Best Small Greenhouse Picks For 2024 & Beyond
If you’re looking to get your plants thriving all year long, adding a small greenhouse to your setup can make a big difference. Whether you’re just starting with indoor gardening, want a sturdy outdoor setup, or need something versatile you can move inside or out, there’s a small greenhouse that’s perfect for you (1). In this guide, we’ll dive into the best options across all categories—indoor, outdoor, hybrid, and garden bed greenhouses.
From budget-friendly picks to top performers, each recommendation has been carefully chosen for unique strengths, giving you a clear view of what each greenhouse offers. Let’s explore which one will best help your plants grow and keep them protected season after season!
Looking for the best polycarbonate greenhouses in 2024? The Best Polycarbonate Greenhouses To Buy In 2024 For People On A Budget |
Table Of Contents
Here Are The Top Small Greenhouses To Keep Your Eye On
I have broken the article up into 3 different categories of small greenhouse picks.
Here they are:
- Indoor Small Greenhouses
- Outdoor Small Greenhouses
- Hybrid Small Greenhouses (Indoor Or Outdoor)
- Garden Bed Small Greenhouses
So I will give you recommendations in each of these sections so you have all your bases covered. Let’s get into them.
Indoor Small Greenhouse Picks
Here are the top small greenhouse picks for indoors:
Category | Small Greenhouse |
Barrina 4-Tier Portable | Best Performer |
Bstrip 4-Tier Portable | Best Budget Indoor Small Greenhouse |
Let’s go through them:
#1:Â Barrina 4-Tier Portable (Best Performer)
Overall Thoughts
The Barrina 4-Tier Portable greenhouse is a powerhouse for indoor plant lovers. With a strong 220-lb capacity, full-spectrum grow lights, and easy mobility, it’s ideal for serious indoor gardening. Adjustable shelves make it versatile, while the EVA cover keeps warmth and moisture in. The six LED grow lights are effective but can be a bit intense for smaller spaces, and it needs an outlet nearby for power. Overall, it’s nearly perfect for dedicated indoor growers, only missing points for brightness and outlet reliance.
PROS | CONS |
– Adjustable shelves for flexible setup. – Easy to move with wheels and lockable casters. – Strong 220-lb weight capacity – can handle many plants. – Full-spectrum LED grow lights boost growth indoors. – EVA cover keeps warmth and moisture in, ideal for indoor gardening. | – LED lights may be too bright for some rooms. – Requires an electrical outlet nearby for lights and timer. |
Other Details
This indoor greenhouse from Barrina is built for plant lovers who need a serious setup indoors. It’s got a 4-tier metal stand, perfect for holding lots of plants, and even comes with wheels so you can move it around easily. With six LED grow lights, the full spectrum lighting is designed to mimic natural sunlight, helping your plants grow faster. It’s also got a timer and thermo-hygrometer for temperature control. The sturdy EVA cover keeps things warm and humid, while the zippered front makes it easy to check in on your plants. No tools needed for setup, and the whole thing holds up to 220 lbs, so it’s ready for a range of indoor gardening needs.
Check Price ➡️ Amazon |
#2:Â Bstrip 4-Tier Portable (Budget Indoor Small Greenhouse)
Overall Thoughts
The Bstrip 4-Tier Portable greenhouse offers great value for an indoor setup. It’s compact and ideal for small spaces with its PVC cover and dimmable grow lights. Adjustable light modes suit various plants, though the setup is less suitable for heavier plants or larger specimens due to a lower weight capacity. The lighting is also on the lower end for certain plant types. For beginners or anyone needing a budget-friendly solution for smaller plants, it’s a solid pick with room for improvement.
PROS | CONS |
– Great value for a complete indoor setup. – Great for small spaces – Roll-up PVC cover for easy access and ventilation. – Adjustable lighting modes for different plant needs. | – Limited weight capacity – not ideal for heavier plants. – Not suitable for very large plants due to size. – Lighting power may be low for certain types of plants. |
Other Details
The Bstrip small greenhouse is ideal for indoor plant starters who want to work on seed trays or small potted plants. Standing about 62 inches tall, it fits comfortably in small spaces but gives you 4 tiers of plant storage. The PVC cover with a roll-up zippered door keeps it humid inside, and you can easily see your plants without having to open it. The included LED grow lights have three color modes (yellow, pink, and mixed) and a dimming feature, so you can tweak the lighting to suit your plants. Sturdy steel tubing gives it stability, and the timer makes it easy to manage light schedules for year-round growth.
Check Price ➡️ Amazon |
Outdoor Small Greenhouse Picks
Now that you’ve seen the indoor options, let’s go through the outdoor picks that I will be recommending to you today.
Here they are:
Category | Small Greenhouse |
Best Outdoor Small Greenhouse | Eagle Peak 8×6 |
Best Compact Walk-In Greenhouse | SV Scool Value Walk-In |
Let’s get into them 🙂
#3:Â Eagle Peak 8×6 (Best Outdoor Small Greenhouse)
Overall Thoughts
Eagle Peak’s 8×6 Walk-In Greenhouse is perfect for anyone looking for a durable, spacious outdoor setup. The pop-up design means it’s ready to go in seconds, and the reinforced steel frame holds up well in outdoor conditions. Large roll-up doors and windows provide ventilation, while the premium PE cover is eco-friendly and durable. It’s heavy and not portable once set up, and high winds can be challenging. For large-scale outdoor use, it’s tough to beat, losing a few points only for its bulkiness.
PROS | CONS |
– Super easy, one-person setup with pop-up technology. – Reinforced steel frame withstands various outdoor conditions. – Large roll-up doors and windows for easy access and ventilation. – Premium PE cover provides strong UV and weather protection. – Large walk-in design allows plenty of room for shelves. | – Heavier than most portable greenhouses. – Limited portability once set up due to size. – Frame may not withstand very high winds. |
Other Details
This is an outdoor walk-in greenhouse designed to pop up and be ready in seconds—no tools needed. It’s big (8×6 feet), giving you plenty of room to set up shelves and move around as you tend to your plants. The reinforced steel frame is sturdy and can handle various weather conditions, while the PE cover is durable and better for the environment than typical PVC covers. The greenhouse also has two zippered roll-up doors and mesh windows, so you can get the right ventilation and temperature for your plants. Perfect for a larger outdoor garden space.
Check Price ➡️ Amazon |
#4:Â SV Scool Value Walk-In (Best Compact Walk-In Greenhouse)
Overall Thoughts
The SV Scool Value Walk-In Greenhouse packs a lot into a compact frame. It’s ideal for smaller outdoor spaces, with three tiers and a roll-up door for easy access. The lightweight steel frame can hold up to 50 lbs per shelf, and the PE cover provides UV and temperature protection. It requires anchoring in wind, and the height limits it for larger plants, but it’s otherwise a solid choice for those wanting a compact yet effective walk-in greenhouse.
PROS | CONS |
– Compact walk-in design fits into smaller outdoor spaces. – Lightweight and easy to move around. – PE cover resists low temperatures and provides UV protection. – Roll-up door offers convenient access and ventilation. | – Not as tall – limited space for very large plants. – Needs secure anchoring to prevent tipping in wind. – Assembly can take time due to multi-tier structure. |
Other Details
The SV Scool Value small greenhouse is a solid outdoor choice for anyone needing extra space. It’s a walk-in design with 3 tiers on each side and a roll-up zippered door, so it’s easy to move plants in and out. The steel frame is lightweight but can hold up to 50 lbs per shelf, and it includes anchors for stability during windy days. The PE cover is non-toxic and resists low temps and corrosion, creating a solid environment for your plants all year round. Super easy to assemble and light enough to move around as needed.
Check Price ➡️ Amazon |
Hybrid Small Greenhouse Picks
These are some great small greenhouse options that you can either outdoors or indoors.
Here they are:
Category | Small Greenhouse |
Most Versatile Small Greenhouse | Ohuhu Small Greenhouse |
Great Pop-Up Greenhouse | Porayhut Pop-Up Hybrid |
And just like before – let’s go through them so you have all the information.
#5:Â Ohuhu Small Greenhouse (Most Versatile Small Greenhouse)
Overall Thoughts
Ohuhu’s Small Greenhouse shines for indoor-outdoor flexibility, with 4 stable tiers and a durable, rustproof frame. The PE cover resists UV and water, so it’s good year-round, and the roll-up zippered door gives easy access. However, its weight capacity is on the lower side, and rough handling may tear the cover. Anchoring outdoors is recommended. Overall, it’s versatile and reliable, just missing points for strength with heavier plants.
PROS | CONS |
– Roll-up zippered door provides good access and airflow. – Patented shelf clips add stability. – Rustproof frame and sturdy PE cover for durability. – Can double as a standalone plant rack without the cover. | – Limited weight capacity – not ideal for heavy plants. – PE cover may tear with rough use. – Needs anchoring outdoors to withstand wind. – Assembly instructions could be clearer. |
Other Details
Ohuhu’s small greenhouse works indoors or outdoors, with 4 tiers of shelves that hold up to 22 lbs each. The frame is rustproof and the PE cover is tough against UV and water, so it’s great for protecting plants in any season. The zippered roll-up door keeps it ventilated and makes it easy to access your plants, while the screen helps keep pests out. It’s also tool-free to assemble, and if you want, you can take the cover off and just use it as a plant stand. Good for beginners and anyone who wants a simple greenhouse that can be used year-round.
Check Price ➡️ Amazon |
#6:Â Porayhut Pop-Up Hybrid (Great Pop-Up Greenhouse)
Overall Thoughts
The Porayhut Pop-Up Hybrid Greenhouse is super easy to set up indoors or outdoors, thanks to its pop-up design. It’s compact but provides good protection with a UV-resistant PVC cover and ventilation window. The frame can bend in strong winds, and ventilation could be better, as it can get too warm inside. It’s ideal for quick setups and smaller plants, though the cover may need replacement over time. Great for easy, temporary use.
PROS | CONS |
– Quick and easy pop-up design – no tools needed. – Transparent window lets you monitor plants without opening. – UV-protected PVC cover shields plants from sun and rain. – Folds up for compact storage when not in use. | – Frame might bend in strong winds. – Limited ventilation – can get too warm inside. – Cover may need replacement after extended outdoor use. |
Other Details
The Porayhut greenhouse is perfect for a quick, no-fuss setup indoors or outdoors, thanks to its pop-up design. It’s compact at about 27 inches wide and 31 inches tall, but still roomy enough for small plants or even a pet tent if you’re into that! The greenhouse is reinforced with steel hoops and has a clear UV-resistant PVC cover that provides solid protection from the elements. You can see your plants easily through the cover, and it even has a zippered window for ventilation. Super easy to store, foldable, and lightweight—ideal for anyone who needs a flexible greenhouse on the go.
Check Price ➡️ Amazon |
Garden Bed Small Greenhouse Picks
Now we get to our final category, which is the garden bed greenhouses. Some people love these and they work really well for keeping out pests.
So I figured – “why not? I might as well give you some of these to look into also”.
So here they are:
Category | Small Greenhouse |
Best Garden Bed Greenhouse | Quictent Small Greenhouse |
Best for Covering Garden Beds | Quictent Small Cloche Greenhouse |
Let’s go into them.
#7:Â Quictent Small Greenhouse (Best Garden Bed Greenhouse)
Overall Thoughts
The Quictent Small Greenhouse is perfect for those needing a greenhouse over a raised garden bed. The galvanized metal frame and PVC cover keep pests out and warmth in, with zippered screen windows for airflow. It’s heavy when filled with soil and not easy to move, plus the cover may degrade faster than the frame. Overall, it’s a long-lasting, sturdy setup that’s well-suited for outdoor gardening.
PROS | CONS |
– Perfect for outdoor use over a raised garden bed. – Large growing space – holds a lot of soil and plants. – Strong, galvanized metal sides are weather-resistant. – Durable construction – comes with a 5-year warranty. – Zippered screen windows for airflow and pest control. | – Heavy once filled with soil – hard to move. – Cover may not last as long as the metal frame. – Can get too warm in direct sun without airflow adjustments. |
Other Details
This one’s a garden bed greenhouse, perfect for outdoor use. It combines a raised galvanized metal bed with a clear PVC cover that keeps pests out and warmth in, making it perfect for veggies and herbs. The structure is strong, with thick metal and two reinforcing bars to prevent sagging. Plus, you can open the zippered screen windows for ventilation or to control the temperature inside. It’s pretty spacious, holding up to 18 cubic feet of soil and giving your plants lots of room to spread out. Quictent includes a 5-year warranty on the garden bed part, so it’s built to last.
Check Price ➡️ Amazon |
#8:Â Quictent Small Cloche Greenhouse (Best for Covering Garden Beds)
Overall Thoughts
The Quictent Small Cloche Greenhouse is an excellent choice for covering garden beds and provides a snug fit with its extended cover design. It’s lightweight, easy to set up, and great for insulation. However, it’s less durable in high winds and is best for short plants or seasonal use. For gardeners needing a seasonal cover that’s easy to manage, it’s a good fit but isn’t ideal for year-round use.
PROS | CONS |
– Perfect size to go over garden beds for extra protection. – PVC cover holds warmth, helping plants germinate faster. – Lightweight and easy to set up or move. – Extended cover design keeps the greenhouse stable and snug. | – Not as durable in high winds without additional securing. – Limited height, so better for short plants and seedlings. – Only suited for seasonal use in milder climates. |
Other Details
This is the perfect setup to go over a garden bed, giving your plants solid protection outdoors. It’s a cloche-style greenhouse with sturdy steel tubing and a durable PVC cover, so it stands up to sun and rain. At 71 inches wide, it fits well over larger potted plants or seed beds, keeping things warm and insulated. The cover extends beyond the frame for a snug fit, and with two doors and four zippers, you can control airflow easily. Lightweight and easy to set up, it’s a great small greenhouse!
Check Price ➡️ Amazon |
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Small Greenhouse
Choosing the right small greenhouse can make a big difference in how well your plants grow and how easy it is to care for them. Here are some key factors to consider when picking the perfect greenhouse for your needs:
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Small Greenhouse
Choosing the right small greenhouse can make a big difference in how well your plants grow and how easy it is to care for them. Here are some key factors to consider when picking the perfect greenhouse for your needs:
1. Size
Think about the space you have available and what you plan to grow. If you’re limited on space, a compact, multi-tier greenhouse might be ideal for small plants or seed trays. For larger plants or more growing room, a walk-in design offers extra height and flexibility.
2. Durability
If you plan to keep your greenhouse outside, look for one that’s made with weather-resistant materials, like a rustproof steel frame or a reinforced PE or PVC cover. Indoor-only greenhouses don’t need to be as tough, but if you’re moving it around, a sturdy build will last longer.
3. Portability
Some greenhouses are easy to move, with wheels or a lightweight frame, while others are meant to stay put. If you want to bring it indoors during colder months or move it around your garden, choose a portable option with wheels or a design that’s easy to disassemble.
4. Type (Indoor, Outdoor, or Hybrid)
Decide where you’ll be using the greenhouse. Indoor greenhouses are often smaller and more compact, ideal for homes or apartments. Outdoor greenhouses are built to handle the elements and provide more space. Hybrid greenhouses work both indoors and outdoors, giving you flexibility depending on the season or your available space.
5. Frame and Cover Materials
The frame and cover materials affect durability and insulation. Steel or heavy-duty plastic frames are generally strong and long-lasting. For covers, PVC is often clear and offers better light transmission, while PE covers are more durable and UV-resistant. Pick the materials that best suit your climate and the greenhouse’s location.
6. Specific Features
Certain features can make a big difference, depending on your gardening goals. Some features to look for include:
- Grow Lights: If you’re growing indoors or need extra light, greenhouses with built-in LED grow lights will help plants grow faster.
- Ventilation Options: Zippered doors, roll-up windows, or mesh vents keep air flowing, helping prevent mold and overheating.
- Adjustable Shelves: These allow you to customize the layout for different plant sizes and maximize your growing space.
- Temperature and Humidity Controls: Some greenhouses come with thermostats or humidity controls, ideal for sensitive plants that need consistent conditions.
By focusing on these factors, you’ll find a small greenhouse that fits your space, supports your plants, and makes your gardening experience enjoyable and productive!
Benefits Of Using A Small Greenhouse
There are some key benefits around why you would want to use a small greenhouse, here they are:
Extends the Growing Season | With a small greenhouse, you can start planting earlier in the spring and keep growing later into the fall, giving your plants extra time to thrive. |
Protects Plants from Weather Extremes | Greenhouses provide a controlled environment that shields plants from harsh weather, like heavy rain, wind, frost, and intense sun, which helps them grow healthier and stronger. |
Promotes Better Plant Health | The controlled climate inside a greenhouse reduces exposure to pests, diseases, and contaminants, helping plants stay healthier and minimizing the need for pesticides. |
Offers Precise Climate Control | With a small greenhouse, you can adjust temperature, humidity, and ventilation to suit the specific needs of your plants, creating the perfect environment for growth. |
Increases Plant Variety | Greenhouses make it possible to grow plants that might not typically survive in your area, like tropical plants, herbs, or exotic flowers, expanding your gardening options. |
Encourages Faster Growth | The warm, humid environment of a greenhouse accelerates plant growth, helping plants reach maturity faster and produce more fruits or flowers. |
Saves Space in Small Gardens | Small greenhouses come in various compact designs, including tiered shelves, making it easy to grow a variety of plants even in limited spaces like balconies or patios. |
Using a small greenhouse brings these advantages, making it a great addition to any garden, big or small, and allowing you to enjoy gardening throughout the year!
Maintenance Tips for Small Greenhouses
Keeping your small greenhouse in top shape is key to healthy plant growth and a long-lasting setup. Here are some simple maintenance tips to ensure your greenhouse stays clean, secure, and productive:
- Clean the Cover Regularly
Over time, dust, algae, and debris can build up on the greenhouse cover, blocking sunlight. Use a mild soap and water solution to gently scrub the cover every few months, especially before planting seasons, to maintain maximum light transmission. - Manage Humidity Levels
Greenhouses trap moisture, which is great for plants but can lead to mold if it gets too humid. Ventilate your greenhouse regularly by opening windows or doors, especially on warmer days, to keep humidity balanced and prevent fungal growth. - Check for Mold and Pests
Inspect your plants and greenhouse structure weekly for any signs of mold, mildew, or pests. Catching problems early will help prevent them from spreading. If you spot mold, remove affected plants and clean the area with a gentle anti-fungal solution. For pests, consider natural remedies or safe insecticidal soap. - Rotate Plants and Adjust Shelves as Needed
Moving plants around ensures they all get enough light and airflow, reducing the risk of mold or disease. Adjusting shelf heights can also help accommodate plants as they grow, maximizing your space efficiently. - Prepare for Seasonal Changes
As temperatures shift, adjust ventilation and insulation as needed. In cooler months, use insulation materials like bubble wrap to keep warmth in, and as things heat up, increase ventilation to avoid overheating.
Regular maintenance not only keeps your small greenhouse looking great but also ensures it provides the best possible environment for your plants to thrive all year long!
Conclusion
Adding a small greenhouse to your gardening setup is a great way to protect your plants, extend your growing season, and make the most of your space. With options for every need—whether you’re growing indoors, outdoors, or need something versatile—you can find a greenhouse that fits your lifestyle and gardening goals. From budget-friendly options to top performers, each of the greenhouses we’ve reviewed has unique benefits to help you grow healthy, thriving plants.
Remember, with the right maintenance and a few key features, a small greenhouse can transform your gardening experience, bringing your plants year-round growth and protection. Now it’s time to pick the one that’s right for you and get growing!
Here are our favorite accessories to boost any greenhouse: 14 Best Greenhouse Accessories That You Need In 2024 |
FAQs
What is the smallest greenhouse size?
The smallest greenhouses usually start around 2-3 feet in width and depth, with heights of 2-4 feet. These compact models are often called mini or tabletop greenhouses, perfect for small spaces, balconies, or just a few plants.
What is a small greenhouse called?
A small greenhouse is often referred to as a mini greenhouse, tabletop greenhouse, or cloche, depending on its size and style. These greenhouses are designed for limited spaces and are great for seed starting, herbs, or small potted plants.
How warm does a small greenhouse stay in winter?
A small greenhouse can retain some warmth in winter, especially during the day when the sun heats it up. However, nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, so additional insulation or a small heater may be needed to keep temperatures suitable for certain plants in colder climates.
Does a small greenhouse need a foundation?
Most small greenhouses do not require a permanent foundation, especially portable models. However, securing them on a stable, level surface, like concrete, gravel, or garden beds, helps with stability and drainage. Anchoring can be helpful for outdoor greenhouses to protect them from strong winds.
Can you make a small greenhouse?
Yes, making a small greenhouse is very doable! You can create one with simple materials like PVC pipes, wooden frames, or old windows for the frame, and cover it with clear plastic sheeting or polycarbonate panels. DIY greenhouses can be customized to fit any size or space, making them a flexible, budget-friendly option.