Creating a greenhouse on a budget doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a small balcony, a DIY greenhouse can help you extend your growing season, keep plants safe from the elements, and enjoy homegrown produce all year round. Best of all, these greenhouses are cheap and easy to build, with materials you may already have at home.
So, let’s dive into these 21 affordable DIY greenhouse ideas that will help you get your garden thriving!
1. PVC Pipe Greenhouse: Simple, Sturdy, and Affordable
One of the easiest and most affordable ways to build a greenhouse is with PVC pipes. They’re lightweight, durable, and easy to work with. A PVC pipe greenhouse can be assembled in no time and is perfect for those just starting out with gardening.
Start by creating a frame using PVC pipes that can be easily bent into arches. These arches form the base structure, and you can add PVC crossbars for stability. Once the frame is in place, cover it with clear plastic sheeting to let sunlight through while protecting your plants from harsh weather conditions.
This project is especially great for beginners, as it’s easy to modify the size based on your available space. Plus, the materials are affordable, and the entire process can be done with minimal tools. For added durability, consider anchoring your PVC greenhouse to the ground using stakes or sandbags to prevent it from blowing away in strong winds.
2. Mini Greenhouse from Old Windows: Repurpose and Reuse
Repurposing old windows for a DIY greenhouse is not only budget-friendly but also environmentally sustainable. This greenhouse design can be both charming and functional, perfect for those who love upcycling materials.
To build your own, start by collecting old windows from thrift stores, garage sales, or even construction sites (with permission). Create a simple frame using wood or scrap lumber, and then attach the windows to form the walls of your greenhouse. The beauty of this greenhouse is that the windows already have built-in glass, allowing sunlight to filter through while providing protection against the elements.
A mini greenhouse made from old windows is ideal for smaller gardens, balconies, or urban spaces. You’ll love how it adds a vintage touch to your outdoor space while also providing a safe, warm environment for your plants.
3. Wooden Pallet Greenhouse: Simple and Rustic
Wooden pallets are an excellent material for building a simple and rustic greenhouse. If you’re handy with basic tools, you can easily transform pallets into a functional structure for your plants. The great thing about wooden pallets is that they are often free or very inexpensive, especially if you can find used ones.
To build your greenhouse, stack the pallets vertically to form walls and secure them together with nails or screws. Add a plastic cover or clear plastic sheets on top to allow sunlight in while protecting your plants. You can also build a small roof using additional pallet slats or corrugated plastic.
This greenhouse is perfect for gardeners on a tight budget who want to create a simple, rustic structure without spending a lot of money. It’s also very eco-friendly since you’re reusing materials that would otherwise end up in the trash.
4. Plastic Bottle Greenhouse: Recycle and Grow
If you’re looking for a creative way to recycle plastic bottles and create a greenhouse, look no further than this idea. Building a greenhouse with plastic bottles is an excellent solution for small-scale gardening projects and is an affordable way to protect plants from the cold.
To get started, save up plastic bottles and cut them in half. Arrange them vertically along a wooden or metal frame, using the open side to form walls. You can secure the bottles together with zip ties or wire, creating a sturdy, insulated wall that will keep your plants warm and protected.
This project works well for individual plants or small plants like herbs, and it’s perfect for gardeners in urban areas with limited space. It’s also a fun, hands-on project for those who love DIY and sustainability!
5. A-Frame Greenhouse with Clear Plastic: Simple and Efficient
If you want a greenhouse that’s both easy to build and space-efficient, the A-frame greenhouse design is a fantastic option. This style features a sloped roof, which allows rainwater to run off easily, and it’s simple to assemble with basic materials.
To build an A-frame greenhouse, start by creating a wooden or PVC frame in an A-shape. Cover it with clear plastic sheeting, which will let sunlight through while keeping the temperature inside regulated. You can also use plastic sheeting with UV protection for added durability and better plant growth.
This type of greenhouse is perfect for small backyards or gardens and is ideal for gardeners who need a compact solution that doesn’t take up too much space.
6. Greenhouse Made from a Pop-up Tent: Portable and Versatile
Not all greenhouses need to be permanent structures. If you’re looking for a more portable option, a pop-up tent greenhouse is a quick and affordable solution. Pop-up tents are typically used for outdoor events, but they can easily be repurposed as temporary greenhouses.
Simply set up the pop-up tent in a sunny location, and line the inside with shelving or plant trays. You can keep the tent open on warm days and close it up during chilly evenings or nights. The breathable fabric will protect your plants from strong winds and light frost, but they still get plenty of light.
This greenhouse is especially ideal for gardeners who want a portable solution that can be moved around based on the weather or the growing season. It’s also great for urban gardeners with limited space who may need to pack up their greenhouse during the colder months.
7. Cattle Panel Hoop House: Durable and Spacious
A cattle panel hoop house is an excellent choice for gardeners who want a larger greenhouse with plenty of space for growing vegetables and plants. Cattle panels are strong, flexible, and inexpensive, making them a fantastic material for DIY projects.
Start by creating a frame using sturdy wooden posts or metal pipes, then bend the cattle panels into arches. Attach the panels to the frame, securing them with zip ties or wire. Once the structure is up, cover it with clear plastic to create a weatherproof greenhouse.
This type of greenhouse is ideal for gardeners who want to grow more substantial crops like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. It provides a lot of vertical space, making it easier to walk inside and tend to your plants.
8. Recycled Glass Bottle Greenhouse: Eco-Friendly and Beautiful
For an eco-conscious gardener, creating a greenhouse with recycled glass bottles is a beautiful and sustainable choice. This project gives new life to old glass bottles while creating a charming and functional space for your plants.
To build a recycled glass bottle greenhouse, start by collecting empty glass bottles and arranging them to form the walls of your structure. You can attach the bottles to a wooden frame, using mortar or a similar adhesive to hold them in place. Add a roof using transparent plastic sheeting to let sunlight in.
This greenhouse has a unique look and is perfect for those who want to combine gardening with creativity and sustainability. It also provides excellent insulation for your plants, keeping them warm during colder weather.
9. Greenhouse with Old Shower Curtain: Budget-Friendly and Quick
An old shower curtain can make a great cover for a DIY greenhouse, especially if you’re working with a limited budget. This simple project can be completed in a weekend, and the result is a functional greenhouse that offers protection for your plants.
Start by building a simple frame using wood or PVC pipes, then drape the old shower curtain over it. The curtain will provide protection from the rain and wind while still allowing sunlight to reach your plants. If you want to add more ventilation, you can create small openings or flaps with the curtain.
This DIY greenhouse is a perfect choice for gardeners who want something quick, easy, and inexpensive. It’s also an excellent way to reuse household items that would otherwise be thrown away.
10. Cold Frame Greenhouse: Simple and Efficient
A cold frame greenhouse is a low-cost option for extending your growing season, especially during the early spring and late fall months. It’s essentially a mini-greenhouse that works well for protecting your plants from frost and freezing temperatures.
To build a cold frame, use a wooden box with a clear lid (which can be made from old windows, plastic sheets, or glass). The box acts as the base, and the lid allows sunlight to enter while keeping heat trapped inside. Cold frames can be placed directly on the ground or raised to a convenient height for easy access.
Cold frames are ideal for gardeners who want to start seedlings early or protect tender plants during colder months. They’re simple to build, inexpensive, and can be placed in virtually any garden.
11. Greenhouse Made from Old Doors: Repurpose and Create
Old doors are another fantastic material for building a DIY greenhouse. Not only does this design allow you to recycle materials, but it also results in a functional and stylish greenhouse that will add charm to your garden.
To create a greenhouse with old doors, start by assembling the doors into a rectangular or square frame. Attach the doors vertically, and secure them with screws or nails. Once the structure is assembled, add clear plastic sheeting or glass panels for the roof and walls.
This greenhouse design works well in smaller spaces and is a great way to recycle items that would otherwise go to waste. It also gives your garden a rustic, vintage feel.
12. Reclaimed Wood Greenhouse: Rustic and Durable
If you have access to reclaimed wood, this is an ideal material for building a sturdy, rustic greenhouse. Using recycled wood adds a charming touch to your garden while keeping your greenhouse functional and cost-effective.
To create a greenhouse with reclaimed wood, start by gathering wooden planks from old furniture, fences, or pallets. Use these planks to create a frame and walls for the structure. For the roof, you can use clear plastic sheeting or glass panels, which will allow sunlight to enter while keeping your plants protected.
This greenhouse is both beautiful and practical, providing insulation and shelter for your plants during colder months. It’s perfect for gardeners who enjoy working with wood and want to add a rustic aesthetic to their backyard.
13. Greenhouse with Salvaged Fence Panels: A Practical Option
Using old fence panels to build a DIY greenhouse is a great way to repurpose materials while creating a functional structure for your plants. Fence panels are sturdy and weather-resistant, making them an excellent choice for building a greenhouse.
Start by disassembling the old fence panels and cutting them to the appropriate size. Arrange them to form the walls of your greenhouse, and use nails or screws to secure them together. Add a roof using clear plastic sheeting, polycarbonate panels, or even corrugated metal for extra durability.
This greenhouse design is perfect for gardeners who have access to discarded fence panels and want to create a sturdy, long-lasting structure. It’s also a great way to add a little bit of privacy to your outdoor garden space.
14. Gutter Greenhouse: Vertical Gardening at Its Best
A gutter greenhouse is a unique and space-saving design that uses old gutters to create vertical plant beds. It’s perfect for gardeners with limited space who want to maximize their growing potential, especially for herbs, flowers, or small vegetables.
To build a gutter greenhouse, start by attaching several gutters horizontally to a wall or fence, making sure they are securely fastened. Fill each gutter with soil or potting mix, and plant your chosen crops. For the greenhouse cover, use clear plastic sheeting or acrylic panels to trap heat and moisture inside.
This greenhouse is excellent for urban gardeners or those with limited outdoor space. It allows you to grow plants vertically, saving space while providing your plants with the warmth and protection they need to thrive.
15. Fabric & PVC Frame Greenhouse: Light and Portable
If you need a greenhouse that’s portable and lightweight, a fabric and PVC frame greenhouse is a fantastic choice. This option is easy to set up, move, and take down, making it ideal for gardeners who need flexibility in their outdoor space.
To create this greenhouse, build a simple PVC frame and cover it with durable fabric or polyethylene plastic. Make sure the fabric is breathable enough to let sunlight in but sturdy enough to protect your plants from the elements. For added convenience, you can even add zippers or Velcro for easy access to your plants.
This greenhouse is great for temporary or seasonal use and is perfect for gardeners who want a quick solution to protect their plants from frost or extreme temperatures. Plus, it’s very affordable and doesn’t require a lot of tools to put together.
16. Greenhouse Made from Old Doors: Reuse and Recycle
If you have old doors lying around, consider turning them into a charming and functional greenhouse. This project is a great way to reuse materials you already have, and the result will be a beautifully rustic greenhouse that’s perfect for any garden.
Start by arranging the doors vertically to form the frame of your greenhouse. You can use hinges to attach them and create doorways for easy access. For the roof, consider using clear plastic sheeting or salvaged glass panels to allow sunlight to penetrate the structure.
This greenhouse design is ideal for those with a few old doors to spare and is perfect for creating a stylish, rustic garden retreat. It’s a simple, affordable, and eco-friendly project that will add character to your backyard.
17. Recycled Pallet & Plastic Greenhouse: Sustainable and Functional
Combining recycled pallets with plastic sheeting is a fantastic way to create a sustainable and budget-friendly greenhouse. The pallets serve as the base for your structure, while the plastic sheeting provides the perfect cover to keep your plants warm and protected.
To build this greenhouse, start by stacking pallets to form walls or a base structure. Once the pallets are secured in place, drape clear plastic over the top to create a weatherproof cover. You can also use PVC pipes or other materials to reinforce the structure if needed.
This greenhouse is great for small gardens or as a starter greenhouse for beginners. It’s an affordable and eco-conscious project that allows you to repurpose materials you may already have, while creating a functional space for your plants.
18. Portable Greenhouse with Shelving: Easy to Move and Organize
For gardeners who need mobility and organization, a portable greenhouse with built-in shelving is an ideal solution. This design combines a small greenhouse with shelves for easy access to your plants and efficient use of space.
To create this greenhouse, start with a lightweight frame made from PVC pipes or metal. Attach several shelves inside to organize your plants, and cover the structure with clear plastic sheeting to protect your plants. This design works well for small-scale gardening, such as growing herbs, flowers, or seedlings.
A portable greenhouse with shelving is perfect for gardeners with limited space who want to grow multiple types of plants in an organized and easy-to-access way. It’s affordable, easy to move, and provides great protection for your plants.
19. Pallet & Plastic Bottle Greenhouse: Affordable and Eco-Friendly
This DIY greenhouse design uses a combination of wooden pallets and recycled plastic bottles to create a simple, eco-friendly structure for your plants. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to reduce waste while building a functional greenhouse.
To get started, stack wooden pallets to form the walls of your greenhouse. Then, cut plastic bottles in half and use them as transparent panels for the walls. Secure the bottles to the pallet structure using wire or nails. For the roof, use plastic sheeting to trap heat and moisture inside.
This greenhouse is a great way to recycle materials and create a charming garden space. It’s an affordable and sustainable option that can be built with materials you likely already have around the house.
20. DIY Greenhouse from an Old Carport: Big and Spacious
If you have an old carport or unused shed in your backyard, consider converting it into a large, functional greenhouse. This design is perfect for gardeners who need a bigger space to grow their plants or for those looking to start a mini farm at home.
To turn your carport into a greenhouse, start by removing any old, unnecessary items inside. Then, cover the entire structure with clear plastic sheeting or polycarbonate panels to create a weatherproof cover. You can also add shelving or raised beds inside to organize your plants.
This greenhouse is ideal for those who have the space for a larger structure and want a more permanent solution to grow their plants year-round. It’s a budget-friendly way to repurpose an existing structure and create a spacious garden area.
21. Simple Hoop House: A Quick and Budget-Friendly Build
A hoop house is one of the most affordable and simple DIY greenhouse designs, making it a popular choice for gardeners on a budget. This greenhouse features a curved structure made of flexible hoops and a plastic cover to protect your plants.
To build a hoop house, create a frame using PVC pipes or metal hoops, and secure them in place using stakes or heavy-duty wire. Cover the frame with clear plastic sheeting to create a weatherproof structure. This design can be made in various sizes, depending on the space available.
A hoop house is perfect for those who need a quick, low-cost solution to protect their plants during the colder months. It’s a straightforward project that can be completed in a weekend, and it’s ideal for small to medium-sized gardens.
Conclusion: Start Building Your Dream Greenhouse Today!
There you have it—21 DIY greenhouse ideas that are cheap, easy, and perfect for gardeners of all levels. Whether you’re working with limited space, a tight budget, or just want to repurpose materials you already have, there’s an idea here that will help you create the perfect greenhouse for your needs.
A DIY greenhouse not only provides a protective space for your plants but also adds a beautiful and functional touch to your garden. So, pick your favorite design and start building today—your garden (and your plants) will thank you! Happy gardening!
