Try These Mini-Greenhouse Ideas to Grow Plants Indoors

by Allan Wulff, MBA. Ph.D. 06/11/2023

Whether you're gardening in the winter or protecting delicate houseplants, indoor greenhouses are an excellent solution. You can find miniature greenhouses meant purely for utility and others meant to provide aesthetic appeal. If you build your own mini-greenhouse, it's up to you. Here are some ideas for simple mini-greenhouses to use indoors.

Plastic Bin Greenhouse

For a convenient, affordable and easy-to-make mini-greenhouse, all you need is a clear plastic storage bin. The size of bin you choose should correspond with the type of plants you want to grow in your mini-greenhouse. Most plastic storage bins are rectangular and can be set up on their side to accommodate taller, larger plants. Use a drill, jigsaw, dremel or hot knife to make holes in the lid of the bin for air flow. Place your new mini-greenhouse in a sunny spot or under an LED grow lamp for easier photosynthesis.

Upcycled Picture Frame Greenhouse

For a much smaller mini-greenhouse, try making a terrarium -style container using picture frames. You can use vintage frames for a funky, eclectic aesthetic as long as they're the correct size. Otherwise, simple rectangular picture frames can be found at most dollar stores. Take them apart so you only have the frame itself and the glass pane. Then, using hot glue or other strong adhesive, connect the frames into a box shape. There are many different design options to choose from, including those with hinged doors and some that are open to the air at the top. Regardless, your smaller plants will be protected and stylish.

Upgraded Display Cabinet Greenhouse

Converting a glass display cabinet into a greenhouse is a hot trend among houseplant enthusiasts. While a more expensive option, it's simple to build and makes a stunning aesthetic statement in any room. Use LED light strips on the top of the cabinet and the bottom of each shelf to provide light for the plants. For extra humidity and temperature control, add weather stripping to the edges. This way, you can create a functional and beautiful mini-greenhouse that also serves as eye-catching décor.

There are many ways to build a DIY greenhouse of any size. However, if you're interested in creating a greenhouse to use indoors, these options are a great place to begin.

About the Author
Author

Allan Wulff, MBA. Ph.D.

Hello and thank you for visiting! Selling or buying real estate is very serious business! I provide extraordinary results! Prior to real estate I was President/CEO of a number of area technology companies, Vice-Chairman of the INOVA Hospital Association and have been a long time member of the Association for Corporate Growth. With a broker’s training and experience, you get more than just a realtor agent. My negotiating skills and astute problem solving capabilities, honed by executive experience, have proved extremely effective for my clients in achieving their dreams and real estate goals in this current complex and fast paced market. As a long time Northern Virginia resident my experience will benefit you whether you are buying a home or selling a home or are a returning client checking out the many homeowner resources my associates and I offer. Buying a home? I look forward to helping you select the home of your dreams by taking time to listen to your needs and desires. Selling a home? My real estate expertise and many effective marketing programs will give you the exposure and edge you need to sell your home quickly for top dollar. Testimonials. I appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve you and hope you take advantage of the valuable resources I provide. Come back to visit often! I consider this community an excellent place to reside and would love to share with you my enthusiasm for the many neighborhoods in the area. I pride myself on providing unparalleled service and look forward to developing a long-term relationship with you. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss how I can best assist you with your real estate goals. Sincerely, Allan Wulff