Building A DIY Greenhouse At Home

Building a DIY greenhouse from scratch doesn’t have to be as daunting as it sounds, and can be a means to introduce a whole new range of plants to your garden.

What makes a greenhouse special? Primarily, it is the amount of light, the controlled temperature, and the easily manipulated amount of moisture plants receive. Some greenhouses are dedicated to ‘crops’ that are not eaten and are used only decoratively or for special occasions, such as flowers. Others feature plants that give rise to edible products, such as tomatoes. 

Greenhouses often have glass ceilings, which serve to both admit a high amount of light and trap heat inside the structure. When the sun goes down, the heat doesn’t dissipate as quickly as it does outdoors, allowing for plants that don’t tolerate cool nights well to flourish.

Ultimately, plants need light, warm temperatures, air, water, and nutrients to survive and grow. Different plants have different requirements for each of these necessities. A greenhouse works by providing the first two requirements for your plants, but the last three are up to you. Another component that is up to you is what your greenhouse of choice actually looks like, which is why the concept of building a DIY greenhouse is almost limitless if you are able to meet the core functions of how the space should work. 

Five DIY Greenhouse Ideas To Try 

Since we’re spending more time at home than ever before thanks to the ongoing effects of the pandemic, it makes sense that we’ve seen a rise in DIY projects to keep us occupied too. If you’ve ever wondered how to build a greenhouse, the good news is that it might just be easier – and cheaper – than you might think. 

Old Windows – Whether you want to build a mini greenhouse or a full scale walk in design, digging around for old glass windows is a great DIY greenhouse option. Depending on the size and quality, it’s a great way to upcycle without breaking the bank. 

Timber And Polythene – Polythene is a type of plastic made into thin sheets or bags and used especially to keep food fresh or to keep things dry. Pair it with wood, timber decking or even sleepers to build a greenhouse to any size or design preference. 

Mini Greenhouse – Do you lack the time, energy or skills to build a full scale greenhouse? You can easily mimic the effect by cutting up old soft drink bottles, and placing them over individual plants in your garden as a quick and easy solution. 

DIY Cold Frame – Cold frames are just like greenhouses, only smaller and more portable. While they are often made from timber and glass, you could also fit a custom made lid on top of an existing planter box, or even apply an older window frame here too. 

Umbrella Barrels – For another easy DIY greenhouse, try applying a clear umbrella to a barrel style planter box or pot as an easy way to protect seedlings or younger plants from harsh weather. Simply remove the handle, then insert into the container.

Once you’ve installed your new DIY greenhouse, keep an eye on a few key variables to make sure that your plants are happy in their new home environment. 

• Orientation: Keep an eye on where the sun directly and indirectly hits your new structure.
• Temperature: Make a record of internal and external temperatures around your project.
• Utilities: Ensure the free flow of water, air, and electricity to your new greenhouse.
• Accessibility: Make sure you leave room for paths and beds within your greenhouse.
• Expansion: Is there any possibility for future expansion around your site?
• Health: Continually monitor the soil quality and plant health in your new microclimate.

Further Gardening Advice From The Professionals

Spending time outside and in the garden is not only good for our overall well being, but it’s also an easy way to start educating yourself on the importance of sustainability. 

If you’re noticing foreign invaders popping up in your garden or yard, a natural weed killer like Bioweed is a safe way to keep them under control. As a non-residual solution, it will break down into the soil in as little as 72 hours and can combat over 200 invasive weed species, making it safe for you, your family and your pets to navigate. 

Bioweed is the brainchild of well established agricultural leaders Greenpro, and is backed by over twenty years of research and development. Owned and manufactured in Australia, the primary ingredient of Bioweed is actually sustainably sourced pine oil, and is even approved by NASAA, ACO and APVMA for use around organic farms and food production.

If you’re on the hunt for a natural weed killer, more organic gardening solutions, or simply want to know more about eliminating weeds safely, check out other tips and tricks in our online advice forum, or contact us for any further queries.