Simple DIY greenhouse hacks that cost next to nothing and work in the smallest of spaces
Whether you’re starting seeds in winter, propagating or have indoor plants that need extra humidity, a greenhouse is the best solution. You don’t have to buy a purpose-built one, though – there are plenty of DIY solutions that cost a lot less and are even free if you have these items lying around at home.
So skip the fancy greenhouses and try one of these solutions, which range from $0 to $50. They’re not only cheap, they also reuse items you’d otherwise throw out and are easily adaptable to small spaces.
Once all the fruit has been eaten save these punnets to start some seeds in. iStockphoto
Plastic bag: $0
Perhaps the easiest of all greenhouse hacks is simply using a plastic bag. Clear or translucent ones are probably better for letting light in, but the type of plastic bag doesn’t matter as gardeners have been seen using the plastic bags you put fruit in at the supermarket, as well as snap lock bags.
For bags without handles and seals, simply pop it over the top of the plant and either partially seal it with tape or pegs, or place the ends under the pot or seed tray to hold it down to create the greenhouse effect.
A DIY greenhouse can be as simple as putting a plastic bag over your seedlings. iStockphoto
If using snap lock bags you can place a small pot inside and then seal along the top, leaving a small gap for ventilation.
Berry punnet: $0
Instead of tossing your fruit punnets in the recycling bin, you can use them as seed starting greenhouses. It’s brilliant because the lid opens and closes easily, and it already has drainage and ventilation holes.
Just add some potting mix to the bottom half and then add your seeds, put the lid back on and leave in a sunny or warm spot.
Plastic bottles: $0
There are a few ways you can use plastic bottles for a greenhouse, but the most popular is to use a 2L milk bottle to start seeds early.
There are so many ways to use empty plastic bottles in the garden. In addition to mini greenhouses you can also use them upside down for watering or as small plant pots. iStockphoto
All you need to do is cut into the bottle half the way down and then cut around all sides except for the side with the handle – this allows you to lift the top half like a lid so you can fill the bottom with potting mix and then add your seeds. Once they’re in you can tape the cut halves back together. Leave the bottle without the lid for some ventilation and so you can see your seed progress.
You can do the same with a soft drink bottle except you can cut all the way around and then squish the top into the bottom so you don’t have to use sticky tape. Bottles with the bottom cut off can also be placed on seedlings in pots or a garden bed.
Display shoe boxes: From $7 each
Loved by shoe collectors for displaying their prized possessions, these boxes make great greenhouses. They are easy to stack and store on shelves, and often have a handy flap at the front to remove pots or allow for airflow. Indoor plant owners love this one in particular because you can still see the gorgeous plants inside.
These boxes are perfect for indoor plants; just add a hygrometer to measure humidity and grow lights. Tiktok/@britnessplant
Storage tub: Under $10
If you don’t have one of these spare you can find them at department and hardware stores for just a few dollars, or more if you want a larger size. It’s a hack used by gardener Phil Dudman to start his spring seeds early.
Dudman loves the storage box greenhouse hack because it’s adaptable to the conditions. For example, if it gets too hot in the box you can move or take off the lid to let some air in. You could drill holes for drainage or air but since Dudman uses the boxes for storage between seasons he doesn’t do this himself.
Storage drawers: Under $47
This is one you might have sitting in the garage or in a room you plan to declutter. These drawers make a wonderful greenhouse because the plastic allows light and heat to reach the seedlings you pop inside.
The drawers can also be opened slightly for ventilation and drainage can be added by drilling holes in the plastic.
This is a handy way to separate groups of seedlings so that you can get the water needs for each right. TikTok/@kennedysanchez97
Tips for DIY greenhouses
No matter which DIY greenhouse option you choose, there are a few things you need to get right for it to provide the warmth needed and keep your plants healthy.
Pop the greenhouse in a spot that gets a good amount of sunlight, but keep an eye on it so that it doesn’t get too hot.
Make sure there is some ventilation as plants need oxygen to grow and airflow to prevent mould growth.
If you’re watering your plants in the container make sure there is some drainage, so if there aren’t hole already drill or poke a few. Even if you water the plants outside the box and leave them to drain before putting them back, some sort of hole can also be useful for nay lingering moisture and condensation that develops.
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