Unbiased Review: Is A Cedar Greenhouse Worth Buying In 2024?

Gardening lovers often struggle to find the right spot for their passion as seasons change. Cedar greenhouse options have soared in popularity, promising year-round growing possibilities.

In this article, we’ll dig deep into whether a cedar greenhouse is a blooming great investment or if you should leaf it alone in 2024. Keep reading – your garden’s future could depend on it!

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Overview of Cedar-Built Greenhouses

Cedar-built greenhouses are known for their reliability, ease of assembly, and excellence. But are they actually worth buying with so many different options available?

Recently I spent time helping one of my close friends build a cedar greenhouse and that is the basis for this review, it’s been a few months now and I want to give you the low-down on all the good, the bad and the ugly side of these greenhouses so that you can make an educated decision on whether they are right for you or not.

cedar greenhouse

Pro’s and Con’s Of A Cedar Greenhouse

Let’s first get into the pro’s and con’s so we have a good understanding of these greenhouses.

Pros:

Durability and Longevity:Cedar is naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insect infestations, which makes it an extremely durable material for greenhouses. This longevity ensures that your greenhouse can withstand various weather conditions and last for many years.
Aesthetic Appeal:Cedar has a natural, rustic beauty that enhances the look of any garden or outdoor space. Its rich color and grain patterns add a charming and elegant touch to your property.
Natural Insulation:Cedar wood has good insulative properties, helping to maintain a consistent temperature inside the greenhouse. This is beneficial for plant growth as it ensures a stable environment, regardless of external weather conditions.
Moisture Resistance:Cedar’s ability to withstand high humidity levels makes it ideal for the moist environment of a greenhouse, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth.

Cons:

Cost:Cedar greenhouses are generally more expensive than those made from other materials like aluminum or plastic. The initial investment can be a significant factor for some buyers.
Maintenance Requirements:While cedar is durable, it does require regular maintenance to retain its appearance and prolong its lifespan. This includes tasks like staining or sealing the wood to protect it from the elements.
Availability:Depending on your location, cedar might not be as readily available as other materials, potentially increasing the cost and difficulty of obtaining it.
Potential for Wood Warping:Although cedar is resistant to many forms of damage, it can still be susceptible to warping over time if not properly maintained, especially in fluctuating weather conditions.

So you can see that there is good and bad around a cedar greenhouse. But how do they compare?

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How Does A Cedar Greenhouse Compare To Other Greenhouses?

cedar greenhouse

When evaluating the merits of a cedar greenhouse, it’s essential to consider how it stacks up against other types of greenhouses available on the market. Cedar greenhouses offer a unique combination of aesthetics and functionality, but let’s take a look at how they compare to their competitors in several key areas.

FeatureCedar GreenhouseAluminum GreenhousePolycarbonate Greenhouse
Material DurabilityNaturally resistant to rot and pestsResists corrosion, less sturdy in high windsStrong with good insulation, prone to scratches
InsulationExcellent natural insulatorConducts heat, may require additional insulationGood thermal insulation
MaintenanceRegular treatment to maintain resistanceMinimal maintenance, occasional cleaningRegular cleaning to maintain transparency
AestheticsClassic, natural lookModern, industrial appearanceCan vary, often with a clear or opaque look
Price PointGenerally higher due to material qualityMid-range, varies with featuresCost-effective, wide range of prices
Eco-FriendlinessSustainable material, biodegradableRecyclable, but production is energy-intensiveOften recyclable, long lifespan

Based on this, we can see that there are very tangible benefits towards owning a cedar greenhouse. So let’s talk about my experience with them.

What’s A Good Cedar Greenhouse To Buy In 2024?

cedar greenhouse

Where To Buy: Amazon

Features & Specs:
– Dimensions of 8×12

– Made of Western Red Cedar

– Complete cedar greenhouse kit

This 8’x12′ Cedar Greenhouse is a nice addition to any backyard, blending both beauty and functionality. Constructed from rustic Western Red Cedar, it’s not just visually appealing but also highly practical. The greenhouse offers a safe space for starting new seedlings and keeping plants warm during colder months. Its design is flexible enough to fit into any convenient spot in your outdoor space.

One of the standout features of this greenhouse is its ventilation system, which includes two heat-activated roof vents and additional lower wall vents. This ensures a well-regulated environment for plant growth. The walls and roof are made of 6mm thick polygal twin wall polycarbonate, providing an ideal habitat for plants.

The use of Canadian Western Red Cedar in the construction of this greenhouse brings several benefits. It’s moisture-resistant, making it perfect for high humidity environments typical in greenhouses. The material is also naturally insect and decay-resistant, which means less worry about pests and rot. Cedar’s excellent insulation properties help maintain a stable temperature and moisture level, crucial for plant growth. Moreover, this type of wood is long-lasting, ensuring that with proper care, the greenhouse will be a part of your garden for many years.

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Check Price ➡️ Amazon

How Do You Treat A Cedar Wood Greenhouse?

One of the big downsides of a cedar greenhouse is the maintenance.

Treating a cedar wood greenhouse typically involves applying a protective stain or sealant to shield it from the elements. This should be done every few years to maintain the wood’s resistance to moisture and to preserve its natural color and beauty. It’s also recommended to clean the wood regularly and inspect for any signs of damage or wear.

Typically you will want to use a honey-based wood polish and conditioner to make sure that you are looking after the wood properly. Here is a good example of something to look into:

Howard Feed-N-Wax Wood Polish

Where To Buy: Amazon

Features & Specs:
– 16 ounce bottle

– Wood polish and conditioner that prevents drying and deterioration of wood.

– Contains beeswax and orange oil that nourish natural woods.

The Howard Feed-N-Wax Wood Polish and Conditioner is a great product for maintaining cedar greenhouses. This 16-ounce liquid polish, with a pleasant orange scent, is specifically designed to enhance and protect wood surfaces. It combines Carnauba Wax and Beeswax to polish wood to a soft luster, while also adding conditioning oils that nourish the wood. This helps prevent drying and fading, especially important for outdoor structures like cedar greenhouses.

It’s perfect for various wood surfaces, including antiques, dining tables, kitchen cabinets, and of course, cedar greenhouses. The polish not only enhances the natural beauty and depth of the wood grain but also helps prevent further deterioration of the finish. It doesn’t contain silicone or linseed oils, which is good for maintaining the natural state of the wood.

Application is easy: just wipe it on with a soft cloth, let it stand, and then polish off the excess. Regular use of this product can keep your cedar greenhouse looking great and well-maintained, enhancing its natural grain and beauty.

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

How Long Do Cedar Greenhouses Last If You Maintain It?

A cedar greenhouse can last for several decades, often up to 30 years or more, with proper maintenance. Its natural resistance to elements like rot, decay, and insects contributes significantly to its longevity. Regular care, such as applying a protective stain or sealant, can further extend its lifespan.

So long story short – if you look after it then you won’t have many issues around rotting and deterioration.

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Does Cedar Rot Easily?

No, cedar does not rot easily. It’s one of the most rot-resistant woods available, making it an ideal choice for outdoor structures like greenhouses. Its natural oils provide resistance to moisture, decay, and insect damage. However, like all wood, it can eventually succumb to rot if not properly maintained, especially in environments with extreme weather conditions. Regular maintenance is key to preventing rot in cedar wood.

What Accessories Do You Need For A Cedar Greenhouse?

Before making your final decision on purchasing a Cedar-Built Greenhouse, consider the matching accessories available. From shelving and workbenches to automatic vent openers and shade cloth systems, these additional components can enhance the functionality and convenience of your greenhouse.

The right accessories will help you optimize space usage, maintain ideal growing conditions for plants, and streamline your gardening activities.

To complement your Cedar-Built Greenhouse, look for durable tables that provide ample workspace for potting and organizing tools. Additionally, ventilation systems are essential for regulating temperature and humidity levels within the greenhouse.

You can also look into things like heaters to control the temperature in the winter, fans to manage heat in the summer and a good ‘smart’ thermometer to make sure that you’re getting things right.

Final verdict on the value of a Cedar-Built Greenhouse

cedar greenhouse

After considering all the pros and cons, it’s clear that investing in a Cedar-built greenhouse is worth every penny… But just not right away.

You’re going to see your real gains over time with a cedar greenhouse because they tend to last longer than other material types. So it’ll be more expensive on the outset – but you won’t be replacing it anytime soon.

The ease of assembly and sustainable sourcing of materials further contribute to its overall appeal as a reliable and worthwhile investment.

Choosing a Cedar-built greenhouse not only provides an excellent space for nurturing plants but also adds enduring beauty to outdoor living spaces. The numerous benefits and features make it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a functional yet stylish addition to their gardening repertoire.

Here are some other beautiful wood greenhouses for you to consider:
4 Beautiful Wood Greenhouses To Buy For A Natural Look (2024)

Conclusion

In summary, a Cedar-Built Greenhouse emerges as a robust and attractive choice for garden enthusiasts in 2024. Its unparalleled durability, natural resistance to environmental factors, and aesthetic charm make it stand out against other materials. While the initial investment might be higher, the long-term benefits and minimal maintenance requirements justify the cost. These greenhouses not only enhance the beauty of your outdoor space but also offer a sustainable, efficient, and rewarding gardening experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, the ease of assembly, the ability to withstand various weather conditions, and the potential to create a year-round growing environment make cedar greenhouses a valuable addition to any garden.

By weighing the pros and cons and considering the unique characteristics of cedar, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your gardening aspirations and lifestyle. Ultimately, investing in a Cedar-Built Greenhouse is not just about gardening; it’s about enriching your outdoor living space with a structure that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, promising to be a focal point in your garden for years to come.

FAQs

Is cedar good for a greenhouse?

Yes, cedar is an excellent choice for a greenhouse. It’s known for its natural beauty, durability, and resistance to rot, decay, and insects. Cedar also provides good insulation, helping to maintain a consistent temperature inside the greenhouse, which is crucial for plant growth. Additionally, its ability to resist moisture makes it ideal for the humid conditions typical in greenhouses.

Can I assemble a cedar greenhouse by myself?

Yes, you can assemble a cedar greenhouse by yourself, but it depends on a few factors like your DIY skills, the complexity of the greenhouse kit, and the tools you have available. Cedar greenhouses typically come in pre-cut and pre-drilled kits, making the assembly process more manageable for a single person

Does a cedar greenhouse purify the air?

A cedar greenhouse itself does not purify the air. The primary function of a greenhouse, regardless of its material, is to create a controlled environment for growing plants. The cedar structure provides durability, insulation, and aesthetic appeal, but it does not have air-purifying properties.

Is it cost-effective to invest in a cedar greenhouse for 2024?

Investing in a cedar greenhouse in 2024 can be cost-effective, depending on your long-term gardening goals and budget. Cedar greenhouses are known for their durability and aesthetic appeal, and they often last much longer than greenhouses made from less durable materials. This longevity means that while the initial cost might be higher, the investment can pay off over time as you won’t need to replace it as soon. Additionally, cedar’s natural resistance to rot, decay, and pests reduces the need for expensive maintenance or repairs.

What is the best wood for a greenhouse?

When choosing the best wood for a greenhouse, consider cedar, redwood, or black locust. Cedar offers durability, insulation, and beauty. Redwood is similarly rot-resistant and visually appealing. Black locust stands out for its exceptional hardness and longevity. Each type balances durability, aesthetics, and environmental resistance, catering to varied preferences and budgets.

Here are the best wood greenhouses on the market:
4 Beautiful Wood Greenhouses To Buy For A Natural Look (2024)
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Jason Watson

My initial goal was to protect my loved ones from harmful pesticides & help them enjoy nature more. Now, I want to tell as many people as I can about what I've learned... I hope that I can inspire you to help cool our planet with your own little slice of paradise 🌱. Let's do this together!


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