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Often, we can only enjoy our favorite flowers, veggies, and herbs for a few months out of the year. However, greenhouses can create a bountiful garden year-round, keeping plants and seedlings cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
There is a wide variety of greenhouse options, from farmhouse-style A-frames to modern geodesic domes. A bonus? They’re a special way to spend time outdoors—and grow unique plants—no matter the weather. Here, we’ve gathered some expert-recommended greenhouse ideas that can accommodate a variety of spaces and flora so you can enjoy gardening rain or shine.
Related: An Underground Greenhouse Is the Secret to Year-Round Gardening—Here’s What to Know
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Victorian-Style Greenhouse
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Victorian-style greenhouses feature intricate ironwork and glass panels, making them a beautiful and practical solution for year-round gardening. “They’re timeless, functional, and evoke that old-world craftsmanship while still feeling luxurious,” says Sara Gatanas, owner of Urban Garden Center.
The combination of materials is also sturdy enough to withstand the elements—and provides optimal growing conditions. “Wood and metal frames offer durability and aesthetic appeal, while glass or polycarbonate panels provide excellent insulation and light transmission,” says Jessica Comerford, garden designer and maintenance program co-manager at Pine House Edible Gardens.
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Tropical Greenhouse
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Greenhouses can house extra warmth and humidity, which is perfect for tropical foliage. “Plants like monstera, anthurium, and alocasia thrive in the humid, controlled environment of a greenhouse, creating a lush, jungle-like escape,” says Gatanas.
You can also plant tropical edible plants in in-ground or raised beds. “Some favorites include ginger, turmeric, cardamom, Kiko’s Crump (South Sea Salad Tree), edamame, and even pineapple,” says Comerford. “We’ve also successfully overwintered peppers a few times, extending their productivity for several seasons.”
Related: 17 Tropical Plants You Can Grow Anywhere
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Seed-Starting Greenhouse
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Greenhouse shelves are perfect for starting seeds ahead of the growing season. Comerford especially enjoys experimenting with unique varieties. “Think specialty winter squashes and peppers from around the world, heirloom tomatoes like Italian winter-hanging varieties, and fun flowers for cutting and arranging with, such as specialty zinnias, cosmos, amaranths, dahlias, scabiosas, and sunflowers,” she says.
Need additional square footage? Comerford suggests using the space beneath the seed-starting shelves to store extra materials, such as soil mix and planting trays.
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Basic Modern Greenhouse
Credit: Deanna Talerico
For ease and versatility, basic can be a boon. “When it comes to urban and suburban settings, I lean towards modern minimalist greenhouses—think polycarbonate panels, steel frames, and smart ventilation systems,” says Gatanas.
“These designs are more energy-efficient, require less maintenance, and fit seamlessly into smaller spaces,” she continues. “Especially backyards, rooftops, or side yards where space constraints, security, and exposure to the elements—like falling tree branches or vandalism—can be a concern.”
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A Greenhouse for Leafy Greens
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While greenhouses are optimal for warm-loving plants, they bode just as well for cool-loving crops. “Leafy greens like lettuce, kale, or bok choy are perfect plants for a greenhouse during cooler seasons,” says Deanna Talerico, garden educator and creator of Homestead and Chill. “They’re compact, tidy, and thrive with the added protection from frost and pests.”
Fast-growing edibles also work well in greenhouses. “[We always have] a plant bench full of microgreens, as they can be planted and harvested within ten days throughout the entire year,” says Mallory Craig, education center manager at The Horticultural Society of New York.
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Lean-To Greenhouse
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Lean-to greenhouses use one of your home’s walls as a support, saving space and creating a lively extension to your abode. “Functionally, I love lean-to greenhouses because they integrate well with homes, using an existing wall for insulation, which helps regulate temperature and provides additional protection from wind damage,” says Gatanas.
These greenhouses can also be more budget-friendly, as they can be DIY-ed or made using kits.
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A-Frame Greenhouse
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Going back to the basics of greenhouse design is a sure way to create a timeless look. “We love a classic, farm-style, A-frame greenhouse that complements the garden—and the home, if it’s nearby,” says Comerford.
An A-frame can be versatile in its aesthetic appeal, too, depending on how it’s constructed. “A wood or metal frame with glass windows can evoke a nostalgic, old-world charm, or take on a sleek, modern twist,” she adds.
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Herb Greenhouse
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With controlled temperature and ventilation, greenhouses make growing herbs easy. “Nothing makes us happier than being able to cook with fresh herbs, and frankly, the supermarket’s herbs are not only expensive, they aren’t always readily available or fresh,” says Gatanas.
To extend their life and maximize harvest, Craig recommends companion planting with herbs. “Growing basil, cilantro, or thyme alongside tomatoes and peppers helps maximize space and improve plant health,” she says.
Related: Use Our Companion Planting Chart to Grow a Thriving Vegetable Garden
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Mediterranean-Style Greenhouse
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Bring a taste of the Mediterranean into your backyard with a warm, sun-soaked greenhouse. “I love growing a mix of edible plants from the Mediterranean—such as fig trees, citrus—like Meyer lemons—and rosemary,” says Gatanas. “Not only do they bring fragrance and beauty to the space, but they also provide fresh fruit and herbs year-round.”
You can also get creative with the design, using features like grapevines and terracotta pots to mimic the aesthetics of a Mediterranean garden.
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She-Shed Greenhouse
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She sheds are petite outdoor structures that are usually used as home offices or art studios. However, they can also be converted into multi-functional greenhouses. “[I] love she shed-style greenhouses that have a seating area and whimsical décor, combining both a beautiful outdoor living area with a functional growing space,” says Talerico.
She-shed greenhouses can be constructed with classic glass panels and metal framing. Polycarbonate is also a smart option, as it’s lightweight, shatter-resistant, and provides better insulation for plants. You can also customize your shed, adding vintage windows and doors for a more playful look.
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