All You Need to Know About A Portable Greenhouse

When I left my family home, the thing I missed the most was my garden. City living is great, but finding a spot to grow veggies is tough, especially when you're always on the move.

That's when I stumbled upon portable greenhouses – what a game-changer! I got one right away. It's like having a magic garden that moves with you. I could now switch apartments without saying goodbye to my beloved green plants.

Choosing the right portable greenhouse wasn't easy, though. There are so many! I remember spending hours online, comparing different types, feeling a bit lost in the sea of options.

But hey, I've done the hard work, so you don't have to. I'm here to share a complete guide on portable greenhouses, packed with everything you need to know. Plus, I'll throw in my personal tips and tricks – from someone who's been there, done that.

Ready to dive in? Let's go!

The 7 Best Portable Greenhouses Reviewed

1. EAGLE PEAK Mini Garden Portable Greenhouse (Best Quality)

Let me tell you about my little green wonder – the EAGLE PEAK Mini Garden Portable Greenhouse. This compact greenhouse has been a delightful addition to my gardening routine.

When I first got this greenhouse, the quality struck me. The cover is a sturdy, transparent green, both water-resistant and UV-protected. It's made from thick, non-toxic polyethylene, which means no strange smells and a safe space for both my plants and me.

I've noticed it does an excellent job at trapping heat, giving my plants the warmth they need. This feature has been fantastic for lengthening my growing season, letting me enjoy fresh veggies for longer.

What I absolutely adore are the two doors. They open up simultaneously, allowing for superb airflow, which is essential on hot days. Plus, getting to my plants is a breeze – no more awkward reaching or bending.

The overlong cover design is something I didn't know I needed until I had it. It completely encloses the greenhouse, adding an extra layer of protection. On windy days, I've been placing a few stones on it for added stability, and it works like a charm.

2. Quictent Upgraded Portable Greenhouse (Best Large Option)

When I embarked on my journey to find a larger greenhouse, the Quictent Upgraded model caught my eye, and it hasn't disappointed me. Here’s a peek into my experience with it.

What really impressed me were the dual doors on each side. One mesh door lets the breeze in on hot days, and the other PE cover door keeps warmth in when needed. The flexibility of using each door independently is a game-changer for me.

The ten exhaust vents across the upper sides and doors ensure my plants get all the fresh air they need, making it a haven for cross ventilation.

It's a sturdy structure. The crossbars on top stop any snow or rain buildup, and the U-type stakes keep it firmly grounded, even when the wind picks up.

The two-layer cover, embedded with reinforcement mesh, is robust. It not only protects my plants in diverse weather conditions but also lets in ample sunlight, keeping my garden thriving.

3. Home-Complete HC-4202 Walk-In Greenhouse (A Shelving Paradise)

I recently added the Home-Complete HC-4202 Walk-In Greenhouse to my gardening arsenal, and it's been a delightful experience. Here's why it's become a favorite:

The eight shelves are a gardener's dream. They're perfect for holding trays, pots, and even some gardening tools. I've enjoyed the flexibility of having all my gardening essentials within arm's reach.

The fact that these shelves can be removed easily is a huge plus. It allows me to customize the space according to my current gardening projects.

I've experimented with placing it in different locations – my backyard, the patio, and even considered the basement garage. It's versatile enough to fit into various spaces.

When outside, the PVC cover has been fantastic at protecting my plants from frost and pests.

The included ropes and anchors are a boon for extra stability, especially on breezy days. The zip ties ensure the shelves stay in place and don’t tip over, giving me peace of mind.

4. Nova Microdermabrasion Mini Walk-in Greenhouse (Best for Solar Energy)

When I started using the Nova Microdermabrasion Mini Walk-in Greenhouse, I was immediately struck by its ability to harness solar energy. The greenhouse, with its clear PC cover, is a marvel at letting through and retaining sunlight. This feature not only ensures that my plants are basking in enough light but also keeps the interior comfortably warm, which is crucial for extending the growing season.

One of the aspects I appreciate most is its waterproof nature. Living in an area where the weather can be unpredictable, knowing that my plants are safe from rain, pests, and frost is a huge relief. The protective quality of this greenhouse doesn't just offer physical shelter; it gives me peace of mind.

Accessibility is another strong point. The entrance, equipped with a zippered roll-up door, makes it incredibly easy to access my plants. Whether I'm watering, pruning, or just checking on their progress, I can get in and out without any hassle. The added loops that connect the cover to the frame, besides aiding in holding up the door, also enhance ventilation, ensuring that my plants get fresh air without being exposed to harsh conditions.

The frame's construction is another area where this greenhouse shines. Made of a heavy-duty powder-coated metal tube, it stands strong against the elements. The rust-resistant feature of the frame, complemented by connectors that thread through, extends the life of the greenhouse significantly. It's not just a temporary fixture in my garden; it's a long-term investment.

Despite its many strengths, one area that could be improved is the stability of the shelves. Plus, the setup instruction wasn't clear either. However, this point does not significantly detract from the overall effectiveness of the greenhouse.

5. Ohuhu Large Walk-in Greenhouse (Best Outdoor Greenhouse)

I find that the Ohuhu Large Walk-in Greenhouse strikes a notable balance between functionality and areas for improvement. Its smart design, with dimensions of 12 x 6.6 x 6.6 feet, offers ample space for a variety of plants. The inclusion of doors with screens and roll-up windows enhances ventilation while aiming to keep pests out, a feature that initially caught my eye.

The greenhouse's ability to withstand various weather conditions is commendable, though not without its challenges. While it provides substantial protection against rain, wind, and frost, its performance in extreme conditions could be tested, suggesting the need for additional reinforcement in certain climates.

Growing a range of species, regardless of the season, is a significant advantage of this greenhouse. However, gardeners looking to cultivate particularly sensitive plants might find the heat and light management requires careful monitoring to avoid overheating during the sunniest days.

Durability is a strong point, with rustproof tube frames and a heavy-duty cover. Yet, the assembly process, described as simple, can be somewhat time-consuming, requiring patience and precision to ensure stability. The guy ropes and stakes add much-needed support, though in areas with strong winds, extra anchoring might be necessary to ensure the greenhouse remains secure.

Overall, the Ohuhu Large Walk-in Greenhouse offers a solid option for gardeners seeking to expand their plant cultivation capabilities. While it excels in design and versatility, attention to detail in assembly and additional precautions for extreme weather are advisable for optimal use.

6. CO-Z Lean-to Greenhouse (Best Easy Installation)

This greenhouse’s design is different compared to others on the list. This is a lean-to greenhouse, which means you have to lean it against some other structure. It has three walls, and it shares a wall with another building. This can be inside your home, a shed, or any other structure you find convenient.

While it isn’t the largest greenhouse on this list, it does provide adequate space inside. It helps that it comes with shelves that maximize the space, which you can use for plants or storage.

Although this greenhouse technically has three sides, it’s still very durable. It comes with 4 ropes and 4 stakes to secure it and prevent falling or being blown over in the wind.  The ground nail and guyline give it stability.

7. Home-Complete Mini Greenhouse-4-Tier Indoor Outdoor Sturdy Portable Shelves (Best for Seedlings)

This next greenhouse has wheels, so you’ll be able to move it around. The wheels can be removed, so you can also fix the greenhouse in place. It’s not too big and can be kept inside or outside. You can also store it on a large balcony, or if you have a sunroom. 

It has a clear PVC cover that lets in sunlight and protects the plants from pests for a good growing environment. 

It also comes with 4-tires of shelves, which can hold up to 24lbs. I found it works best for starting seeds on trays, and it can fit many racks of starter seeds. Because it keeps the moisture in, it has slow evaporation, so you won’t have to water your seedlings very often.

Types of Portable Greenhouses: Aren’t They All Same?

When I first heard about portable greenhouses, I thought, "Aren't they all pretty much the same?" 

But nope, I was wrong.

There's a whole world of them out there, each with its own perks. Let me walk you through what I found – it's like a mini adventure in the world of gardening!

1. The Petite Powerhouse: Portable Mini Greenhouse

Think small but mighty. These mini greenhouses are super light and usually come with 3 or 4 shelves. Some even have adjustable shelves – a big plus for your taller green babies. They come in three styles:

Mini portable greenhouses are usually 2 to 6 feet tall, and they have an opening that you can roll up and down and close with a zipper. 

They are easy to set up. In most cases, you won’t need any tools. They are made of clear polyethylene and iron tubing, so you don’t have to worry about rust and corrosion if you place it outside.

Pro Tip: Mini greenhouses are usually lightweight, so you may need to weigh them down on windy days if you place them outdoors.

2. Step Right In: Portable Walk-In Greenhouse

This one's like a cozy room for your plants. They're bigger than mini greenhouses but still compact enough. Great for both indoors and outdoors, they're perfect for storing not just plants, but also your gardening tools.

I often keep my natural pesticides in mine. They typically have no floor, so you're standing on whatever surface they're placed on. They're easy to assemble (snap and go!) and light enough to move when empty.

Pro Tip: Secure it well if it's placed on concrete, especially on windy days.

3. The Big Deal: Large Portable Greenhouse

Fancy a tunnel?

The portable tunnel greenhouse is your go-to. No wheels, no floor, but walkable and perfect for larger gardens.

They come in lengths up to 20 feet and are great for frost protection.

Choose one with two doors for better air circulation. They're heavier due to the powder-coated steel frame but still manageable, especially with a buddy for the cover setup.

4. Sturdy and Strong: Compact Greenhouse

This one's the tough cookie – heavier (45 to 75 pounds) and sturdier, mimicking traditional greenhouses. With a door latch, vents, gutters, and lock, it's a serious player.

It uses UV-resistant polycarbonate sheets and an aluminum frame.

It's wind-resistant up to 12 mph but might need anchoring in stormy areas. The cool part? You get better control over the internal conditions compared to others.

5. Roll With It: Portable Greenhouse on Wheels

Last but not least, the wheeled wonder. It’s a bit heavier, but those wheels make it a breeze to move around.

Need more space? Just roll it to a new spot.

You can DIY this one too. Get a portable greenhouse, fit a floor, slap on some wheels, and voila!

These are great for indoor use, offering unmatched flexibility and freedom.

So there you have it, the lowdown on portable greenhouses. Each has its charm, and honestly, it's hard to pick a favorite. Which one catches your eye?

What to Look for When Buying a Portable Greenhouse

Picking the right portable greenhouse can be tricky. Let's break down what you need to consider:

1. Frame Material: Strength and Durability

Wooden Frames:

Also known as cold frames, they're great for year-round use in milder climates. But, they can rot in damp conditions. You'll need to sand and re-stain them occasionally.

Metal Frames:

These are usually aluminum or powder-coated steel. They're low-maintenance, easy to assemble (often just snapping together), and rust-resistant.

2. Siding Material: The Right Cover

Plastic Siding:

Common in mini greenhouses, plastic is lightweight and easy to move. But watch out – it can get too hot inside. Make sure there's good ventilation, like roll-up windows or doors. And in windy areas, you'll need strong stakes to keep it grounded.

Glass Siding:

If you're going for a more premium look, glass is your friend. It's excellent for harsh weather and lets in plenty of sunlight for seedlings. But remember, glass can break easily, especially if you move your greenhouse a lot.

An alternative?

Poly-carbonate panels – they're sturdier but let in less light.

Remember, each material has its pros and cons. Think about your climate, how often you'll move the greenhouse, and what you'll be growing. These factors will help you decide the best material for your needs.

3. Weight

When you're in the market for a portable greenhouse, one of the first things to think about is its weight. Here's how it breaks down:

Plastic Siding: Light and easy to move. If you're planning to shift your greenhouse often, this is a great choice.

Metal Frames vs. Wooden Frames: Metal, especially the lightweight types, is usually lighter than wood. This means easier movement and less hassle.

Glass Panels: They add a touch of class, but they also add weight. If you're eyeing a greenhouse with glass panels, be prepared for the extra heft.

Size Matters: A typical compact greenhouse ranges from 45 to 75 pounds. The smaller mini greenhouses are lighter, but if you go for a greenhouse on wheels, expect it to be on the heavier side.

In my experience, choosing the right weight depends on how often you plan to move your greenhouse. If it's going to stay put most of the time, a heavier option might be fine. But if you're like me, always rearranging your garden space, lighter is better. Remember, the right balance of durability and portability is key!

4. Size Matters: Fit for Your Space

Whether it's a cozy balcony, a city patio, or a spacious backyard, there's a greenhouse for every size. Most are under 6 feet tall. Compact ones are about 10 square feet, and tabletop versions are smaller.

Before buying, measure your outdoor space, and don't forget to think about indoor space if you plan to move it inside during colder months.

5. Shelves: Storage and Space Efficiency

Shelves usually match the frame's material – wood, metal, or plastic. Some have adjustable shelves for different plant sizes, while others are fixed.

Remember, upper shelves might block sunlight for seedlings below.

6. The Kit: What's Included?

Kits range from simple plant-and-hardware boxes to more elaborate setups. I recommend getting a full kit, not just the frame. Check for included covers.

Most kits are like setting up a tent, with flexible rods and straightforward instructions.

Typically, you'll find steel or aluminum frames, plastic sheets, and a PVC waterproof canopy roof.

If you're good with tools, you could even build your own greenhouse.

What to Look for in a Kit:

• Movable Shelves: They offer flexibility for plant sizes.
• Zippered Doors: For ventilation and easy access.
• Clear Cover: To let in plenty of sunlight.
• Sturdy Stakes: For secure installation.

7. Watering: Keep it Hydrated

Place your greenhouse near a water source. Remember, plants inside won't get rainwater, so they rely entirely on you. Having water nearby makes your gardening life much easier.

8. Power Source: Stay Powered Up

If you need a heater in colder months, keep your greenhouse close to an electrical outlet. An extension cord might work, but always think about safety. If in doubt, get an electrician's advice or have them install a power outlet in your greenhouse.

9. Lighting: Let There Be Light

Even in a clear greenhouse, remember that winter days are shorter and cloudier. Your plants still need their light.

You also need to see your plants clearly, so consider additional lighting.

Some fancy greenhouses come with lights. If yours doesn't, think about getting grow lights or installing LED lights.

10. Ventilation: Keep the Air Flowing

Good air circulation is key to managing heat and moisture.

Many small greenhouses have zippered doors – great for letting air in, especially in summer. If you're choosing a tunnel greenhouse, one with two doors is ideal for airflow.

Make sure there's at least one opening for ventilation, no matter the size of your greenhouse.

Why Should You Get a Portable Greenhouse?

Here are my top reasons why everyone should own a portable greenhouse.

Grow Plants All Year Long

With a portable greenhouse, you won’t have to limit yourself to eating only the produce that’s in season. You can grow your favorite veggies throughout the year.

A portable greenhouse is easy to move. If your plants like more sun, simply move it to a sunnier place in your home or property to ensure it has the optimal conditions to grow. 

A portable greenhouse is the answer if you want to extend the growing season or cultivate a plant all year long.

Save Money on Groceries

This one goes hand in hand with growing plants all year long.

You can grow peas, kale, lettuce, and many other vegetables yourself, which will significantly reduce how much money you shell out for groceries.

You’ll also be saving money on gas, as you don’t have to drive to the grocery store. Just walk into your portable greenhouse and get the veggies you need for your salad.

Not to mention, this is also better for the environment.

Grow Sensitive Plants

I LOVE orchids. However, it took me years before I learned how to grow and take care of them successfully, and one of the things that helped a lot was a greenhouse.

Orchids are extremely temperature-sensitive. They aren’t used to colder seasons, and they love humid conditions.

I was able to recreate a perfect environment for orchids in my portable mini greenhouse, so they flourished even during the freezing winter months. This makes winter gardening so easy. 

Of course, you can also grow other sensitive plants — I also grow key lime and mandarin orange, both of which don’t do well in freezing temperatures. Or, you can move the greenhouse from outdoors to indoors if your plants love warmer temperatures.

Keep Plants Safe from Frost

I grew up watching my mom religiously checking the weather forecast once autumn starts and throwing old sheets, blankets, and cloths over plants.

I found an easier solution to keep the plants safe from frost — a small winter greenhouse. 

Most greenhouses don’t have flooring, so placing them over plants or low-lying flower beds is easy.

Once the frost is over, I simply remove it, and my plants are safe.

Take It with You

I’m talking from personal experience, as someone who moved several times in the last couple of years. I was able to take my portable greenhouse with me.

If you have to relocate because of job requirements, family, or other reasons, a portable greenhouse can come with you, especially a mini one.

You’ll be saving up a ton of time, as you won’t have to set up a new garden every time you move. And you won’t have to leave it behind and abandon all the effort you’ve put into growing your garden.

You Can Be Self-Reliant

I’ve already mentioned how growing your own veggies will save you money. But, it also means you’ll be independent.

In case of a natural disaster or a global pandemic, which we all saw is a scenario that can easily happen, you won’t have to go out and mix with other people.

You can grow a lot of the food you need on your own and be safe knowing you won’t starve.

You Don’t Need a Large Space For It

Portable greenhouses come in different sizes, and there are many small greenhouse variations. This means, even if you don’t have a huge yard, you can still have a greenhouse.

Small portable greenhouses are usually vertical, and they have shelves on which you can put your plants and a zippered door that you can roll up or down.

You can place them on a patio, balcony, even on a table if you go for a tabletop greenhouse. This is also convenient if you live in a small space. You can move a portable greenhouse out of the way when needed.

Because they are so small, they are lightweight, and you can move them around your home or take them with you when you move homes.

My Recommended Portable Greenhouse

The best part? It's non-toxic and odor-free, so no worrying about harmful gases. Plus, its double-door design means great ventilation, and the overlong cover is perfect for those windy days.

All of these make me confident that Eagle Pick is the right greenhouse kit for your plants.