My Backyard Greenhouse 8 Years Later

When we purchased the Harbor Freight 6×8 greenhouse back 8 years ago we weren’t sure how long it would last. We spent around $250 on this little backyard greenhouse and based on that I really think it’s done a good job for what it is. It can be assembled in a weekend and you can go ahead and start growing pretty quickly.

What I’ve learned over the years is that you can never have enough space in the greenhouse. No matter what size you have you will probably want more room. If I were to do it all over again I would build one myself rather than buy a kit but I think having the greenhouse kit and working with it over the years has given me an insight into what improvements I would make.

Backyard Greenhouse Kit Issues

Here are some of the issues I’ve noticed in the greenhouse over the years:

• The clips don’t always hold the panels in place. If wind gets in the greenhouse through the door or vents the panels can pop out.
• There are air gaps around the panels. The air gaps allow heat to escape faster when the temperatures drop.
• It didn’t come with any automatic venting. Venting can be purchased separately but would be nice to have that from the start.

My Backyard Greenhouse, 8 Years Later

To see more of how the greenhouse has done and how I have it organized check out this video below. I also talk about some growing tips in the greenhouse, using 1020 flats, coir pots, and some other tips that can help you even if you don’t have a greenhouse.

A Few Backyard Greenhouse Growing Tips

• Locate your greenhouse lengthwise going east to west. That maximizes your sunlight.
• Keep your flats and pots close by for planting.
• Have a system of organization for growing from seeds than transferring to other plant shelves for growing on to larger plants.
• Find a way to irrigate efficiently.
• Make sure you have good drainage in the floor area. My greenhouse has a gravel base and stepping stones for the “walking area.”
• Plan your greenhouse for larger than you need. Inevitably you will need the extra space, even if it becomes storage for pots.