- Gardens
- Container Gardens
- Herb Gardens
- Organic Gardens
- Plant Disease
- Tomato Gardens
- Urban Gardens
- Vegetable Gardens
- Wild Birds
- Indoor Gardens
- Greenhouses
- Houseplants
- Hydroponics
- Indoor Gardening
Do you dream of growing your own tomatoes, herbs, and vegetables all year long? Then a DIY greenhouse is what you need! Having your own greenhouse can help you extend the growing season and allow you to enjoy your favorite hobby even during winter and cold climate!
Sure, you can buy a greenhouse kit and go with that, but there’s nothing like being able to build your own DIY greenhouse and customize it according to your budget and needs. It’s not only satisfying but incredibly rewarding and will allow you to have the backyard greenhouse of your dreams!
Greenhouses keep seedlings and plants warm in the winter and cool in the summer, allowing you to enjoy your favorite hobby all year.
The list of free greenhouse plans contains all the information you need to build your ideal greenhouse in any size and style, including diagrams, illustrations, photos, written building instructions, frame materials, and tools.
Building a DIY greenhouse may almost always be more affordable to finish on a budget than purchasing a premade version, depending on what size you want especially if you can find recycled materials such as old windows, used glass panels, and more.
We’ve shared 13 free DIY greenhouse plans in this article and broken them into sections based on the 7 different types of greenhouses you can go for. We’re sure you’re going to find one that’s perfect for your budget and needs.
So here are the top 13 DIY greenhouse projects and plans divided into sections based on the 7 different types of greenhouses:
Table of Contents
1. Lean-To Greenhouse
This category includes greenhouses that are built against the side of a building or attached to one side of an existing structure. The greenhouse walls can be used as one side of the greenhouse or placed between two buildings.
With lean-to greenhouses, you only have to cover the roof and three or two sides with greenhouse sheeting material to create a complete enclosure.
Most lean-to greenhouses and window-mounted greenhouses are no taller than 12 feet and can only accommodate one or two rows of plants. You can, however, extend it against a longer wall while ensuring it receives adequate sunlight.
It’s a great design that allows you to be near amenities such as water and electricity from the main building and usually costs less in materials since the structure is typically smaller.
Free DIY Lean-To Greenhouse Plan by Garden Plans Free
Use this incredible lean-to greenhouse plan by Garden Plans Free to make your own DIY greenhouse. You can easily attach it to an existing building, or garden shed, or even place it on one corner of your property. This guide and plan details all the material you’ll need, as well as tips and tricks for when you’re out and about shopping for all your DIY supplies. It’s a straightforward plan that’ll give great results.
Get it for free here.
DIY Lean-To Greenhouse Plan by My Outdoor Plans
Here’s another great design by My Outdoor Plans that can be done from start to finish in just one weekend. This free plan lists out everything you’ll need and is simple enough to try your hand at even if it’s your first time working with wood. It mainly uses 2×4 and 2×2 framing lumber.
Get it for free here.
Low-cost DIY Lean-to Greenhouse Plan by Instructables
This greenhouse was built for less than $200 in Vancouver, Canada! It uses low-cost material for a great design that you can lean against your house or any other building on your property. It is built from a polythene sheet stapled over a frame of 1″ x 2″ fir, 8-foot lengths, and the tutorial is incredibly simple and easy to follow.
Get it for free here.
2. Barn Style Greenhouse
Barn Style DIY Greenhouse by Ana White
If you’re thinking about aesthetics and want a barn-style greenhouse that’s freestanding, looks great, and gets the job done, then this category is perfect for you. This is a more traditional-looking design that is based more on aesthetics than other ones listed in this article.
It has a symmetrical design and this greenhouse design allows space to grow a few plants at a relatively low cost for heating and cooling. You can house more plants than with the lean-to style and it can provide insulation from the elements.
Free DIY Barnstyle Greenhouse Plan by Ana White
This stunning freestanding barn-style greenhouse plan by Ana White has inspired many variations over the years, and for a good reason! It’s easy to make, can be adapted to a bigger size, and looks incredible. This plan includes a complete shopping list along with step by step guide to help you build the perfect DIY greenhouse.
Get it for free here.
Easy DIY Barn Greenhouse Plan by My Outdoor Plans
This plan features detailed instructions for building a barn-shaped 10×12 greenhouse that you’re going to fall in love with. My Outdoor Plans have designed the plans to keep the costs under control and to involve the least amount of work possible. These are, by far, one of the easiest barn greenhouse plans you’ll find on the internet.
Get it for free here.
Simple DIY Barn Style Greenhouse Plan by BuildEazy
If you’re looking for a design that is built easy materials that are incredibly easy to find, then this plan by BuildEazy is perfect for you. With step-by-step instructions, picture illustrations, and tips every step of the way, it’s going to be one of the easiest and most fun projects you’ll ever do!
Get it for free here.
3. A-Frame Greenhouses
A-frame Greenhouses are a type of structure that consists of a triangular frame with the apex pointing upwards. The structure is usually supported by a foundation or legs that can be accessed from the ground. Due to their increased surface area exposed to sunlight, they have been used in the construction of heating ducts and greenhouse tunnels to improve mass transfer for plants.
They are well-known for their ability to be constructed permanently on-site. They are easy to build and don’t need many tools. This makes them one of the easiest greenhouses for anyone to build.
The aesthetic appeal of an A-frame greenhouse has led many to consider it better than other greenhouse designs. Each triangle can stand on its own and can be made longer or shorter as needed. This makes them ideal for growing a wide variety of plants in a small space.
DIY A-Frame Greenhouse Plan (With Video) by Field to Farm
This incredible A-frame greenhouse plan can be built from scratch with materials that cost less than $200! This can be easily adapted to make a bigger or longer greenhouse and is simple enough for newbies to try their hand at as well. This full tutorial is incredibly handy, especially for the visual learners out there. This is also the perfect design to adapt into a mini greenhouse if you’re looking for a small DIY greenhouse design.
Get it for free here.
4. Gable Greenhouses
Greenhouses with gable roofs are among the most common types of greenhouses because they receive the most sunlight while also providing a large area inside the structure for growing a large number of plants.
You can move around freely inside while taking care of your plants on the one hand because of the flat walls and higher roof.
The design is quite straightforward, so you should have little trouble constructing it yourself. But building it takes more work than building other types of greenhouses. Depending on the frame and cladding materials, the construction costs can also be quite reasonable.
The wind will have a greater impact on the side walls that are wider and flatter because they are exposed to the wind. However, the fact that the structure has a skeleton makes it more durable. But, of course, this depends on the frame and cladding materials.
Free DIY Polythene Gable Greenhouse Plan by BuildEazy
This free greenhouse plan from BuildEasy is constructed primarily with 2-by-4-inch wood studs. You can find shopping lists, directions, and diagrams for building a greenhouse by going through this free online plan. There are also pictures of greenhouses that other people have built using this simple plan.
Get it for free here.
Free DIY 16-foot Gable Greenhouse Plan by How To Specialist
You’ll find everything you need in this How To Specialist free greenhouse plan to construct a 16-foot-long greenhouse that’s ideal for your backyard. Along with written instructions, this free greenhouse plan features numerous diagrams and illustrations.
5. Quonset Greenhouses
Quonset greenhouses (also known as a hoop house) are semi-circular structures that resemble large, clear barrels cut in half. This structure has a curved roof and is designed in the style of a military hut.
For better insulation, pulleys are typically constructed from PVC or aluminum pipes and covered in polyethylene panels or film. Storage space and headroom are somewhat constrained by the side walls.
Since these components are easily disassembled and reassembled, you can relocate your greenhouse as needed in most situations.
If you intend to relocate the greenhouse, use temporary connectors such as bolts or screws, or drill holes in the pipes and zip-tie them together so that it can be reassembled later. Depending on how small the greenhouse is, you might be able to move it in one piece.
Free DIY Quonset PVC Greenhouse Plan by PVC Plans
Here’s a free PVC pipe-based quonset greenhouse plan from PVC Plans. When you download the free greenhouse PDF plan, you will receive a material list, diagrams, and written instructions. If you’re just getting started with greenhouse gardening, this is an excellent choice.
Get it for free here.
Free 32-foot Quonset Greenhouse Plan by Florida Gardener
If you’re looking to build a Quonset greenhouse but want a plan that goes for a bigger design, then this is a great one to start with. It includes a material list, along with step-by-step instructions and illustrations to make the job extra easy for you! It’s a really nice size greenhouse with tons of space for all your planters and pots.
Get it for free here.
6. Gothic Arch Greenhouses
The design is influenced by the windows of Gothic cathedrals from around the world. It has bent walls that form a pointed roof.
These greenhouses are similar to quonset greenhouses, but they are stronger and have more room for air space. They are easier and less expensive to build than traditional greenhouses.
The Gothic arch design is well-known for its ability to withstand high winds and snowfall. The roof’s half-teardrop shape is perfect for letting snow and rain fall easily and preventing damage from heavy precipitation or residue buildup.
The Gothic greenhouse doesn’t require any structural beams because of its arched roof. In addition to lowering costs, this method speeds up and simplifies construction while using fewer materials.
Free DIY Gothic Arch Greenhouse Plan by Bountea
Coming across the perfect gothic arch greenhouse plan might be tricky, but we’ve got you covered. This free one by Bountea lists out everything you’ll need along with step-by-step instructions to help you build the gothic greenhouse of your dreams.
Get it for free here.
7. Geodome Greenhouses
DIY Geodome Greenhouse by Northern Homestead
Geodome greenhouses are a unique and eye-catching way to grow plants in your backyard. They are constructed from curved panels that form a dome shape, providing plenty of space for plants to thrive. The geodome design is also incredibly strong and can withstand heavy winds and snowfall.
The curved panels provide excellent insulation, allowing the greenhouse to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Free DIY Geodome Greenhouse Plan by Instructables
This free geodome greenhouse plan from Instructables is a great way to get started with this unique design. It includes detailed instructions and illustrations, as well as a list of materials you’ll need to complete the project.
Get it for free here.
DIY Geodome Greenhouse Plan by Northern Homestead
Using this plan, you can construct a geodome greenhouse that is lightweight yet secure, absorbs a great deal of light, has a large amount of growing space on the ground, and makes quite an impression. You can build it with the help of a materials list, a tools list, written instructions, diagrams, and pictures that are included in this free DIY greenhouse plan.
Get it for free here.
- Gardens
- Container Gardens
- Herb Gardens
- Organic Gardens
- Plant Disease
- Tomato Gardens
- Urban Gardens
- Vegetable Gardens
- Wild Birds
- Indoor Gardens
- Greenhouses
- Houseplants
- Hydroponics
- Indoor Gardening
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert in gardening and greenhouse construction, I can provide you with information on all the concepts mentioned in this article. Let's dive into each concept:
Gardens
Gardens are outdoor spaces where plants, flowers, and vegetables are cultivated. They can be designed and organized in various ways, such as container gardens, herb gardens, organic gardens, vegetable gardens, and tomato gardens. Each type of garden has its own unique characteristics and requirements.
Container Gardens
Container gardens are a type of gardening where plants are grown in containers instead of directly in the ground. This method is ideal for small spaces, balconies, or areas with poor soil quality. It allows for flexibility in plant selection and placement, as containers can be easily moved.
Herb Gardens
Herb gardens are specifically dedicated to growing herbs, which are plants used for culinary, medicinal, or aromatic purposes. Common herbs include basil, rosemary, thyme, and mint. Herb gardens can be grown in containers, raised beds, or directly in the ground.
Organic Gardens
Organic gardens are cultivated without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Instead, organic gardeners rely on natural methods to nourish and protect their plants, such as composting, crop rotation, and companion planting. Organic gardening promotes soil health and biodiversity.
Plant Disease
Plant diseases are conditions caused by pathogens, such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, or pests, that affect the health and growth of plants. Common plant diseases include powdery mildew, blight, and root rot. Proper plant care, including regular monitoring, good sanitation practices, and appropriate watering and fertilization, can help prevent and manage plant diseases.
Tomato Gardens
Tomato gardens are specifically dedicated to growing tomatoes, which are popular fruits used in various culinary dishes. Tomatoes require full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering. There are different varieties of tomatoes, including determinate and indeterminate types, each with its own growth habit and fruiting characteristics.
Urban Gardens
Urban gardens are gardens created in urban areas, such as rooftops, balconies, or community spaces. They allow city dwellers to grow their own food, beautify their surroundings, and connect with nature. Urban gardens often utilize vertical gardening techniques, container gardening, and hydroponics to maximize limited space.
Vegetable Gardens
Vegetable gardens are dedicated to growing a variety of vegetables for personal consumption. They can range in size from small raised beds to larger plots. Vegetable gardens require proper soil preparation, regular watering, and pest management. They provide a sustainable source of fresh produce and promote self-sufficiency.
Wild Birds
Wild birds are non-domesticated birds that live in natural habitats. They play a crucial role in pollination, seed dispersal, and insect control. Creating bird-friendly environments in gardens, such as providing bird feeders, bird baths, and native plants, can attract a diverse range of bird species and contribute to their conservation.
Indoor Gardens
Indoor gardens are created inside buildings, such as homes or offices, where natural light may be limited. They often utilize artificial lighting, such as grow lights, to provide the necessary light spectrum for plant growth. Indoor gardens can include a variety of plants, from decorative houseplants to edible herbs and vegetables.
Greenhouses
Greenhouses are structures designed to provide controlled environments for plant growth. They allow gardeners to extend the growing season, protect plants from extreme weather conditions, and create optimal growing conditions. Greenhouses can be built in various styles, such as lean-to, barn-style, A-frame, gable, Quonset, gothic arch, and geodome.
Houseplants
Houseplants are plants grown indoors for decorative purposes. They can improve indoor air quality, add beauty to living spaces, and provide a sense of well-being. Common houseplants include pothos, snake plant, peace lily, and spider plant. Houseplants require proper watering, light, and humidity levels to thrive.
Hydroponics
Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil. Instead, plants are grown in a nutrient-rich water solution. This technique allows for precise control over plant nutrition and eliminates the need for traditional soil-based gardening. Hydroponics is often used in indoor gardening and commercial agriculture.
Indoor Gardening
Indoor gardening refers to the practice of growing plants indoors, typically in containers or hydroponic systems. It allows individuals to enjoy gardening year-round, regardless of climate or available outdoor space. Indoor gardening can include a wide range of plants, from ornamental flowers to edible herbs and vegetables.
I hope this information helps you understand the concepts mentioned in the article. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!
