Author: Kim Dirk

Do you long to grow hothouse plants but don't have a back yard? Maybe you should think about getting an indoor greenhouse. If your home is an apartment, the benefits of an indoor greenhouse are quite apparent. But even gardeners with yards can find uses for an indoor greenhouse.

A real benefit is the lower expense involved. Even a simple lean-to greenhouse shed is more costly to build than a small indoor unit. It's not that difficult to build a greenhouse in your own home with supplies that are readily available at any home improvement outlet.

Or maybe you want an indoor greenhouse, but aren't interested in building one from scratch. Well, you're in luck, because you can buy an indoor greenhouse kit. You can get these in various styles and brand names. You can get them at a department store, a garden center, or an online retailer.

Indoor greenhouse kits range from a tiny herb garden that you can keep on your countertop to a kit capable of turning your basement's shelving unit into a hothouse.

If this isn't enough to meet your needs, it's possible to make a basic homemade greenhouse at very little cost. You'll need to start by constructing a freestanding shelving unit of up to four shelves. You will need to attach it securely to the floor.

Next, there needs to be a way to retain the moisture and heat that you have provided. This can be accomplished by using sheets of plastic or an old shower curtain to cover the shelves, and sealing them with duct tape. You can heat your greenhouse by buying a heating pad and laying it on the floor. Set up a thermometer and check it frequently to monitor the temperature.

Place a cup of water in your greenhouse to provide the humidity your plants need. The plants will require light, and you can provide this with a simple fluorescent light. But you should really consider purchasing a specially designed grow light that will help your plants thrive. A basic unit is relatively inexpensive.

Next you need some soil-filled containers to set your plants in. Set them on the shelving unit and give them a drink of water. Now sit back and admire your do-it-yourself greenhouse that does the job just as well as a kit.

These are general guidelines, and you can add to them with your own ideas and preferences. You will most certainly end up with an indoor greenhouse that's perfect for you, whether you buy or build.

Greenhouses are easy to build and maintain, and are available in an assortment of sizes and materials to suit every home and budget. You can even get an indoor greenhouse if you don't have a backyard. Learn more at  Garden Greenhouses.