Key Takeaways

  • Mini greenhouses offer the same satisfaction of growing plants on a smaller scale and allow year-round gardening without worrying about changing seasons.
  • Egg cartons, plastic cups, plastic containers, and even mason jars can be transformed into mini greenhouses with simple DIY techniques.
  • Utilizing bubble wrap, clear plastic sheets, picture frames, and PVC pipes can also create mini greenhouses that are functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Do you love the appeal of greenhouses brimming with lush green foliage and colorful blooms but lack the space? Mini greenhouses can satiate your longing for building a greenhouse as they offer the same satisfaction of growing beautiful plants, just on a smaller scale.

Mini indoor greenhouses also allow you to garden throughout the year without worrying about the changing seasons. So, if you are excited about starting your minuscule greenhouse, discover the best ones you can DIY yourself and get started!

Egg Cartons

pepper plants growing in an egg carton
Image credits: Shaun Roy via Canva

Put your cardboard egg cartons to good use! Trim the top off your cardboard egg carton and cut the sides and middle sections to make them fit into the clear plastic tray. This should allow the domed cover to close properly. Next, punch a hole at the bottom of each section for easy drainage. Rest the carton in the plastic tray to catch any extra water. Fill each section with potting soil, plant your seeds, and water them.

Make sure to close the dome and put your mini greenhouse in a sunny spot. Continue to water as needed to keep the soil moist. Once the seedlings are big enough, they're ready to be moved to your garden.

Rack Greenhouse With Lightrack greenhouse with light

To create a stylish indoor greenhouse, think about making a wooden rack with built-in lighting. This setup offers your plants an excellent environment to grow.

Another option is to use your existing rack shelves. Just add a light fixture where you want it, and then arrange your plants below. This way, you don't have to build a rack from scratch, and your plants still get the light they need to thrive.

Plastic Cups

Transform your plastic cups into clever mini greenhouses for your plants. Just flip them over on top of plastic plant pots and saucers.

The trapped warmth and moisture from the soil create the perfect conditions for strong roots and lush leaves, promoting healthy growth. To make it even better, pick pots or saucers with drainage holes and set them on a larger tray. This way, you can water your plants from below without removing the plastic covers.

For an eco-friendly choice, consider using biodegradable plastic that remains intact during the growing season and fully decomposes within one to two years when composted. This not only supports sustainability but also benefits the ecosystem.

Mini Lantern

Mini lanterns are usually made up of metal frames with glass sides. While they are designed to hold candles, you can instead place a small potted plant in the lantern.

The small size of the lantern makes it convenient for placing on windowsills, shelves, or any other small places. Since the lantern has glass sides, light can reach your tiny plant and help it flourish.

Bubble Wrap

greenhouse on the balcony made of plastic packaging and bubble wrap

Another great trick to create a mini greenhouse is by using bubble wrap. You need to wrap the bubble wrap around your cage, leaving some space for air circulation. Bubble wraps are great insulators and can help maintain warmth inside the mini greenhouse. This is perfect for plants that need a little extra heat during cooler months.

To ensure proper air circulation, it is important to leave a slight gap between the ground and the bottom of the makeshift greenhouse. This will help optimize the overall environment for plant growth.

Bubble wraps also come in different sizes and thicknesses, making it easy to customize according to your needs. This solution offers excellent portability. It can be used both indoors and outdoors, allowing for seamless mobility as needed.

Clear Plastic Container

mini greenhouse in a plastic container
Image credits: halfpoint via Canva

With some creativity, you can turn a clear plastic container into a mini greenhouse. Cut a few holes in the bottom of the container for drainage and place it on top of a saucer or plate. Then, fill the container with potting soil and your favorite plants.

You can cover the container with a plastic sheet or wrap it to add warmth and humidity. Just be sure to provide ventilation by opening the cover on warm days. With a little effort, you can create a petite greenhouse that is perfect for starting seeds or caring for delicate plants.

Plastic Sheet

You can also utilize plastic sheets to construct your very own DIY greenhouse. All you need are basic supplies such as your favorite potted plants and a collection of wooden sticks. Take your time to shape the sticks into the desired form carefully. Once the stakes are securely in place, it's time to build the enclosure. Gently wrap the plastic sheet around both your plants and the structure you've created.

Plastic Bottles

Green seedling plants growing in recycled plastic bottles
Image credits: MLPics via Shutterstock

Do you want an effortless way to create an indoor greenhouse? If so, why not use a plastic bottle? This simple project can be completed in just a few minutes using a recycled plastic bottle and a sharp knife.

To get started, cut the bottom off of a plastic bottle and remove the cap. You now have a mini "greenhouse" that is perfect for starting seedlings or propagating cuttings. Just place your plants inside, and screw on the top cap to create a humid, warm environment.

Mason Jars

garden inside mason jar
Image credits: Neirfy via Shutterstock

A mason jar greenhouse is an ideal mini greenhouse. You can create a mini greenhouse perfect for starting seeds or propagating plants with a few supplies. And because mason jars are transparent, they let in plenty of light, which is essential for healthy plant growth.

Picture Frames

greenhouse with wheatgrass
Image credits: Pixelshot via Canva

You can reuse old picture frames to make beautiful and functional greenhouses. To get started, arrange the frames on a table or countertop to create a mini enclosure, gluing them in place. Then, line the inside of the frames with clear plastic sheeting or window film to create a waterproof barrier.

Once done, fill the enclosure with your chosen plants and enjoy your indoor greenhouse. Not only will this project add life and color to your home, but it's also a great way to recycle old materials.

PVC Pipes

mini greenhouse made of PVC pipes
Image credits: v_zaitsev via Canva

A DIY PVC pipe greenhouse is a great option. To successfully complete this project, gather the necessary tools and materials, such as PVC pipes, fittings, and plastic sheeting. Once you have everything, construct an enclosure using the PVC pipes and carefully wrap the plastic sheeting around it. Your very own DIY greenhouse is ready.

Tiny But Mighty

Mini greenhouses are a fantastic way to recycle and get creative to transform them into works of art. They occupy little space but harbor tons of potential to be the centerpieces of your home.

Have you tried growing a mini greenhouse in your home? If not, it's the time to bring these mighty miniatures to life.