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?
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.