Maya Ellison
Building a small greenhouse from plastic is a simple, budget-friendly project that can be done in a variety of ways. The main purpose of a greenhouse is to create an enclosed space that is heated and lit by the sun, so it's important to use materials that allow sunlight to pass through. Common materials used include PVC pipes, plastic sheeting, and plastic cups. When building a small greenhouse, it's important to consider factors such as ventilation, utility access, and storage. Additionally, one should ensure that the plastic used is UV-rated to ensure longevity. Building a small greenhouse from plastic provides a great opportunity to get creative and customize the structure to one's specific needs and space constraints.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Plastic sheeting, PVC pipe, old window, tomato cages, cardboard egg carton, plastic cups, plastic bags, plastic lids, plastic plant pots, saucers, plastic stacking crates, snap clamps, UV-rated plastic |
| Cost | Relatively budget-friendly, inexpensive |
| Ventilation | Adequate ventilation is important; leave sides open or install fans or a full-on ventilation system |
| Size | Small, mini, or tiny |
| Purpose | Starting seeds, helping herbs to overwinter, germinating seeds, growing flowers from seeds, protecting seedlings |
| Location | Balcony, porch, backyard, inside |
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What You'll Learn
Using plastic sheeting
Building a small greenhouse with plastic sheeting is a budget-friendly and efficient way to provide your plants with a thriving space. To get started, you'll need to select a suitable location that receives ample sunlight throughout the day. South-facing locations are ideal, ensuring no large obstructions like trees or buildings that could cast shade. It's also important to consider accessibility to water and electricity sources for added convenience.
When it comes to materials, using plastic sheeting for your greenhouse comes with several advantages. Plastic sheeting is affordable and can provide cover for many years. Look for UV-stabilized plastic sheeting made of 6 mil or thicker polyethylene plastic. This type of plastic is designed to hold up under intense sunlight and provide long-lasting protection for your plants. Regular plastic sheeting from hardware stores may be cheaper, but it lacks the UV stabilizers needed to withstand prolonged sun exposure.
Before installing the plastic sheeting, ensure you have the necessary tools on hand. Ladders, bolt cutters or a hacksaw, push brooms, and even tennis balls can all be useful during the installation process. It's also important to choose a day with low wind speeds to avoid any installation challenges. Begin by unrolling the plastic film lengthwise along the structure, taking care to identify the correct side that should face outwards.
To improve the insulation of your greenhouse, seal any gaps or openings to prevent heat escape. Use duct tape or adhesive to secure the edges of the plastic sheeting to the frame, and fill any small holes or openings. Proper insulation will help maintain a stable temperature and protect your plants from sudden fluctuations.
With the structure complete, you can set up the interior with shelves, benches, or tables to accommodate your plants. Consider using containers or raised beds to optimize space and make plant care more manageable. Install a watering system or ensure easy access to water for efficient irrigation. Regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the long-term success of your small plastic greenhouse.
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Plastic shelving units
Building a small greenhouse with plastic shelving units is a simple and budget-friendly project. It is a great way to create a vertical garden with limited space. You can use plastic shelving units that you may already have or purchase ready-made metal shelving units. Metal or plastic-coated shelving units are ideal as they are more durable in outdoor weather conditions.
There are plenty of inexpensive zip-up plastic covers available in all shapes and sizes that can fit over these handy storage units. Some come with built-in vents, which are ideal for regulating temperature and preventing condensation. You can also simply unzip the door section and peg it open when needed.
When setting up your shelving unit, it is important to consider access to water and electricity. You may want to set up a misting system or ensure that a hose can reach your plants. You can also install a fan or a full-on ventilation system to regulate circulation.
To make the most of your space, you can build your own shelves along the length of your greenhouse to hold seedlings and plant starts. You can also add a sturdy metal shelf for larger pots that will be there year-round. To keep costs down, you can fill the space with water barrels to keep temperatures stable.
Shelving creates a useful storage space for seeds, tools, and pots, giving extra growing space. You can also use the undersides of the shelves for storing your pots and tools. Before purchasing or building shelves, it is important to take measurements and plan the placement of the shelves to make the best use of your space.
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Plastic cups
To build a small greenhouse using plastic cups, first, write a label for the type of seeds you're growing on a small piece of paper. Then, use a piece of tape to adhere the label to one of the cups. Fill the labelled cup three-quarters of the way up with seed starting mix or clean potting soil. Make a half-inch hole in the middle of the soil, place your seeds inside, and cover them with more soil, just below the edge of the cup. Water the soil thoroughly, but not so much that water pools at the bottom of the cup.
Place the second cup on top of the first cup and use tape to connect the two cups, like a hinge. Place the cups in a sunny spot and wait. Within a week, your seeds should begin to sprout and grow. The cups will contain the moisture, creating a greenhouse-like environment. You won't need to water the seeds again unless the soil feels dry to the touch.
Once the plant has grown to touch the top of the second cup, remove it and reuse it for another greenhouse. You can then either let your plant continue growing in the remaining cup or move it outside to your garden.
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Plastic boxes
When using plastic boxes, it's important to monitor moisture levels to prevent issues like damping-off or drying out among young plants. You can regulate moisture by ensuring proper ventilation, either by leaving the sides open or creating vents in the plastic. This will also help maintain adequate airflow, preventing your plants from wilting due to insufficient air circulation.
To enhance the greenhouse effect, you can place plastic cups or inexpensive plastic pint glasses upside down over your plant pots and saucers. This setup will help retain heat and moisture, creating a stable environment for your plants' roots and leaves to thrive. Make sure to choose plant pots or saucers with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Another option for using plastic boxes is to create a basic box frame structure. You can construct the frame from timber battens, carefully measuring and cutting the side lengths before joining the corners with metal right-angle brackets. Then, fill in the sides with polycarbonate sheets cut to size and tacked in place. This type of small glasshouse provides ample options for choosing what to plant.
Building a small greenhouse with plastic boxes is a straightforward and cost-effective way to create a controlled environment for your plants, especially in limited spaces. With proper ventilation and moisture management, your plastic box greenhouse will provide a conducive environment for your plants to flourish.
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Plastic and PVC
A DIY greenhouse made of PVC and plastic is a cost-effective way to grow plants through the winter. The clear plastic walls allow sunlight to pass through and trap heat inside, creating a warm environment for plants.
Materials
- PVC pipes (varying sizes)
- Plastic sheets or plastic wrap
- Snap clamps or cable zip ties
- Glue
- Utility knife
- Packing tape
- Vinyl and plastic floorboard moulding
- Foam pipe insulation
- Self-tapping screws
- Bubble wrap and stretch film (optional)
Steps
- Measure and cut the PVC pipes to the desired length.
- Assemble the PVC pipes to create the frame of the greenhouse.
- Secure the joints with glue.
- Cut a piece of plastic to cover the frame.
- Use snap clamps or cable zip ties to secure the plastic to the PVC frame.
- For the door, cut the plastic along the door seams and use packing tape to hold it to the PVC door frame.
- To seal gaps around the door, use vinyl and plastic floorboard moulding and foam pipe insulation. Attach these with self-tapping screws.
- (Optional) For added insulation, use bubble wrap and stretch film on the outside of the plastic.
PVC and plastic are flexible and cost-effective materials for building a small greenhouse. With these materials and a bit of creativity, you can create a functional and warm environment for your plants.
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Frequently asked questions
Building a small plastic greenhouse is a relatively inexpensive way to get early season protection for your plants without breaking the bank.
You will need PVC pipes, plastic sheeting, and snap clamps to secure the plastic to the PVC.
It is important to get UV-rated plastic so it will hold up over the long term.
You can use snap clamps to secure the plastic to the PVC. Wrap the snap clamp around the PVC and clamp your plastic to the pipe.
Ensure you build your greenhouse in an area that has access to water and electricity. You will also need to think about irrigation and ventilation.
