Choosing a Greenhouse or Raised Garden

If you like to garden but aren't fortunate enough to live in a climate where you're guaranteed year-round sun and rain in just the right amounts, or you just want to protect plants from wind, frost, snow, insects, birds and other pests, then you may be looking for a greenhouse or raised garden. Every conceivable shape, size and budget is available, from a tent-shaped starterhouse or flowerhouse to a covered raised garden to a full-sized enclosed greenhouse with locking door. Look for a greenhouse or raised garden that either requires no assembly or is easy to assemble, or in the case of large structures, will not take a whole weekend (though you'll probably want to plan for a weekend so you can include selecting and arranging the plants inside). Your new greenhouse needs to be large enough to hold the plants you intend to grow, as well as shelving and plant stands. Greenhouses should be vented, waterproof when sealed, and have a means to secure in storms or high winds. Generally, thicker polycarbonate wall material and a heavier frame means better construction and longer life. If you're choosing a greenhouse based on budget, you may want to look at greenhouses priced $200-$350 first, then browse up or down from there. You can do that with the filters in the left margin of this page. You'll find our best-rated greenhouses here, and all the greenhouses and raised gardens on sale are here.