Learn how to create a mini indoor greenhouse for your plants with our step-by-step guide.
1. Introduction
Indoor greenhouses are a popular trend that brings life and greenery into your living space. Not only do they create a calming environment and purify the air, but they also provide the perfect microclimate for tropical plants, off-season herbs, and seed sprouting. Whether you choose to DIY your indoor greenhouse or purchase a pre-made kit, there are plenty of options to fit your budget and space. In this article, we will explore 11 AD-approved indoor greenhouse ideas, ranging from repurposed materials to store-bought kits. Additionally, we will address common concerns about which plants thrive best in indoor greenhouses and the need for high-tech setups.
DIY Indoor Greenhouse Ideas
– Using inexpensive picture frames to create a greenhouse
– Repurposing an old curio cabinet
– Utilizing glass-doored IKEA cabinets for greenhouse purposes
– Transforming a decorative lantern into a mini greenhouse
– Creating an indoor herb garden using mason jars
– Building a greenhouse using shelves as the structure
– Converting an old aquarium or fish tank into a greenhouse
– Setting up a terrarium in a glass vessel
– Making a mini greenhouse from repurposed materials
– Purchasing a greenhouse kit or pre-made greenhouse
By exploring these DIY ideas and addressing concerns about plant selection and technical setups, you can create a thriving indoor greenhouse that adds beauty and tranquility to your home.
2. Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
– Six inexpensive picture frames
– Hot glue gun
– Paint
– Old curio cabinet
– Plastic lining
– Grow lights
– Glass-doored IKEA cabinet
– Peel-and-stick wallpaper
– Decorative glass-walled lantern
– Mason jar
– Hydroponic mason jar connector
– Metal storage utility rack or wooden, bamboo, or wire shelves
– Plastic sheeting or cloche
– Aquarium or fish tank
– Plexiglass top
– Pebbles
– Fast-draining soil
– Activated charcoal
– Moss
– Potting soil
– Glass vessel
– Apothecary jar, cloche, or glass cookie jar
– Plastic or glass containers
– Salad containers, two-liter soda bottles, or glass pasta sauce jars
– Terrarium accessories (e.g. clay creatures, tiny gnomes, model mushrooms)
– Mini greenhouse kit or pre-made greenhouse
Tools:
– Screwdriver
– Paintbrush
– Spray paint
– Mod Podge
– Metal screw-in hooks
– Metal light fixture chain
– Mechanical outlet timer
– Funnel
– Long tweezers
– Hot glue
– Scissors
– LED grow lights
– Hygrometer
– Automatic humidifier
– Electric water pump
3. Building the Structure
DIY Picture Frame Greenhouse
To build the DIY picture frame greenhouse, start by heading to your favorite discount or craft store to score six inexpensive picture frames. Use four of the frames to construct the base and two for the roof. Using a hot glue gun, glue together four frames end-to-end in a rectangular shape. Then, create a slanted roof by gluing the remaining picture frames on top of the rectangular box coming to a point.
Take it to the next level: Start the project off by removing the glass from the frames and painting each frame with two coats of paint. Using a hot glue gun, glue the glass back in place and let it thoroughly dry before building the greenhouse.
Repurposed Materials Greenhouse
A mini greenhouse can be made from a variety of repurposed materials such as clear salad containers, plastic containers, two-liter soda bottles, or glass pasta sauce jars. These types of greenhouses are particularly good for emulating the ideal growing conditions for sprouting seeds. Think outside the box to figure out the best use for your container.
Take it to the next level: Make someone’s mind bend as they figure out how you created a mini-jungle inside of a narrow-necked plastic or glass bottle (like a ship in a bottle). To do this, use a funnel to lay down pebbles, soil, etc.; and then with long tweezers, carefully root the plants by moving them through the slim opening of the bottle.
Lists:
– DIY Picture Frame Greenhouse
– Repurposed Materials Greenhouse
4. Adding the Greenhouse Cover
Now that you have your greenhouse structure in place, it’s time to add the cover. This can be done using a variety of materials, depending on the type of greenhouse you’ve chosen to create. Here are a few options to consider:
Plastic Sheeting
One of the most common and cost-effective options for covering your indoor greenhouse is using plastic sheeting. This can be easily attached to the frame using clips or adhesive, and provides a clear, waterproof barrier to create the ideal environment for your plants.
Glass Panes
If you’re looking for a more permanent and aesthetically pleasing option, glass panes can be used to cover your indoor greenhouse. This will provide a more polished and sophisticated look, but may require more effort and expertise to install.
Mesh or Netting
For a more breathable and lightweight option, consider using mesh or netting to cover your greenhouse. This can be especially useful if you’re growing plants that require more ventilation, or if you’re concerned about pests getting into your greenhouse.
Once you’ve chosen the type of cover you’d like to use, carefully and securely attach it to your greenhouse structure. Make sure to seal any gaps or openings to maintain the humidity and temperature levels inside the greenhouse. With the cover in place, your indoor greenhouse is ready to start nurturing your plants and creating a green oasis in your home.
5. Maintaining the Mini Indoor Greenhouse
Maintaining a mini indoor greenhouse requires regular care and attention to ensure the health and growth of your plants. Here are some tips for maintaining your indoor greenhouse:
Regular watering:
Plants in indoor greenhouses may require more frequent watering due to the higher humidity levels. Monitor the soil moisture and water your plants as needed to keep the soil damp but not waterlogged.
Pruning and grooming:
Regularly prune and groom your plants to remove dead or yellowing leaves, promote healthy growth, and prevent overcrowding. This will also help improve air circulation within the greenhouse.
Pest control:
Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites, which can thrive in the humid environment of an indoor greenhouse. Inspect your plants regularly and take necessary measures to control and prevent pest infestations.
Monitoring environmental conditions:
Monitor the temperature, humidity, and light levels within your indoor greenhouse to ensure they are suitable for the plants you are growing. Make adjustments as needed to create the ideal growing environment for your plants.
Fertilizing:
Provide your plants with the necessary nutrients by fertilizing them regularly. Choose a fertilizer that is suitable for the types of plants you are growing and follow the recommended application guidelines.
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your mini indoor greenhouse continues to thrive and bring life into your home.
Creating a mini indoor greenhouse is a simple and rewarding project that can be done with minimal materials and space. By following the steps and using the right tools, anyone can enjoy the benefits of growing their own plants indoors.