Mini greenhouses are a great way to keep your plants warm and safe throughout the year. People who don’t require a large structure for a garden can easily take care of their plants in a mini greenhouse. These miniature greenhouses occupy less space. Moreover, they have a variety of choices as they come in different shapes and sizes.
A small portable greenhouse provides plant lovers and gardeners with several benefits. Especially in the countries where varieties of plants and vegetables grow in most of the weather conditions, the mini greenhouse technique is very popular there. A greenhouse technique allows us to keep our plants safe and healthy from adverse external weather conditions. It also keeps the plants safe from pests and pets.
Nowadays, plant and garden lovers are paying more and more attention to this technique due to its immense benefit and productivity. This technique has been so popular today that people even consider a DIY mini greenhouse for their gardens.
Best Mini Greenhouse Buying Guide
There are a few factors you need to consider before choosing the best mini greenhouse for your garden. There is a large number of products available on the market and they come in varieties. We’ve gathered the most important factors here so that you could choose your one easily.
Size
The size of the mini greenhouse you’re buying depends on your purpose and use. What you are exactly planning should be noted before you search for an appropriate product. The space is quite important to consider too. If you have little space, you have to go for the one smaller in size. People who would purchase a mini greenhouse for their terrace or balcony would choose accordingly. The plant sizes are needed to be determined too. Measure your requirements carefully and note down the maximum and minimum size you desire to buy.
Finish and furnish
The finish and furnish of a mini greenhouse could be glass, polycarbonate, or plastic. Glass is always the best if it is strong. They are long-lasting and much better for sunlight and heat. Polycarbonate is lighter than glass. Its advantage is that it doesn’t break or shatter, but both polycarbonate and plastic are less natural for gardening. The plastic covers are less long-lasting as glazed greenhouses; however, in most cases, replacement covers are available. The quality of plastic affects the quantity of light penetration through the cover. Choose the best quality plastic within your budget.
Structure
The frame of a greenhouse comes either with metal or timber. High quality aluminum made metal frames are less expensive and require almost no maintenance. These frames are good at withstanding adverse weather. Timber frames beautify the outlook and are fancy-looking. However, they require a good deal of maintenance. Timber cannot withstand all weather conditions. Garden lovers still choose timber frames as they are more natural. If you have enough time to take care and the aesthetic matter is more important go for timber, else aluminum frame is fine.
Purpose
Exactly why are you choosing a greenhouse and which one would serve your purpose is a vital factor. You have several options today for your place’s weather condition and surrounding. For instance, a mini wooden greenhouse may not serve the purpose of a mini greenhouse for winter. There are again, small patio greenhouses which fulfills our aesthetic representations. Many homemakers would be glad to have a mini indoor greenhouse with light for their bedroom balcony. Our research shows that small portable greenhouses are very popular today because most people don’t like to fix these things at a place, or they just want to keep the opportunity of portability open.
Price
The money you’ll spend is valuable. Of course, you’d want a product that is worth buying. In the case of buying a mini greenhouse, decide which one to buy according to your affordability. Mini greenhouses would be better within just $100. They would be a bit pricy for the material. Always spend some extra dollars for good quality, or there are chances you have to buy a new one again. If a small greenhouse is sufficient for you, spending even less than 50 dollars is fine; don’t misunderstand the price, because very light-weight and small miniature greenhouses are not expensively made – they serves many gardeners purposes as well!
Best Mini Greenhouse| Our Top Mini Greenhouse Selections
1.Gardman R687 4-Tier Mini Greenhouse
Product introduction
The Gardman is from UK’s leading garden products provider. The Gardman 4 Tier mini greenhouse is a very easy-to-assemble, lightweight, and convenient greenhouse. It is portable and can be used both indoors and outdoors. As the name says, it is 4-tiered and suitable for seedlings, plants, and flowers to grow. For gardeners who have space issues, this is one nice and strong portable mini greenhouse.
What Reviewers Say
Reviewers are happy with the easy assembly of this mini greenhouse.
Customers say that this is a perfect product if some tweaking is done. For instance, they recommend buying zip ties to secure the racks to the rods, because chances are the racks were distorted in delivery -- making the shelves uneven and unstable. But once you zip-tie them down, they're great.
They also recommend that it may be placed on something that would stabilize it on the floor. Although not very wobbly, this makes it safer.
Customers are happy with its sturdiness and they say it is very light, making it easy to shift from one place to another. However, first put it where you want and next put the plants in.
Features & Considerations
The Gardman 4-Tier Mini Greenhouse is just over five feet in height -- 63 inches tall. It’s made of high quality solid powder-coated strong push fit tubular steel frame and assembling doesn’t require any tools.
It has 4-tiers for plants, flowers, and seedlings. The four deep shelves are each 18" with simple push-fit assembly. You have guy ropes, and metal stakes which makes the thing stable against wind. You could use zip tie from the frame to the shelves and there are also tabs on the back so that you may fasten it to a patio or wall railing.
This greenhouse has a clear polyethylene cover. It has a roll-up zippered door for easy access.
The weight of this 4 tier mini greenhouse is just 9.6 pounds, therefore, easily portable.
The four metal shelves are in a lattice design that allows proper drainage and it is quite ideal for plant pots or seed trays. This design also allows sunlight to filter through to the bottom.
There is 12.5 inches of space between each shelf -- this is plenty of room for several types of plants. For taller plants, you may remove shelves to get extra height.
2.Ohuhu Greenhouse for Outdoors with Observation Windows New Version, Small Walk-in 3 Tiers
Product introduction
If you’d like to create the right space for your plants, providing them with the best environment for your plants to grow healthily, protection against rough weather conditions like rain, wind, and snow, Ohuhu Greenhouse for Outdoors is one great product!
Its quality structure and built make it an ‘all-season withstanding’ and durable item. Moreover, for people who value aesthetic matters, this is highly appealing.
What Reviewers Say
They also say that it's quite tall enough to walk into without stooping over. There is plenty of space on the shelves, which could hold several starter containers.
People are happy with the material and built. They also praise the strong zippers. Some reviewers have expressed their admiration by calling it a lovely cozy greenhouse.
Some reviews also say that for small spaces this is a perfect choice; as it contains few items.
This mini greenhouse has also been praised as the perfect size for a beginner gardener. People have mentioned it as a good item to expand their gardening experience. Beginners have good experiences with vegetable seedling and tree saplings in this greenhouse
Features & Considerations
Ohuhu Greenhouse for Outdoors is built with durable rust-resistant tubes, weighing 16.42 pounds – allowing it to be portable.
Measuring 56.3” (L) x 28.7”(W) x 76.8”(H) this beautiful greenhouse has 6 wired shelves. The shelves allow you to place small plants, gardening tools, and pots. The greenhouse has sufficient room for all your gardening supplies or plants.
For air circulation it has zippered roll-up door and 2 Velcro side windows. Therefore, it is provided with excellent air circulation facilities. The conditions fulfill an ideal environment for starting seedlings, protecting young plants, and extending the plant growing season.
The Ohuhu Greenhouse cover is durable upgraded; it is UV resistant and waterproof.
Finally, it has an 18 lbs. weight capacity; therefore, it is strong enough to hold seed trays, pots, and plant growth light allowing the gardeners to relax and grow their plants.
3.Zenport SH3212A Garden Cold Frame Greenhouse Cloche for Easy Access Protected Gardening
Product introduction
For easy access and well-protected gardening, the Zenport garden cold frame greenhouse is a good choice. It is well-suited for small sheltered places such as patios and balconies.
The greenhouse frame is strongly constructed which has a waterproof transparent cover with a roll-up zippered panel. This provides easy access to plantings, adjustable ventilation, and humidity control.
Ideal for optimal growing conditions, warmth, and insulation, air circulation, moisture, and sunlight to filter through inside, this is a good choice for the gardeners.
What Reviewers Say
Reviewers are happy with its size to start seedlings. Their opinion about the plastic is although ‘thin’, but the zippers seem well made.
A big feature that induces people to choose a mini greenhouse is not only its easy-assembly but also its easy disassembly. People are a bit unhappy with its disassemble issue – it cannot be fully disassembled, therefore, it takes more space to store.
Experienced users of this greenhouse recommend taking the cover off when the weather warms for fungus not to grow on the plants as the moisture condenses inside during the day. They suggest to unzip the flaps and open it up that way to air out during the day if it is too chilly to take it off.
Users of this item are happy growing tomatoes, eggplant, okra, cilantro, and basil in it.
Features & Considerations
This greenhouse has a sturdy green steel frame with a waterproof transparent plastic cover. It has a zipped roll-up panel for easy access, humidity control, and ventilation. One can easily assemble it. It is very good for startup seeds and also growing seasonal vegetables. With an assembled dimensions of 47-Inch long by 23-5/8-Inch wide by 23-5/8-Inch high, it offers protected gardening in the yard and on deck, patio, or balcony.
Its weight is just 4.6 pounds allowing easy mobility.
4. Educational Insights GreenThumb Greenhouse With Vinyl Cover, Perfect For Classroom, Home, and Herb Gardens- Indoor/Outdoor Gardening
Product introduction
For new gardeners the Educational Insights GreenThumb Greenhouse a nice little item. It is a two-tiered greenhouse and assembles very easily. People who have pets can use this greenhouse indoors. It has sturdy wire shelves to keep potted plants off the ground.
If you are considering buying something for your little daughter to educate and also provide her with quality leisure-time, Educational Insights GreenThumb Greenhouse could be a great choice!
What Reviewers Say
Some people think that it is considerably overpriced and not well-constructed.
People who run out of space have admired this greenhouse. They’re in favor of it setting it either indoor or outdoors.
Reviewers say that assembly is clear and easy. They are happy with little space-occupying but a greenhouse that contains several pots, including 2 deep.
Some gardeners have liked it for their kids to make them learn gardening. They believe that this set is perfect for teaching her children how to start seedlings and maintain them. They suggest that children can be guided to grow strawberries, cherry tomatoes, and wildflowers.
Reviewers have appreciated the size of this greenhouse and mentioned it extremely generous with good clearance on the top shelf for taller plants.
People are happy with it as it is sturdy but lightweight, making it extremely portable.
Features & Considerations
Relatively small in size, which measures 38"H x 36"W x 19"D, the GreenThumb Greenhouse occupies less space and convenient to put several pots of plants. It is just a two-tiered cute little greenhouse with sturdy wire shelves and a zippered vinyl cover. The clear vinyl cover fits comfortably over the metal frame. You could easily access to plants inside through the zippered opening ties.
It is well resistant to pests and pets. It weighs only 14.4 ounces thus a great portable item, which could be used both indoors and outdoors.
Product introduction
The Mini Pop up Greenhouse Small Indoor Outdoor is easy and quick to install portable gardening flowerpot cover. One may set up this small vegetable garden plant greenhouses cover in seconds. It could be used either indoor or outdoor growing.
What Reviewers Say
Reviewers say that the mini pop-up greenhouse is good for sheltering outdoor plants from rain, wind, and stray cats.
Reviewers are happy with it using it both indoors and outdoors. They say that, since the cover is clear, it can be zipped up most of the door to help trap heat inside on cold nights.
People liked the high ceiling which makes it good for taller plants.
Users have been pretty successful at growing herbs because it provides a lot of natural light.
Reviewers talked about the metal stakes to secure it to the ground. This protects it from pretty strong winds from getting budged.
Most reviewers also liked the plastic and said they are thick and sturdy. They are also very happy with the zippable flap, mentioning it large and giving easy access to the plants.
Many reviewers have told their experiences with seed starting and successful germination. Especially, for growing succulents in the garden.
Finally, most reviewers say that this product is well worth the price.
Features & Considerations
This is a quick setup mini greenhouse for extending your growing season and protecting your plants. It is 27"x27"x31" in size and only 2.5 lbs. The material is clear PVC.
For creating a superior growing environment, this mini greenhouse promotes and maintains high humidity levels. It can withstand strong wind and protect the plants in adverse weather conditions. Its cover comes with four steel ground tack. This makes it strong and stable. It has a zipper window.
6.Seven colors house Reinforced Portable Mini Greenhouse
Product introduction
Seven colors house is a sturdy lightweight mini greenhouse which is a good choice for balconies. It’s made of Alloy Steel, Polyvinyl Chloride. With a thick plastic cover, this is very good for outdoor gardeners too to protect from adverse weather and squirrels.
What Reviewers Say
Reviewers say that it is very easy to setup.
Users have liked the plastic saying they are thick enough. Several users have issues with the zipper.
Reviewers have found it useful to plant flowers, vegetables, and herbs in it.
People have a good experience using it on their balconies. They like to have it as a mini indoor greenhouse. One issue they found is that it is not a good choice in extremely cold weather.
Reviewers have commented positively on its price. They say that it is a great greenhouse for the price.
Regarding the plastic, reviewers say that the clear plastic is very good as it lets in plenty of sunshine.
Zippers are not flimsy but if it is pulled too hard, it can cause the plastic to rip off.
Features & Considerations
This mini greenhouse is moderate in size: 35.4"x70.8"x39" (LxWxH). It has sufficient space for plant pots and seedbeds.
As the weight is 11lbs, it is quite light and therefore, portable. The mini greenhouse is quite suitable for indoor & outdoor use. It is made of a sturdy powder-coated steel frame. The removable transparent UV resistant PVC film provides excellent aging resistance and weather withstanding ability.
The light penetration rate is excellent -- sufficient sunlight and heat preservation are ensured. It considerably extends the planting time.
It has 4 zipped doors including 2 roll-up zipped doors, which allows easy access and better ventilation and humidity. It also has 4 fixed ropes at every corner that makes the cover fit the frame sturdy.
7.Urban Born Glass Terrarium, Birdcage
Product introduction
This is an aesthetic mini glass greenhouse that is decorative and adds beauty to your garden, office, or home. The birdcage terrarium can be filled with plants and faux succulents and make your environment lively. It’s constructed of handmade glass and steel. This could also be a nice piece of gift for the adorable ones.
What Reviewers Say
Most reviewers have praised the beauty and extraordinary look of birdcage terrarium. People also love its size and height.
Reviewers also say although this mini greenhouse is not an actual terrarium, it is worthy of display and decoration.
Users shared good experience of planting carnivorous plants. They say that this mini greenhouse keeps the insects inside and the humidity stays well.
Reviewers have a bit issue with the door opening; they say it is relatively smaller -- 4" X 3.5". Therefore, they warn to place anything inside may not exceed those measurements.
Reviewers also mentioned good experience with orchid and mushroom.
People have expressed their joyful feeling saying it elegant and versatile.
Some reviewers have mentioned that they have decorated their office with it and it represents a nice look.
A few complaints are there with its door.
Features & Considerations
A birdcage shaped attractive mini-greenhouse, Urban Born Glass Terrarium is constructed of clear glass and a brass plated steel frame. It is well suitable to fit both at large and small spaces. The product dimension is 9" x 9" x 10". It comes with a double panel hinged door for easy watering, 7" x 4" opening. The item weight is only 3.74.
FAQ
Can I plant and use a mini greenhouse in all the seasons?
Yes, you can. However, you have to be aware of extreme weather conditions. You should know when to grow what. Places, where the weather is not too hot or cold, would allow you to grow the plants round the year.
Can I use a mini greenhouse inside my apartment on the balcony?
Yes, that is why mini greenhouses are so popular today. They suit well in little space. Just go for one after you have the right measurement where exactly you’ll put it.
Do all greenhouses come with a heating mechanism?
No. For trapping heat inside, some have special covers. Certain heaters, such as ceramic heaters or seedling heaters are recommended if you require a heating mechanism.
What is the major limitation of a mini greenhouse, which I should be aware of before purchasing one?
One major consideration is that you won’t be able to step inside in the little ones. You would also not be able to put a big number of pots and plants inside.
Can a new gardener easily use a mini greenhouse?
Yes, of course. Rather, beginners at gardening should go for a simple mini greenhouse to gain hands-on experience, because, it offers several benefits, which this article has already covered!
Final Words
Today’s ambitious gardeners cherish a dream with greenhouse implementation on their gardening venture. As we’ve already seen, modern small greenhouse features several advantages for the plants to grow. Starting from the longer growing season, weather protection, pest prevention and it offers many more advantages. Along with all these technical benefits, a mini greenhouse adds beauty to your garden, patio, balcony, and office premises.
It’s true that every type of gardening task cannot be accomplished in mini greenhouses. However, it serves its purposes well. One of the greatest strengths of mini greenhouses is the seed starting. As these small structures can develop heat and high levels of humidity quite rapidly, there is some extra care required for them. For passionate gardeners, these are no big issues. Their efforts are well rewarded through growing fruit, vegetables, and even cacti and orchids. The success stories are enormous and plant lovers and gardeners are very happy with miniature green houses.
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