The primary element of a greenhouse is a plastic or glass material that draws in sunlight and traps it inside the shelter. However, that shelter can take a variety of shapes, from the very pot the plant is in to a display case or shelving unit of plant options.
While an expansive greenhouse might be your goal for gardening heaven, even a small greenhouse for a couple of plants can elevate your plant health and gardening successes. The best part is, simple DIY greenhouses require few supplies and only require a bit of your time. You can even recycle materials you already have around the house. So what are you waiting for?
Related: Amazing greenhouse set near garden influenced by Silk Road
Clear plastic cups
If you’ve got them, you might as well use them. While we don’t promote buying plastic cups, if you have friends, coworkers or roommates with a Starbucks addiction, you’ll see these types of cups everywhere. To insulate small plants, simply place the cup over the plant, pressing it firmly into the soil to create a protective seal from the cold.
Clear plastic totes
The same concept holds true for clear plastic totes. While plastic isn’t our favorite thing, upside down totes are large enough to cover several plants and do a great job of both keeping them warm and creating a moist environment through condensation.
Plastic bags
Yes, it’s plastic again. But if you receive an item packaged in a large, clear plastic bag, you might as well put it to use. Drape the bag over a potted plant, securing the open end of the bag tightly around the pot. If this creates too much pressure on your plants, place a tomato cage over the plant to provide protection for the plant and support for the bag.
A simple frame
For a larger greenhouse you can set inside your raised bed, make a frame out of scrap lumber. There are countless design possibilities. For example, you can use one-by-one boards to create a rectangular frame. Decide on a length, width and height. Cut two long sides for both the top and bottom. Then cut the two matching short sides for both the top and the bottom. Next, cut the four vertical corner sections that will connect the top frame with the bottom frame. Nail, staple or screw the frame together. Place the frame in your desired location. Then cover it with plastic sheeting, a clear tablecloth or used shower liner. Tack the plastic in place if needed.
Quick pallet greenhouse
Pallets are a great source of free wood. They are easy to find at businesses in most towns. While you can cut apart pallets to use the planks, you can also keep them intact for some jobs like an easy DIY greenhouse. Simply lean the tops of the pallets together in the shape of a triangular roofline. You can attach them together if you’re worried about them collapsing. Then drape thin, clear plastic over the frame.
Glass box
Glass is a classic and environmentally-friendly choice for greenhouses. While you can create frames for loose glass pieces, the easiest way to build a glass enclosed space is to use framed glass you already have. Think of a picture frame or framed art. Base your design on the size of these framed pieces of glass. For example, use four wood picture frames for the sides of the box, attaching them together on the corners. Then attach a hinge to a larger wood frame on the top. This will allow the top glass lid to raise and lower so you can water and care for plants inside the mini greenhouse. Keep your smaller plants inside until they’re ready to transplant.
Greenhouse closet
With a bit of protection, a metal or plastic shelving unit can easily be converted into a greenhouse. Use a portable closet to achieve the task. Either retrofit the closet material over another unit or convert your temporary storage closet into a shelving unit. Add shelves by attaching them to the vertical supports or hang shelves from the top hanging bar. Just make sure the outer covering is clear enough to allow natural light through.
Use plexiglass
Clear polycarbonate sheets or acrylic plexiglass can both be used to create a greenhouse too. You can use the materials inside a frame, replicating the glass designs mentioned above. Similarly, you can prop plexiglass sheets above plants. Put them at an angle over the plant, supporting it on one side or find natural materials like rocks or bales to surround your plants. Then simply lay the plexiglass over the top of the “walls” to shelter plants and offer warmth to the area below.
Recycled produce bins
It’s great to eat a lot of produce, and even better when you source it from a local farmer’s market or produce stand. Sometimes though, we find ourselves grabbing a large plastic container of mixed greens or spinach. Rather than live with the guilt of throwing it out after a single use, recycle the plastic bin as a greenhouse dome on your small plants. It can cover several at the same and will offer warmth and moisture too.
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