Greenhouse kits are an excellent option for homeowners who want their own greenhouse but don’t want to deal with the hassle of building one completely from scratch. There are many on the market, but this list of the best greenhouse kits offers a variety of options that can fit the needs of most homeowners. These options range from affordable small greenhouses to sprawling, permanent structures.
Our top picks
Best walk-in greenhouses – Reviews
Walk-in greenhouses are large enough to hold numerous plants and then some. While some of these greenhouses can be moved, the more expensive higher-end greenhouses are meant to be permanent structures that can last many years. You may need a permit to build some of these, so check with your local zoning authority before making your purchase.
1. Exaco/Hoklartherm Riga German Hobby Greenhouse
The Riga German Hobby Greenhouse line is among the best choices for homeowners who want a dedicated greenhouse without the hassle of building one from scratch. They’re quite large, sturdy, and also visually interesting, in part due to their “onion” shape.
Made for harsh weather. These greenhouses are covered in UV-protected twin-wall polycarbonate glazing at least 8 mm thick, which provides the insulation needed to keep your plants toasty throughout the winter months. Its unique onion shape also helps with winter gardening, as the sloped roof allows snow to slide right off. The doors and windows don’t let out heat either, thanks to their heavy-duty rubber gaskets.
Made to last. It’s held together by thick gauge aluminum and stainless steel for a corrosion-resistant frame and hardware. Overall, the greenhouse is rated to withstand up to 80 mph winds and up to 25 lbs of snow per square foot (PSF); the Riga XL can withstand even more. However, expect to pay a hefty price tag for one.
Product details
- Frame material: 12-gauge aircraft aluminum frame, stainless steel hardware
- Cover material: UV-protected twin-wall polycarbonate glazing (8-10 mm thick on regular models, 16 mm for the XL model)
- Vents: 2 to 5, depending on size
- Shelves: 2 included with the non-XL models
- Wind resistance rating: 80 mph (non-XL), 120 mph (XL)
- Roof load rating: 25 PSF (non-XL), 30 PSF (XL)
- Warranty? 10 years for cover, 15 years for frame
- Special features:
- Window and door gaskets
- Lockable door
- Heat-activated automatic window openers
- Dutch-style front door
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Very sturdy ✓ Well-insulated for winter gardening ✓ Dutch-style door allows for ventilation while still protecting the greenhouse from small animals ✓ Lockable door ✓ Long warranty ✓ UV-resistant ✓ Rust-resistant ✓ Comes in many sizes | ✗ Takes a few days and some construction experience to assemble ✗ Assembly instructions can be a little difficult to follow ✗ Expensive |
Where to buy
2. Veikous Walk-In Greenhouse Kit
The Veikous Walk-In Greenhouse Kit is a much cheaper alternative for beginner gardeners who want something sturdier than plastic sheeting. While it’s not as robust as the Riga greenhouses, it can still hold its own. It’s a decent starter greenhouse.
Sturdy materials. The UV-resistant polycarbonate won’t deteriorate after extended exposure to sunlight, which isn’t the standard among all greenhouses. The aluminum frame is rust-proof and rather sturdy but still light enough not to be too difficult to move if needed. It’s best to follow the recommended reinforcements though, like adding sealant to the panels (the materials needed for this aren’t part of the kit).
Extra features. Like the Riga, it also comes with a lockable door — or two, depending on the model — and adjustable vents.
Product details
- Frame material: Aluminum
- Cover material: UV-resistant polycarbonate panels
- Vents: 2
- Shelves: None
- Wind resistance rating: 30 mph
- Roof load rating: 20 PSF
- Warranty? 30-day warranty
- Special features:
- Lockable door(s)
- Adjustable roof vent
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Light but still durable ✓ Relatively affordable ✓ Relatively easy to assemble ✓ UV-resistant ✓ Rust-resistant ✓ Comes in many sizes ✓ Has a double-door model | ✗ Assembly instructions can be difficult to understand ✗ Doesn’t come with materials needed to make recommended adjustments for stability ✗ Several parts might need adjustmentsShort warranty |
Where to buy
If you want a cheaper greenhouse for winter gardening, consider the Palram Canopia Glory Premium Greenhouse. It’s on the pricier side like the Riga, but not as expensive; plus, it has a more traditional greenhouse look.
Insulated for winter gardening. The UV-protected twin-wall polycarbonate panels are 10 mm thick and hail-resistant, making the Glory greenhouse perfect for winter gardening. The panels are also diffused, which lends some privacy.
Gutters and more galore. The Palram Canopia Glory greenhouse comes with closed gutters, which you can use to collect water for irrigation. It also comes with a bottom door seal brush strip, a plant hanger kit, anchoring kits, and automatic vent openers.
Product details
- Frame material: Extra thick aluminum frame, galvanized steel base
- Cover material: UV-protected, hail-resistant, 10 mm twin-wall polycarbonate panels
- Vents: 1 to 4, depending on size
- Shelves: None
- Wind resistance rating: 62 mph
- Roof load rating: 20 PSF
- Warranty? 10-year limited warranty
- Special features:
- Closed gutter system + 4 gutter heads
- Bottom door seal brush strip
- Automatic vent openers
- Anchoring kits
- Plant hanger kit
- Diffused panels for privacy
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Durable ✓ Well-insulated for winter gardening ✓ Long warrantyRelatively easy to install ✓ UV-resistant ✓ Rust-resistant ✓ Comes with a lot of accessories ✓ Comes in many sizes | ✗ Assembly instructions can be a little hard to follow ✗ Expensive ✗ May need extra sealing |
Where to buy
4. Palram Canopia Hybrid Walk-In Greenhouse
The Canopia Hybrid Walk-In greenhouse is a much more affordable option from Palram. It’s more similar to the Veikous Walk-In greenhouse than its Glory cousin, making it another decent option for homeowners who want a starter greenhouse.
Two panel types. The Canopia Hybrid greenhouse gets its name from the two polycarbonate panel types it has. The roof is made of unbreakable twin-wall panels that protect from strong sunlight, while the rest of the greenhouse is made of crystal-clear polycarbonate that allows for over 90% light transmission. As a bonus, these panels won’t discolor over time.
Also comes with gutters. Like its Glory cousin, the Palram Canopia Hybrid Walk-In greenhouse also has a built-in gutter system that can collect rainwater. It has an adjustable vent window, too, but it’s not automatic.
Product details
- Frame material: Powder-coated aluminum frame, galvanized steel base
- Cover material: Twin-wall polycarbonate panel roof, crystal-clear polycarbonate panels everywhere else
- Vents: 1 to 2, depending on size
- Shelves: None
- Wind resistance rating: 56 MPH
- Roof load rating: 15 PSF
- Warranty? 5-year limited warranty
- Special features:
- Right or left-handed door
- Adjustable vent window
- Magnetic door catch
- Lockable door
- Built-in gutter system
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Durable ✓ Relatively affordable ✓ Lockable door ✓ UV-resistant ✓ Rust-resistant ✓ Comes in many sizes | ✗ Assembly instructions are hard to follow ✗ Needs additional sealing ✗ Can be difficult to assemble |
Where to buy
5. Grezone Walk-in Greenhouse
Unlike the other walk-in greenhouses on our list, the Grezone Walk-In Greenhouse isn’t made with polycarbonate panels. It comes with a polyethylene sheet cover, which is cheaper than polycarbonate. This also makes it very affordable, especially compared to the other walk-in greenhouses on our list.
UV-protected PE. The polyethylene (PE) cover is reinforced and is UV-resistant. There are six window vents all around the cover, which allows for good airflow. The cover is also odorless, unlike other PE covers.
Product details
- Frame material: Powder-coated steel
- Cover material: Polyethylene
- Vents: 6
- Shelves: None
- Wind resistance rating: 0 mph
- Roof load rating: 0 PSF
- Warranty? None
- Special features:
- Storm bars
- Screen door
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Very affordable compared to other walk-in greenhouses ✓ Relatively easy to assemble ✓ Lots of vents ✓ UV-resistant ✓ Rust-resistant | ✗ Less sturdy than polycarbonate greenhouses ✗ Won’t hold up to high winds or snow ✗ Zippers can fail |
Where to buy
Best small greenhouse kits – Reviews
In contrast to walk-in greenhouses, these greenhouses are on the smaller side. They’re better for overwintering or even indoor use. These greenhouses are typically cold-frame ones.
1. ShelterLogic GrowIT 4-Tier Mini Grow House
The ShelterLogic GrowIT 4-Tier Mini Grow House is first up on our list of small greenhouse kits. Being a vertical greenhouse, it gives homeowners space to grow plants even on the smallest of balconies, patios, or decks. You can even use it indoors.
Great for humidity. The thick, clear PVC cover is great at maintaining the humidity level inside the greenhouse. It also helps reduce harmful UV rays getting in while still allowing light to come through.
Adjustable shelves. Although it comes with 4 wire mesh shelves, you can easily remove them to make room for taller plants.
Product details
- Frame material: Powder-coated steel
- Cover material: Clear PVC
- Vents: 1
- Shelves: 4
- Warranty? 90-day limited warranty
- Special features:
- Adjustable shelves
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Affordable ✓ Easy to assemble ✓ Customizable shelves ✓ Vertical ✓ Rust-resistant ✓ Comes in other configurations | ✗ The frame doesn’t snap together, so it can come apart during assembly or when you move it ✗ Won’t stand up to wind or snow ✗ Has an odor |
Where to buy
2. Outsunny Portable Mini Greenhouse
Unlike the ShelterLogic greenhouse, this portable mini greenhouse from Outsunny is horizontal. It’s a decent option for homeowners with small yards who want a hothouse to keep their plants warmer throughout the colder months.
Overlong polyethylene cover. The two-layer PE layer is tear-resistant and helps prevent UV rays from damaging your plants. It’s much longer than the frame, so homeowners have the option to make the greenhouse sturdier. You can bury the overhang in the soil to seal it further.
Product details
- Frame material: Powder-coated steel frame
- Cover material: Two-layer polyethylene
- Vents: 3
- Shelves: None
- Warranty? 1-year limited warranty
- Special features:
- Overlong cover for better sealing and stability
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Affordable ✓ Easy to assemble ✓ Overlong cover can be buried for extra stability ✓ Doors offer easy access to plants ✓ Rust-resistant | ✗ Won’t last against wind unless reinforced or secured ✗ Zippers can fail |
Where to buy
3. Porayhut Pop-Up Greenhouse Tent
Do you need a temporary greenhouse that’s quick to set up? Then the Porayhut Pop-Up Greenhouse Tent may be up your alley. Unlike the two greenhouse kits above it, this greenhouse is more like a tent than a more permanent structure for use throughout the year.
Easy to carry. Made with a polyethylene plastic cover and a steel wire frame, this portable greenhouse is easy to set up, put away, and carry around. If you want to use it for longer, you can tie it down with the included stakes and wind ropes.
Product details
- Frame material: Steel wire frame
- Cover material: Double-layer PE mesh
- Vents: 1 to 2, depending on model
- Shelves: None
- Warranty? None
- Special features:
- Carry bag
- Mesh windows
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Affordable ✓ Easy to assemble ✓ UV-resistant ✓ Comes in many sizes ✓ Can be used for non-gardening purposes | ✗ Will need extra reinforcement to make it more wind-proof ✗ Can trap heat a little too well ✗ Better for temporary use |
Where to buy
4. Worth Garden 4-Tier Mini Greenhouse
The Worth Garden 4-Tier Mini Greenhouse is quite similar to the ShelterLogic greenhouse on this list, but it doesn’t have adjustable shelves. Still, it’s a decent option for homeowners with small spaces who are looking for an alternative.
Choose your cover. You can get this greenhouse with a clear PVC cover or a UV-protected green PE one. They both help retain heat, but the green PE greenhouse is slightly more expensive than the PVC.
Heavy-duty steel. Each wire mesh steel shelf can carry up to 23.4 lbs of weight. They’ll be able to handle your seed trays and potted plants with ease.
Product details
- Frame material: Heavy-duty steel
- Cover material: Clear PVC or UV-protected green polyethylene
- Vents: 1
- Shelves: 4
- Warranty? 3-year warranty
- Special features: None
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Affordable ✓ Easy to assemble ✓ PE cover is UV-protected ✓ Lightweight and can be moved easily | ✗ Won’t hold up against wind ✗ Shelves are rather close together ✗ Shelf grates are a little large |
Where to buy
5. Quictent Galvanized Raised Garden Bed with Cover
This last product on our list is a little different than the others. As its name suggests, the Quictent Galvanized Raised Garden Bed with Cover is a combination of a garden bed and a mini greenhouse. You can use them together or separately; you can even use them together as a compost bin.
Two covers to choose from. This Quincent greenhouse comes with either a clear PVC or green polyethylene cover. The two vents on both covers help with ventilation and temperature control.
Galvanized. The frame and raised garden bed are both made from galvanized steel. Additionally, the garden bed is painted with an eco-friendly galvanized paint.
Product details
- Frame material: Galvanized steel
- Cover material: Clear PVC or green polyethylene
- Vents: 2
- Shelves: None
- Warranty? 2 years for the greenhouse cover, 5 years for the garden bed, lifetime replacement for frame connectors
- Special features:
- Detachable raised garden bed
- Comes with gloves
Pros and cons
| What we liked | What we didn’t like |
| ✓ Affordable ✓ Sturdy ✓ Multi-purpose ✓ Can be detached | ✗ Zippers can fail ✗ Rather short, will not fit tall plants |
Where to buy
Buyer’s guide to greenhouse kits
Here are some factors you can keep in mind to help you figure out which greenhouse kit is right for you.
Size
One of the biggest factors is size; no pun intended. Size can affect the greenhouse in many ways, including the materials used and the sturdiness. Most importantly, it will affect how many plants you can put inside.
If you’re a seasoned grower — especially one with plants that have special needs — then you should consider a bigger greenhouse. Beginner gardeners may want to go with a smaller starter greenhouse to save money.
Materials
A greenhouse’s materials strongly impact its durability and strength. Polycarbonate panels tend to be stronger than either polyethylene or PVC covers. While all the frames of the greenhouses on this list are made of some form of metal, greenhouse frames can also be made with plastic or wood, which have their own sets of pros and cons.
The materials used also influence how good a greenhouse’s insulation is. This can separate true greenhouses from season extenders; the former ensures the growing season lasts year-round.
Some materials are also more UV-resistant and corrosion-resistant than others, which will affect a greenhouse’s lifespan.
Extra features
Some greenhouses are bundled with additional goodies or quality-of-life features, like shelves and gutter systems. While some of these can be added later on, you may want to save yourself the hassle by getting them as you assemble your greenhouse.
Cost
Of course, we can’t ignore budgets. The greenhouse of your dreams might be too expensive, so you’ll need to look for an alternative that doesn’t have all the bells and whistles but is more affordable. Just remember that a higher price tag often accompanies high-quality greenhouses.
FAQ about greenhouse kits
1. How do you build a greenhouse DIY?
Building a greenhouse — either completely from scratch or using a greenhouse kit — requires some construction knowledge and a fair bit of time. That is, unless you’re making a small greenhouse like the ones on our list. You can read more about how to build a greenhouse with our step-by-step DIY guide.
2. How do you heat a greenhouse for winter gardening?
The main way to heat a greenhouse for the winter is to install a heater of some sort. Our list of the best greenhouse heaters on the market can help you choose the best one for your greenhouse.
3. How much does a greenhouse cost?
On average, a professionally built greenhouse costs $11,000. However, the cost of a greenhouse can range between $2,000 and $25,000.
The greenhouse kits on our list vary from a little under $50 to over $11,000. The main factors in pricing are the size of the greenhouse and the materials used.
Need help with gardening?
Building a greenhouse — even from a kit — can take up a good chunk of your time. Coupled with all the other things in your life, you may not have time to build yourself a greenhouse and continue caring for your plants. If this sounds like you, consider hiring a professional gardener near you through Lawn Love who can shower your garden with the love and care it needs.
Main Photo Credit: Irina Stevenson / Canva Pro / License
