Best greenhouses for new and seasoned gardeners
From greenhouse types and sizes to glazing options and installation tips, our expert guide will help you pick the right one for your needs.
Shop all greenhouses&poi={$this.metadata.pointOfInterest.x},{$this.metadata.pointOfInterest.y},{$this.metadata.pointOfInterest.w},{$this.metadata.pointOfInterest.h}&scaleFit={($this.metadata.pointOfInterest.x>0)?$sfpoi:$sfcenter}&sm=aspect&aspect=3:2&sfcenter=center&sfpoi=poi&qlt=50&fmt=auto&noiser=0&fmt.jpeg.interlaced=true&fmt.jp2.qlt=40&)
Four great greenhouse ideas for your garden
- Cold frames - You can use these simple, sloped greenhouses anywhere you have plants that need protection from frost and damp.
- Mini greenhouses - Small greenhouses are perfect if you're just getting into gardening. These are great value, easy to assemble and simple to look after.
- Walk-in greenhouses - Medium greenhouses are a great option if you're not ready to commit to a permanent greenhouse. They take up little space but offer lots of room for seedlings and plants to grow.
- Full-size greenhouses - Large greenhouses are for the dedicated gardener and they are available in a range of sizes. Pick either a classic wood greenhouse or durable metal model.
What type of greenhouse is best for you?
Plastic greenhouse
Smaller than traditional greenhouses, these can be assembled or disassembled in a matter of minutes.
Why they're great:
- Cheaper alternative to glass greenhouses
- Can be positioned against walls
- Lightweight and easy to install
Wooden greenhouse
These offer a more rustic style. They are slower to heat up than other models but retain their heat for longer.
Why they're great:
- Natural, traditional look
- Easy to customise
- Timber offers more insulation
Aluminium greenhouse
Greenhouses made of aluminium require little maintenance and last for many years.
Why they're great:
- Lightweight for easier construction
- Sturdy enough for lasting use
- Low maintenance
Greenhouse glazing options
There are a number of glazing materials for greenhouses available, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here's what you need to know about the different types:
Horticultural glass
• Standard value option
• More fragile. The glass can shatter
• Lets in a lot of light
Toughened safety glass
• Strong and resistant to breakage
• Won't shatter - breaks into small bits
• Lets in a lot of light
Polycarbonate glazing
• Strongest option, hard to break
• Offers more insulation
• Lets in slightly less light
Styrene glass
• Plastic. Stronger than glass
• Won't shatter
• Can discolour over time
Greenhouse installation
Choosing a base for your greenhouse
You'll need a base to secure your greenhouse to the ground. Bases are sometimes included, or can be purchased separately. A base should be the same size or a few cms larger than your greenhouse. You'll also need to anchor your greenhouse to the base. An anchor kit may come with a base, or be sold separately.
Assembling a greenhouse
Our greenhouses come in kit form with all the necessary parts included for you to build at home. Greenhouses should be assembled by at least two people for practical and safety reasons. Special care should be taken when working with extruded aluminium and handling glass, so always wear protective gloves and goggles.
Best spot for a greenhouse
The perfect position for your greenhouse is where there's plenty of light. Look for a flat surface - not bumpy or on a slope. Make sure it's away from trees to avoid shade and falling branches. Always try to install your greenhouse near walls or hedges to offer protection from the wind. Keep it close to your house if you need mains power for lights and heating. And, check if it can be close to a water tap.
Just can't wait?
Our mini and walk-in greenhouses can be collected in store. For large items, we offer named day delivery, letting you choose a day and time to suit your needs.
How to create a vegetable garden
Nurture your plants
Give some TLC to your plants. Tidy it up, keep those pesky weeds away and feed them nutritious food. And then, watch them flourish.
Pots & protection
Start small and keep seedlings in individual pots. Cover them for protection and remember to keep the greenhouse somewhere warm and sunny. As they grow, move them to bigger pots.
Remember to water
Little and often is ideal for the best results. Make sure there is space for the water to drain from the pots.
More garden inspiration
Garden shed and storage ideas
Find the right garden shed and storage option for all your needs.
Weeding tools & tips
Learn which tools are best for keeping those pesky weeds away from your garden.
