-built small greenhouse will last you a long time so that you can reuse it each year. Plus, it comes with a 5-year warranty so that in the event that something damages it, you’re covered.
Palram Nature Series Mythos Hobby Greenhouse
The Mythos Hobby Greenhouse by Palram is a slightly smaller option than the Snap & Grow.
The Palram Nature Series Mythos Hobby Greenhouse is built with 4 mm twin-wall polycarbonate greenhouse panels that block up to 99.99% of harmful UV rays and help to diffuse light, reducing the risk of plant burn.
This greenhouse comes in multiple sizes – ranging from 6′ x 4′ to 8′ x 12′ – so you can choose the smaller option to save more space, or you can pick the slightly larger one for more growing space.
Built with a rust-resistant aluminum frame, this greenhouse option is made to last so you can continue to use it season after season.
It is fitted with a galvanized steel base for support, adjustable roof vent, rain gutter, and a lockable door so that you can make sure that animals don’t get in at night. It also has a magnetic door catch system to make it easy to get in and out when you need to, even when your hands are full of new plants.
Real HomeGenerosity Reader Review
“Wish I did more research on greenhouses before I bought. Originally bought a cheap one, but it only lasted until the first storm hit. Decided to spend a little more and bought the Palram. I have to say that it wasn’t the easiest thing to assemble but worth it. I’m pretty tall (6′ 2″), and I fit no problem. We’ve had three pretty strong storms this season, and it is still ticking. Super sturdy!”
King Canopy GH1010 10-Feet by 10-Feet Fully Enclosed Greenhouse
This enclosed greenhouse is big on growing space – measuring in at 10 feet by 10 feet, with 8 feet of headroom.
The King Canopy GH1010 is made with a 1-3/8-inch white powder-coated steel frame and has a rip-stop greenhouse fitted clear cover to fully enclose your plants.
The greenhouse cover is designed with UV inhibitors and is fire-retardant and water-resistant, as well. This equips the King Canopy for almost any type of weather.
The King Canopy resides at the more affordable end of the luxury greenhouse category and is a solid overall performer. However, we don’t like that the cover is not as see-through as the pictures show. Additionally, it’s worth noting that several other reviewers have complained of faulty zippers on the zippered doo, (others have raved about the high quality of the zippers).
HomeGenerosity Reader Review
“No complaints here about this greenhouse’s quality. However, the company should include an anchor kit. Also, just know that the material covering the greenhouse is not see-through, and is hard to see my flowers.”
BEST CHEAP & MINI GREENHOUSES
Not everyone has the space or budget for a full-size greenhouse.
That doesn’t mean, though, that we shouldn’t be able to reap the benefits of a greenhouse.
There are still plenty of affordable and mini greenhouse options available.
We’ve reviewed the best mini greenhouse for apartment and city dwellers, as well as our favorite affordable small greenhouse.
Gardman R687 4-Tier Mini Greenhouse
The Gardman Mini Greenhouse is a great greenhouse for small spaces and gets our vote as the best mini greenhouse.
This affordable compact 4 tier mini greenhouse is great for those who don’t want to take up too much space or have only a few plants to cover. This is an ideal mini greenhouse for those with small backyards or gardens or buyers who need to fit a greenhouse on a deck or patio.
This unit has a push fit tubular steel frame but doesn’t require professional installation and assembly. Plus, with the ability to put it together yourself, it is easy to tear down and move whenever you need to.
The greenhouse has a clear polyethylene cover and has a roll-up door as an entrance so that you can open it to tend to your flowers as needed. It has four shelves and can accommodate four planters, or multiple flowerpots on each shelf, allowing you to be able to keep a larger number of plants.
The Gardman provides one of the greatest value options on our list.
However, if you like the size, but would like more than one of these greenhouses, you can choose to buy packs of 2 or 4 and save money by buying in bulk.
These are great space savers, and they will give your plants the protection they need to grow and thrive.
Real HomeGenerosity Reader Review
“I bought this little greenhouse about three weeks ago. I live in an apartment with an average-sized balcony, and it fits perfectly. The only thing I’d say is that it really helps to zip tie the frame to something. Mine started to lean after a few hours, but since attaching it to the railing, there are no problems.”
Homewell Mini Walk-In Greenhouse 3 Tiers 6 Shelves
This mini greenhouse is a great affordable walk-in option for those who want to spend significant time nurturing their growing plants.
The house comes with six shelves in 3 tiers that can hold up to 75 pounds.
The Homewell frame is made from powder-coated steel, and the material covering is reinforced clear polyethylene plastic that helps to retain heat. Plus, this greenhouse requires no assembly, and it is easy to set up and tear down, making it great for seasonal use.
You get a lot of plant protection with this greenhouse for a wallet-friendly price. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that will last, this greenhouse may be the perfect fit.
Flower House FHSP300 SpringHouse Greenhouse
This compact and lightweight mini greenhouse is a great option for those who don’t need a ton of space for their plants and want a portable greenhouse.
With minimal assembly, you can have this greenhouse up and running in no time.
The Flower House has an open floor so that it can easily be placed over roots, small trees, or bushes.
The mini greenhouse’s material is lightweight and fosters maintained humidity so that your plants can stay moisturized. The Flower House also has a door that can be simply pulled to the side when in use.
The Flower House, while not as large as some of the luxury options, makes our list due to its build quality. This mini greenhouse is great for those who don’t require as much space and want something easy to set up and tear down. For its portability, sturdy build, and price, the Flower House is one of our favorite small greenhouses.
FINDING YOUR PERFECT GREENHOUSE
Every gardener has different needs for their greenhouse.
What’s best for you? A greenhouse kit that is larger and sturdier or a mini greenhouse that is smaller in size and able to fit onto your deck or patio space?
Either way, it is important to find a product that will help your garden grow nicely and help you tend to your plants’ needs.
We hope that our list of the best small greenhouses gave you a place to start. Taking a look at some of the best options on the market can help you figure out what you need in a greenhouse, and what you can find for the budget you have in mind.
You don’t have to buy a full-size hobby greenhouse if you only have a few plants, and you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to get a product that gets the job done.
Take a look at the best small greenhouses on this list, and you can find a great option for your plant needs while getting a great deal.
Greenhouse Buyer’s Guide
Before purchasing a greenhouse for your garden, there are several things you should consider. Below you will find these considerations alongside information to help make your purchasing decision easier.
The Right Size
We have reviewed several of the best small greenhouses for gardens, which are particularly good for smaller outdoor areas. However, greenhouses do come in a variety of different size options. You need to find a size that will best accommodate the space you have available and the size that will fit your purpose. For a small backyard area, then a 6-foot by 8-foot greenhouse may be suitable and will give you enough space to grow a variety of things.
The Right Ventilation
Ventilation is another important aspect to consider when purchasing a greenhouse. If you have improper ventilation, then the plants may not grow as they should. It might also require more frequent irrigation and a spike in any electricity bills because of the excessive use of additional fans.
On the other hand, too much ventilation can also be disastrous and damaging to your plants as well. The right ventilation is what will be sufficient for what you are growing, along with being budget-friendly. So, consider the size of the fans and the position of the fans to help optimize the greenhouse environment while keeping evaporative ventilation in mind.
The Right Insulation
Before insulation, you also want to think about how to block drafts. This means keep an eye on the panes and replace anything that is damaged or broken. Seal all the frame gaps and ensure the door fits properly. Greenhouses have different insulation methods based on what is being grown and the weather. Double glazing, for example, is one of the most efficient insulation methods.
The Right Heating and Cooling
Being able to adjust to the weather accordingly is also important. With too much or too little heating in place, plant growth can be negatively affected. The ideal temperature for your greenhouse should be approximately 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit. So, when choosing a greenhouse, ensure that the material and the overall construction of the greenhouse supports this temperature adjustment without having to make an even bigger investment for alterations.
The Right Lighting
Many people misunderstand what is required when it comes to the right greenhouse lighting. The lighting the greenhouse needs will depend on the type of plants being grown, the current season, time of year, and the amount of sunlight that is actually available. Many greenhouses will require a good 6 to 7 hours of direct sunlight each day. If this isn’t possible, then you will need to consider additional lighting features to help.
The Right Irrigation
Your watering system needs to be operative in the greenhouse as well. Depending on the size of the greenhouse, different irrigation methods are available, but again, it depends on the size, the type of plants you are growing, and the weather conditions in the area. Some feature overhead misters, while others may feature drip tubing, mat irrigation, or perimeter irrigation.
The Right Durability
Durability is also an important consideration when buying the best small greenhouses for gardens because you want it to last. Consider the quality of the materials being used in its construction, its corrosion resistance, and how it can withstand different weather conditions. Is there a warranty on the greenhouse?
The Right Price
Finally, you want to find something at the right price that is budget-friendly. Greenhouses differ in price depending on the features you are looking for, as well as the size of the greenhouse you are interested in. A seasonal garden greenhouse may be on the lower end of the pricing spectrum, but a higher investment may yield a more sustainable greenhouse throughout the year.
BACKYARD GREENHOUSE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Greenhouses aren’t just for expert gardeners. Even those that haven’t yet realized a green thumb can improve the health of their plants with a greenhouse; they might just have a few questions along the way.
How do I keep a greenhouse warm in the winter?
While the answer largely depends on how cold of a winter you are talking about, there are several steps you can take to keep your greenhouse warm in the colder months:
Block Drafts. All your work will be for naught if you don’t block incoming drafts.
Patch holes, replace broken panels and prevent any cold air from entering your small greenhouse. Add Insulation. Bubble wrap it. Bubble wrap the inside walls of your greenhouse to seal off air gaps. It is the cheapest and most effective method to insulate your greenhouse.
Don’t rush out to the pack and ship store, though. Buy UV stabilized horticultural bubble wrap designed to last longer.
Also, keep in mind that the bubble wrap will filter the sunlight some, reducing what gets to your plants.
Buy a Heater. No matter how well you insulate your small greenhouse, you’re going to have to add some heat as well.
Give the Dr. Heater greenhouse heater a look.
It is an affordable option that doesn’t require any technical expertise and is rated to warm up 150 sq easily. ft. of greenhouse space.
Circulate The Air. Now that you’ve added some heat, you need to spread the heat around the greenhouse. To avoid hot and cold spots, add a circulator. For smaller greenhouses, a simple fan should do the trick.
Vent. Don’t forget to let some fresh air in. Even during the winter, your plants need some fresh CO2. Just make sure to have the door and vents closed at night to keep them warm.
Is green or clear better for a greenhouse?
Greenhouses are offered in two colors: green and clear.
Green plastic, or PE greenhouse covers, tends to be more durable. However, its coloring allows less light to penetrate the greenhouse, making it better for plants that don’t require as much sun exposure.
Clear coverings, or PVC, are thought sometimes to contain a toxic load that can harm more sensitive plants.
The benefit of PVC, however, is that your plants will receive more sun, and you will be better able to see your plants.
There is no one correct choice, but rather your selection depends on what plants you have within your greenhouse.
Most of the small greenhouses on our “best of” list are sold with clear covers, as customers prefer to see their plants.
How much do small greenhouses cost?
When it comes to small greenhouses, size and cost greatly vary.
While a kit like the Palram Snap & Grow is sold in sizes up to 8′ x 20′ x 9′, the smallest of greenhouses can fit on your patio.
Similarly, the costs of small greenhouses range from the price of a dinner out to a mortgage payment.
Which vegetables grow best in a greenhouse?
The best vegetables to grow in a greenhouse are the ones that will thrive indoors like tomatoes, peppers, strawberries, lettuce, cucumbers, beans, and peas.
Do mini greenhouses protect from frost?
A greenhouse traps the heat from the sun during the daytime, which allows the plants to stay warm during the night. If it is a cold night, however, the frost can damage the greenhouse plants unless you have added protection in place to combat the frost.
Greenhouse types – which one suits your requirement?
There are three main types of greenhouses you can purchase. These are traditional, lean-to, and octagonal. However, there are also some newer dome-shaped greenhouses available as well. A lean-to (or an attached greenhouse) allows you to take advantage of an existing wall, which is ideal if you have a south-facing home. Otherwise, you can pick a freestanding type that does not need to “lean on” or attach to another building but will fit nicely in the space you have so you can get right to gardening.
Is it cheaper to buy or build a DIY greenhouse?
Many will find that it is much easier and sometimes even cheaper to purchase a larger greenhouse rather than build or expand on a small DIY greenhouse. Either way, you look at it, a greenhouse – even a small one – is worth the investment you make because it provides you with the ideal environment to grow plants and vegetables year-round during each growing season.
Even if you only have two things growing in your greenhouse garden, you will find it is worth it. If you still want to build your own, you can find many greenhouse ideas and greenhouse plans online to help.
What is the advantage of greenhouse gardening?
Greenhouse gardening awards you with a longer growing season and more consistent temperatures. The sun’s heat is trapped inside of the greenhouse, and that heat is retained within the structure. This means that even in colder climates, your gardening growing season can be extended when the right things are in place.
Image Credit: Amazon.com
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