40 Free DIY Greenhouse Plans To Build Your Own Greenhouse (2024)

Last year, I decided I wanted to grow my own vegetables and herbs. But I faced a big challenge: the unpredictable weather in my city made it almost impossible to grow anything outdoors year-round. That’s when I started looking into building my own greenhouse. I found 40 free DIY greenhouse plans online, which seemed like a great way to start my gardening journey without spending too much money.

The plans varied a lot, so I was able to find one that suited the size of my backyard and my budget perfectly. Building the greenhouse took some effort and a bit of learning, but it was an incredibly rewarding experience. By following the step-by-step instructions, I managed to construct a sturdy, functional greenhouse. This little structure has not only allowed me to cultivate my gardening passion but also provided a peaceful retreat in my backyard.

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I’m here to help by sharing these 40 free DIY greenhouse plans. They are a brilliant starting point for anyone wanting to grow their own plants at home. It’s a fulfilling project that can end with you having a lovely space full of greenery. So, why not give it a try? Assembling your own greenhouse can spark a new hobby or passion you’ll cherish for years.

1. Enclosed Garden Greenhouse Plan

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An enclosed garden greenhouse is a haven for your plants, keeping them warm and protected. Its solid design shields flora from harsh weather, making it ideal for year-round gardening enthusiasts seeking a reliable growing environment.

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2. Build A Wooden Greenhouse Plan

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Making a wooden greenhouse can add a rustic charm to your garden, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. Wood offers durability and a natural insulating property, beneficial for plant growth and creating a cozy, inviting space for your greenery.

3. Upcycled Window Greenhouse Plan

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Upcycled window greenhouses not only benefit the environment by repurposing materials but also provide a unique, cost-effective solution for plant lovers. This design maximizes sunlight exposure, fostering healthy plant growth while showcasing your commitment to sustainability.

4. Build Your Own Greenhouse

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Embarking on building your own greenhouse can be a rewarding project, offering complete customization to fit your specific gardening needs. It allows you to select materials, sizes, and features that perfectly complement your gardening style and space.

5. Cheap DIY Window Greenhouse

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A cheap DIY window greenhouse is perfect for gardeners on a budget, proving that you don’t have to spend a lot to create a functional space for your plants. It utilizes affordable materials to protect your plants from the elements efficiently.

6. Inexpensive Fold Down Greenhouse

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An inexpensive fold-down greenhouse is a smart choice for those with limited space. Its collapsible design allows for easy storage when not in use, making it an ideal solution for seasonal gardeners looking for flexibility and convenience.

7. Make a Greenhouse From an Old Carport

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Transforming an old carport into a greenhouse is a creative and cost-effective way to give new life to unused structures. This approach not only recycles materials but also provides ample space for a wide range of plants.

8. Mini Greenhouse from Old House Windows

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A mini greenhouse crafted from old house windows combines charm with functionality. This quaint, eco-friendly option is perfect for small gardens or balconies, offering just enough space to keep your cherished plants warm.

9. How To Build A Greenhouse

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Learning how to build a greenhouse can open up a world of gardening possibilities. It empowers you with the knowledge to create a tailored space that suits your gardening habits, maximizing the health and productivity of your plants.

10. Low-Cost Geodetic Greenhouse

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A low-cost geodetic greenhouse stands out for its strength and efficiency in design. Its dome shape ensures even light distribution, making it an innovative and budget-friendly option for gardeners looking to optimize their plant growth.

11. Super Cheap Hoop Garden House

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The super cheap hoop garden house is a testament to the idea that effective gardening solutions don’t have to break the bank. Its simple, no-frills design is easy to construct, making it a great starting point for novice gardeners.

12. DIY Greenhouse for the North

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A DIY greenhouse designed for the north is built with cold climates in mind. Its robust construction and insulation options protect plants against frost, ensuring your gardening efforts are fruitful, even in cooler regions.

13. Arched PVC Greenhouse Plan

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The arched PVC greenhouse plan offers a lightweight yet durable option for your gardening needs. Its curved design helps resist wind and snow, making it a dependable choice for varied climates, all while being cost-effective.

14. Small and Portable Modular Greenhouse

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Small and portable, a modular greenhouse is perfect for those who appreciate flexibility. Its compact design can be easily moved or expanded, catering to the ever-changing needs of your gardening journey or spatial constraints.

15. How to Build a Small Greenhouse

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Building a small greenhouse can be a practical and satisfying project, perfect for nurturing a select variety of plants. It offers a tailored space that focuses on the specific needs of your smaller plant collection.

16. Greenhouse With An Open Bottom

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A greenhouse with an open bottom allows for direct soil planting, creating a natural environment for your plants. This design encourages deep root growth and is particularly suited for gardeners looking to blend their greenhouse seamlessly into their garden landscape.

17. Create A Greenhouse Out Of A Trampoline

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Making a greenhouse out of a trampoline is an innovative and fun project. This unique reuse of materials not only saves costs but also gives you a sturdy, circular greenhouse, adding a point of interest to your garden.

18. DIY GeoDome Greenhouse For Winter

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A DIY GeoDome greenhouse is ideal for winter gardening, offering a strong, geodesic design that’s efficient at retaining heat. Its snow-shedding and wind-resistant features make it a standout choice for colder climates.

19. Greenhouse Made From Old Windows

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A greenhouse made from old windows is a charming and eco-friendly project. This design maximizes recycling, reduces waste, and provides a quaint, effective shelter for your plants, all while adding a touch of vintage appeal to your garden.

20. Small Portable Outdoor Greenhouse

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A small, portable outdoor greenhouse is perfect for gardeners on the go or with limited space. Its compact, easy-to-move design makes it simple to adjust to changing sunlight patterns, ensuring your plants always get the care they need.

21. Free Greenhouse Plan

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Looking for a cost-effective way to start gardening earlier in the year? A free greenhouse plan can be your gateway to extending growing seasons without spending a penny. These plans provide clear instructions, enabling anyone to create a sustainable space for plants to thrive.

22. Building A Greenhouse From Old Windows

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Imagine giving old windows a new life while benefiting your garden. Building a greenhouse from salvaged windows not only recycles materials but also adds a charming rustic touch to your outdoor space. It’s a creative and eco-friendly project that enhances your gardening experience.

23. Small Greenhouse For Your Backyard

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A small greenhouse in your backyard is a perfect solution for gardeners with limited space. It can protect tender plants from harsh weather, allowing you to garden year-round. Compact yet effective, these greenhouses are ideal for personal use, offering an intimate space for growing your favorites.

24. DIY Pallet Greenhouse

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A DIY pallet greenhouse combines sustainability with functionality. Using repurposed pallets to construct a greenhouse is not only cost-efficient but also contributes to reducing waste. This approach offers a sturdy structure for your garden, providing a nurturing environment for plants in an eco-friendly manner.

25. Wood Frame Greenhouse

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Opting for a wood frame greenhouse brings natural aesthetics and durability to your garden. Wood is a strong, versatile material that blends seamlessly with outdoor environments, creating a cozy space for plants to flourish. Its warm and inviting design makes gardening an even more enjoyable activity.

26. How to Make a Glass Jar Greenhouse

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Get inventive with a glass jar greenhouse. This miniature greenhouse creates a microclimate perfect for small plants or seedlings, harnessing sunlight effectively to promote growth. It’s an excellent project for those looking to dip their toes into greenhouse gardening without committing to a larger structure.

27. Building A Homedepot Greenhouse

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Building a Homedepot greenhouse involves selecting supplies from a well-known home improvement store, ensuring quality and reliability. This project gives you the freedom to customize your greenhouse to fit your needs, utilizing dependable materials that support a thriving garden.

28. Green House Project

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Embarking on a green house project can transform your gardening experience. This endeavor not only allows you to cultivate a wider variety of plants but also contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle. It’s an investment in both your hobby and the environment.

29. 10 x 65 Back Door Greenhouse

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A 10 x 6.5 back door greenhouse is an excellent addition for those seeking convenience and efficiency. Located just steps away from your home, this greenhouse makes tending to your plants easy, integrating seamlessly into your daily routine.

30. Plastic Sheeting 2 x 4 Greenhouse

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Constructing a greenhouse with plastic sheeting and 2 x 4s is a budget-friendly and adaptable approach. This type of greenhouse can be customized to fit any size garden, offering a protective environment for plants with materials that are easily accessible.

31. Homemade Greenhouse

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A homemade greenhouse showcases your DIY skills while creating a dedicated space for your gardening passion. Using materials on hand or repurposed items, this project is a reflection of your creativity and commitment to your green thumb.

32. DIY Greenhouse Raised Bed Garden

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Integrating a DIY greenhouse with a raised bed garden maximizes your gardening potential. This combination not only improves drainage and soil quality but also provides a controlled environment for plants to thrive, making it an efficient use of space.

33. Make A Greenhouse From A Pallet

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Making a greenhouse from a pallet is a smart and sustainable choice. This project reflects a commitment to recycling, as pallets are transformed into a valuable asset for your garden. It’s a practical approach to creating a protective space for plants.

34. 10 X 16 Greenhouse Plan

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A 10 x 16 greenhouse plan offers ample space for a diverse garden. This size accommodates a variety of plants, from vegetables to flowers, providing a versatile environment for gardening enthusiasts to explore different horticultural projects.

35. No Budget Indoor Greenhouse

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A no-budget indoor greenhouse is perfect for gardeners looking to start small. Utilizing everyday items to create a mini greenhouse inside your home allows you to experiment with plant cultivation without any financial investment, making it accessible to everyone.

36. Make Your Own PVC Greenhouse

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Constructing your own PVC greenhouse is an affordable way to achieve gardening success. PVC pipes offer a durable, weather-resistant structure that’s easy to assemble, making it an ideal choice for those looking to build a resilient greenhouse.

37. Building A Lean To Greenhouse

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A lean-to greenhouse offers the convenience of location and efficient use of space. Attached to an existing structure, it takes advantage of shared heat, making it a smart, space-saving solution for growing plants in cooler climates.

38. Small DIY Greenhouse

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Building a small DIY greenhouse is a rewarding project that can fit into any garden size. It’s perfect for personal use, allowing you to focus on a select number of plants, giving them the care and attention they need to thrive.

39. How to Build a Polytunnel Polytunnel Construction

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Learning how to build a polytunnel involves constructing a tunnel-shaped greenhouse covered in polyethylene. This design traps heat and moisture, creating an optimal growing environment while being cost-effective and relatively easy to construct.

40. Simple, Sturdy Greenhouse From 2x4s

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A simple, sturdy greenhouse made from 2x4s can withstand the elements while providing a nurturing space for your plants. This straightforward design emphasizes functionality, offering a reliable shelter that’s accessible to gardeners of all skill levels.

Conclusion:

Building my own greenhouse from these plans has been a game-changer for my gardening. It’s a project I highly recommend to anyone wanting to extend their gardening season or protect their plants. The sense of achievement you’ll feel when you see your plants thriving in the greenhouse you built yourself is invaluable. Let these plans guide you to create a green haven of your own.

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40 Free DIY Greenhouse Plans To Build Your Own Greenhouse (2024)

FAQs

What is the most inexpensive way to build a greenhouse? ›

The most inexpensive way to build a greenhouse is to purchase a standard greenhouse-building kit from a hardware store.

Is it cheaper to build a greenhouse or buy a kit? ›

Greenhouse kits tend to be cheaper than custom-built options. Kits come with pre-cut materials and detailed instructions that make it easier to assemble the greenhouse. However, custom-built greenhouses offer more flexibility in terms of design and can be tailored to your specific needs.

What is the cheapest material for a greenhouse? ›

Pressure-treated lumber or cinder blocks are budget-friendly options that provide adequate support. For flooring, consider using pea gravel or landscape fabric. These materials allow for good drainage, which is crucial for a healthy greenhouse environment.

What is the easiest base for a greenhouse? ›

Integral Base

This is by far the easiest option, as it does not require any further building or construction, as it forms part of the frame itself.

What direction should a greenhouse face? ›

For those in the Northern hemisphere, the length of the greenhouse (longer dimension) should face south as this is where the majority of light comes from. The north side of the greenhouse will collect little, if any light, and should be insulated to reduce heat loss.

What grows best in a greenhouse? ›

Growing tender crops such as aubergines, cucumbers, peppers and chillies and tomatoes through the summer months. Trying more exotic, heat-loving plants such as okra, melons and sweet potatoes, Making use of the autumn sun to raise late salad crops, French beans and even calabrese.

Does a DIY greenhouse need ventilation? ›

Good ventilation is critical in maintaining an optimal growing environment and improves the overall efficiency of a greenhouse. It is essential for both good temperature and humidity management.

What is the best wood for a greenhouse? ›

For The Structure, Consider Cedar

Here are a few reasons why cedar is the optimal choice: Strength. Cedar is among the strongest woods, and its strength allows it to hold up in the harshest of conditions.

What can I use instead of a greenhouse? ›

There are various DIY greenhouse designs to consider, such as hoop houses, PVC pipe greenhouses, or even repurposing old materials like windows and doors. With a little research and some basic construction skills, you can create a functional and affordable greenhouse tailored to your gardening aspirations.

What is the best glass for a greenhouse? ›

Over 200 times stronger than standard glass, polycarbonate is almost unbreakable, making it ideal for greenhouse glazing. The fact that it is so durable makes it a great long-term investment.

What is the best wall for a greenhouse? ›

Best Greenhouse Covering Materials
  • Polyethylene: The most common and cost-efficient material, polyethylene is durable and has great light transmission. ...
  • Polycarbonate: Also a good choice, polycarbonate is almost as transparent as glass.
Aug 19, 2022

How do you keep a cheap greenhouse warm? ›

Other Cheap Ways of Heating a Greenhouse
  1. Inspect and seal your greenhouse. Look for cracks or gaps that could let in the cold and seal them with weatherproof tape or silicone caulk. ...
  2. Divide your greenhouse. ...
  3. Install thermostat-controlled heaters. ...
  4. Use heat mats for targeted warmth. ...
  5. Create DIY thermal mass heaters.
Nov 20, 2023

How much does it cost to build a greenhouse from scratch? ›

Most hardware stores sell greenhouse-building kits that allow you to build a standard one yourself. But if you prefer something larger and more customized, consider hiring a professional. Building one can cost between $2,500 to $25,000, or about $15,000 on average.

How much does a 100 square foot greenhouse cost? ›

Greenhouse Cost per Square Foot
Size of Greenhouse per Square FootCost Range (Installed)Average Cost (Installed)
100 Square Feet$500 – $3,500$2,000
250 Square Feet$1,250 – $8,750$5,000
500 Square Feet$2,500 – $17,500$10,000
750 Square Feet$3,750 – $26,250$15,000
2 more rows

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