The 7 Best Greenhouse Kits – [2021 Reviews]

Grow a wider variety of plants year-round, we examine this year's top greenhouse kits

Our Editors independently research, test, and rate what we feel are the best products. We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases.

Choosing the best greenhouse kit for you can be a exciting, but difficult process. The satisfaction of being able to see your plants grow and blossom is very satisfying.

There are quite a few greenhouse kits to consider, each offering a variety of features and uses.

To help you narrow down what you need know to get started, we have done the research so you don’t have to!

Best Greenhouse Kits

 Quictent Portable GreenhouseGiantex Wood Frame GreenhouseGoSunny Deluxe Walk in Green House
editors choice
Dimensions:12’ x 7’ x 7’30" x 22.5” x 43"56” x 56” x 77”
Frame:SteelWoodSteel
Panels:PolyethylenePolycarbonatePolyethylene
Shelves:None28

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated Greenhouses For 2021

  1. Quictent Portable Greenhouse
  2. Giantex Garden Portable Wooden Greenhouse
  3. GoSunny Walk in Green House
  4. Palram HG5006G Mythos Greenhouse
  5. Nova 4 Tier Mini Greenhouse
  6. Palram HG5508 Hybrid Greenhouse
  7. Outsunny Portable Walk-In Garden Greenhouse

Our reviews of the top rated greenhouse kits along with our comparison table and buying guide below will help you choose the right greenhouse for you.

Greenhouse Kit Reviews

Quictent Portable Greenhouse at a Glance:

  • Size: 12’ x 7’ x 7’
  • Frame Material: Steel
  • Panels: Polyethylene
  • Shelves: None

The Quictent Portable Greenhouse is not only convenient and easy to setup, it’s very large at 12’ x 7’ x 7′.

The design is large enough to house various trees and plants of your choosing, while still allowing them each the space they need to be happy.

The white powder-coated steel frame is incredibly tough and is resistant to rusting and corrosion to be safely used in all kinds of weather. 8 bases and 16 stakes ensure that it holds up in storms, resisting snow and wind.

The cover is made of transparent reinforced polyethylene which is not only waterproof, but completely UV-resistant to protect your plants from excess sunlight.

The overlong cover design is made to keep the greenhouse safer and tighter with the ability of burying it in the dirt so the elements don’t get inside.

Not only that, but it’s also ideal for creating and maintaining high humidity levels that many tropical plants require to thrive.

However, ventilation is no issue thanks to the 6 side vents which give your plants the perfect amount of airflow.

The zippered front and back doors can also be used for ventilation if you’d like, while being able to stay securely closed when you need them to. After all, this is the best backyard greenhouse you can find out there.


Giantex Garden Portable Wooden Cold Frame Greenhouse

Giantex Garden Portable Wooden Cold Frame Greenhouse at a Glance:

  • Size: 35″ x 19” x 40″
  • Frame Material: Wood
  • Panels: Polycarbonate
  • Shelves: 2

If the last product was too big for your needs, check out the best small greenhouse: the Giantex Garden Portable Wooden Cold Frame Greenhouse.

This model is perfect for sprucing up your garden or giving your balcony a resurgence of character and beauty.

The solid Fir wood frame not only looks nice but is made for heavy-duty use. This means that you can easily use it outdoors and hold relatively heavy pots inside.

The foldable top is incredibly useful for every season. When it’s sunny, simply open it up and let your plants enjoy.

The polycarbonate glazing board is not just there for visual aesthetics, but works to keep plants warm. When it’s rainy, leave it closed so they aren’t affected.

As far as space goes, you have the top compartment where you can fit various types of plants and vegetables, and the bottom shelf which gives you even more versatility. Here, you can place gardening tools, rainboots, or whatever else you’d like.

While assembly is required, all parts are detachable, making it incredibly versatile. You can break it down into smaller pieces for easy transportation if you need to relocate it as the seasons change.


GoSunny Deluxe Walk in Green House

Deluxe Green House Walk in Outdoor Plant Gardening at a Glance:

  • Size: 56” x 56” x 77”
  • Frame Material: Steel
  • Panels: Polyethylene
  • Shelves: 12

Perhaps you want something in-between the previous two greenhouses; not quite as big as the first but larger than the Giantex.

If so, then take a good look at the Deluxe Green House. It’s the perfect size for many, as you can if you’d like, fit in trees, but a huge amount of plants as well.

With 8 shelves (4 on each side), you’ll have more than enough space for whatever you need, while allowing each individual plant enough room to breathe and flourish.

Each shelf is made of wiring so they can breathe from the bottom as well, without risk of water pooling.

The walk-in design is perfect for tending to all of your blooming flowers, veggies, and more while giving extra room to larger plants. The entrance features a zippered roll-up door which isn’t the most secure but does allow for easy access.

Built with heavy-duty powder-coated steel, it’s surprisingly resilient against the elements – even wind and storms. With 4 ropes and 4 stakes, you can properly secure it to the ground, making sure it doesn’t go anywhere. We would’ve preferred a more airtight design, but it’s not bad by any means.

The reinforced green polyethylene cover is quite thick and designed to help hold up against various types of weather.

With the best mini greenhouse being so easy to set up and break down, you can also move it inside your garage when the temperatures drop, or remove the PVC cover in the heat.


Palram HG5006G Mythos Greenhouse

Palram HG5008 Mythos Greenhouse at a Glance:

  • Size: 6’ x 8′ x 7′
  • Frame Material: Aluminum
  • Panels: Polycarbonate
  • Shelves: None

A truly stunning piece of equipment in both looks and functionality, the Palram HG5008 Mythos Greenhouse is one of our favorites all-around.

The see-through design is made to combine modern and traditional elements to create a head-turning greenhouse you and your neighbors will love.

The polycarbonate roof and wall panels are surprisingly easy to see through yet provide 100% UV protection and over 90% light transmission right to your plants.

These panels ensure they get enough sun, but not too much. They’re also sturdy to a point where they’re virtually unbreakable, resisting any kind of weather with ease.

With an aluminum frame, you’ll get a product that’s relatively lightweight yet tough enough to withstand moisture and extreme temperatures. The frame snaps together so quickly that even if you’re not DIY-savvy, you’ll have a good time putting it up.

A single double-hung door is there to keep out animals and other intruders, while allowing plants the proper ventilation they need.

This model is one of the most secure and stable in just about every aspect. Small but important additions such as built-in rain gutters and manual roof vents only add to the versatility it offers.

While it doesn’t come with shelves, you can always buy as many as you need, separately. There is enough room to fill it completely with an abundance of beautiful plants.


Nova Mini Greenhouse with Roll-Up Zipper Door at a Glance:

  • Size: 25” x 19” x 63”
  • Frame Material: Steel
  • Panels: Transparent plastic with grid threading
  • Shelves: 4

One of the best indoor greenhouses that can be used outside as well, is the 4 Tier Mini Greenhouse with PE Cover. It’s relatively small-looking from the outside, but fits in a great amount of pots and plants.

The 4-tier design protects plants from the elements and is perfect for beginner seedlings or protecting delicate plants.

With the frame made of high-quality tubular steel with powder-coated bearing net, this is also one of the toughest models available today.

It’s so durable, in fact, that you could probably leave it out in the snow with no issue, although that’s obviously not going to be great for plants. Despite this, the frame is quite light and easy to move around if you need to.

The net on every layer allows you to hold more pots and plants, and even growth lights if you need. They’ve managed to create stability while never forgetting the aesthetic appeal that greenhouses can have.

The light mint green cover contrasts perfectly with the black steel, jiving well with stones, wood, or greenery.

To keep your plants happy, you’ll find a zippered roll-up door which provides quick access, while allowing for excellent airflow.

You’ll also receive a PE cloth and non-woven fabric cover which will help keep them in optimal conditions throughout the year. Because of these reasons and more, it’s obvious to see why it’s one of the best portable greenhouses.


Palram HG5508 Hybrid Greenhouse

Palram HG5508 Hybrid Greenhouse at a Glance:

  • Size: 6’ x 8’ x 7’
  • Frame Material: Aluminum
  • Panels: Polycarbonate
  • Shelves: None

If you’re serious about your plants and show no signs of slowing down, then check out the Palram HG5508 Hybrid Greenhouse.

It’s by no means cheap, but it’s well worth it if you’re looking for real quality. The best small greenhouse is relatively compact, while still offering ample space for whatever you need.

Trees, plants, flowers, vegetables, pots, tools and more seamlessly fit in this beauty.

With completely clear polycarbonate side panels, your plants will receive up to 90% light transmission which will keep them happy and healthy.

The clear design is wonderful for keeping them protected while letting others spectate, adding life and character to your yard.

The virtually unbreakable 4mm twin-wall polycarbonate roof panels are not only strong, but prevent up to 99.9% of UV rays from getting in.

By diffusing the sunlight, this eliminates the risk of plant burn, which can be hard to avoid without such a fixture.

The frame is comprised of aluminum which is not only resistant to rust, but also very lightweight and heavy-duty. The base is made of galvanized steel to help provide more strength to the structure, as well.

To add to the versatility and convenience, the model also features an adjustable roof vent, rain gutters, and a lockable door handle with magnetic door catch. It’s one of the most secure we’ve come across, and will eliminate the risk of any unwanted visitors coming inside.

If that weren’t enough for you, they’ve also thrown in a generous 5-year limited warranty so you’re not losing anything by purchasing with them.


Outsunny Portable Walk-In Garden Greenhouse at a Glance:

  • Size: 8’ x 6’ x 7’
  • Frame Material: Steel Tube
  • Panels: Transparent plastic with grid threading
  • Shelves: 12

Slightly smaller than the previous product, is the Outsunny Portable Walk-In Garden Greenhouse. The dark-green-and-clear model is the perfect addition to any backyard or garden.

The UV-resistant transparent plastic panels are made to prevent them from getting burned, allowing just enough natural light to pass through to keep them blossoming as they should.

With roll-up door, your plants are sure to get enough air, as well as receiving adequate protection from the elements.

There is no base with this model, so you may want to consider putting down pavers or over a slab,

This design is made to hold up well in high winds and rain. The roll-up door offers quick access, but is still made to be durable and protect against any unwanted creatures/weather from coming inside.

Assembly was suggested by the instructions to be performed by 2 people, but it’s actually possible to do with just one. The process was surprisingly easy and quick, despite being such a relatively large structure.

The Outsunny comes with 18 ventilated shelves so you have plenty of space for your plants or vegetables.


Greenhouse Comparison Table

Greenhouse DimensionsFramePanelsShelvesRating
Quictent Portable Greenhouse12’ x 7’ x 7’SteelPolyethyleneNone4.1 / 5.0
Giantex Wood Frame Greenhouse30" x 22.5” x 43"WoodPolycarbonate24.3 / 5.0
GoSunny Deluxe Walk in Green House56” x 56” x 77”SteelPolyethylene124.5 / 5.0
Palram Mythos Greenhouse6’ x 8' x 7'Aluminum PolycarbonateNone3.6 / 5.0
Nova 4 Tier Mini Greenhouse25” x 19” x 63”SteelPolyethylene44.2 / 5.0
Palram HG5508 Greenhouse6’ x 8’ x 7’AluminumPolycarbonateNone3.7 / 5.0
Outsunny Garden Greenhouse8’ x 6’ x 7’Steel TubeTransparent plastic with grid threading123.5 / 5.0

How to Choose the Best Greenhouse – Buying Guide

best small greenhouse
Palram HG5006G Mythos Greenhouse

There’s so much thought to be placed into buying the best greenhouse. Not only does it regard your preferences, but also the needs of your plants and the size of the available space you have. That’s why we’ve decided to take matters into our own hands and write up this handy buying guide for you.

Size

When it comes to greenhouses, yes, size matters. What do you have in mind? Do you already have the plants you’re going to place inside or are you buying the greenhouse and deciding later? If the latter is true, then what kind of vision do you have?

Will you have a bunch of smaller plants or will you have large, luscious trees? If you’re just getting into gardening, then a kind of “starter” or beginner greenhouse may be the best solution. These models allow you to get your plants started, so you can then migrate them outside once they’ve gotten big enough.

Again, consider how much size you have available, too. If you’re going to be placing it indoors, chances are you’ll be tight on space and a starter kit may also be best.

Ventilation

A good greenhouse provides the perfect combination between protection and ventilation. It’s kind of like an incubator for plants. However, there are so many plants that have suffered because the greenhouse got too hot or too humid.

The key is to release the hot air when it’s hot outside, and keep the hot air inside when it’s cold outdoors. Vents are a great way of accomplishing this, as they can be opened and closed as you’d like.

Insulation

Depending on the kind of climate you live in, you may need to add some insulation into the mix. If you live in a colder environment, then thicker insulation is necessary. A twin-wall polyethylene will definitely do the job, keeping in natural warmth which can save a pretty penny on heating.

Panels

Panels are a crucial part of the greenhouse, and if they’re not working perfectly, your plants could suffer.

greenhouse kit panels
Panels of the Palram HG5006G Mythos Greenhouse

Clarity

Many on our guide feature crystal-clear panels, which let you see completely through them. Some people like these types, while others like them to come off a bit more elusive.

Aside from preference however, clear panels let in more light, which creates better photosynthesis. These are ideal if you have taller plants that love growing towards the light.

UV Protection

In contrast, you also want the panels to provide adequate protection from the sun’s rays. If they don’t, neither your plants nor your greenhouse is going to stick around for very long. When you combine sun and plastic, nothing good is going to come out of that, which is why protective coating is so important.

Glass

Panels made of glass look gorgeous and are very resistant to impact, as well as the movements of the frame during temperature changes. The thicker it is, the more insulation it will provide. Also, you won’t have to worry about scratches.

Polycarbonate

This is one of our favorite materials for greenhouses, due to how light and durable polycarbonate is. In addition, it’s a bit more budget-friendly than glass is. You’ll receive the clarity of glass, but not the raw strength. If you do properly care for it, however, you can expect it to last for many years to come.

Fiberglass

This material isn’t as clear as the previous two, but is made to diffuse lighting quite well. It is relatively strong, but after a few years, you may see a bit of yellowing start to appear due to sunlight.

Polyethylene

Commonly known as “plastic” this material is one of the most common due to how cheap they are, and easy to maintain. Most are perfectly translucent, providing diffused light. We recommend polyethylene only if you’re living in more temperate/warm climates.

Frame

greenhouse kit frame
Aluminum frame of the Palram HG5006G Mythos Greenhouse

The frame is another huge aspect, ultimately determining how long it’s going to last. Frame materials vary from wood, plastic, steel, or aluminum.

Wood: Wood is arguably the most visually attractive option, offering a kind of “natural” or “rustic” feel to a garden or balcony. However, it also loves moisture and breaks down relatively quickly.

Plastic: As previously mentioned, plastic requires a type of protective coating or it’s not going to last at all in the summer heat.

Steel: Steel is incredibly tough but often need some extra maintenance. It’s also known to be quite heavy, though it should last a long time if properly cared for.

Aluminum: Aluminum is lightweight but very tough, and is often resistant against rust so it fares well in all kinds of weather.

FAQs About Greenhouses

Q: How long will my new greenhouse last?

A: This will depend quite a bit on how you maintain it, and the material it’s made out of. However, for most on our guide, you can expect them to last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.

Q: Will my greenhouse require complete sunlight?

A: If you can, try and find a place where it will receive at minimum, 6 hours of direct sunlight each day during the winter. If that’s not possible, you can also add in some grow lights to help.

Q: How can I cool down my greenhouse?

A: The easiest way to do so is through ventilation, so purchasing a model that already comes with built-in vents is an excellent way to combat heat. Another option is to provide shade.

Q: What are the benefits of a greenhouse?

A: The main benefit, is that your plants have the chance to grow better. Those that experience extreme cold and heat over 24 hours don’t grow anywhere near as well as greenhouse plants. By using a greenhouse, they’ll be in a temperature-controlled environment.

Tips For Using a Greenhouse

#1: Always make sure your plants have proper ventilation.
Not only can this create too much heat, but there are plenty of pests out there that attack plants which are in a closed environment.

#2: No matter where you place your greenhouse, ensure it’s sitting on a firm foundation.
You should never place it on soft dirt or silt that can easily move as the weather does. Rather, opt for brick, concrete, timber, and so on.

#3: For a floor that not only looks nice, but keeps the greenhouse cool in the summer, try pea gravel.
You can even spray rocks with water when it’s particularly hot out to make it colder inside.

Outside Pursuits Overview

Now that you’ve had the chance to look at each of the best greenhouses, which one will be taking up residency at your home? While all of them are high quality, it’s up to you to pick the perfect product for you and your needs. We hope that our article has helped you in doing just that. Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll see you again soon! Happy gardening!

How We Researched

To come up with the top greenhouse kits, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as Home Depot, Lowes, Target and Wayfair  along with our own personal experience.

We also consulted online magazines for product research and reviews to get as much unbiased information as we could. To help weed out fake reviews we used Fakespot.com to make sure we only looked at genuine reviews.

With so much quality gear available, we had to narrow it down based on what we felt were the best options were for the price. The staff authors have a wide and varied background in yard design and home repairs.

The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.

To help narrow down the selection we used personal experiences along with recommendations from landscapers, bloggers and contractors.

After extensive research, we came up with our list to help you choose the right one for you.

Sources

Notice:

OutsidePursuits.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. OutsidePursuits.com earns fees from products sold through qualifying purchases by linking to Amazon.com. Amazon offers a commission on products sold through their affiliate links.

Shayanne Weeks

Shayanne is a freelance writer and marketer based in LA, California. Describing herself as a nomad, she has lived in Boise, Idaho and Seattle, Washington as well as Guadalajara, Mexico. As an extremely active person, she loves to snowboard, skateboard, and ski. She enjoys sharing her love for active sports with others through her “how to” sports guides and sports equipment reviews. Shyanne is addicted to the adrenaline rush she experiences during her outdoor pursuits, from ziplining in Mexico to snowboarding in Idaho.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Back to top button