Eight of the best indoor greenhouses

Small indoor greenhouses can also be used nurture seedlings until they're large enough to plant outdoors, extend your growing season and allow you to broaden the types of plants you can raise.

Because of their size, mini indoor greenhouses may be a good option for new gardeners who don't have the space or money to invest in a more traditional, large, outdoor greenhouse.

In our pick of the best indoor greenhouses we have curated a mix of different styles, sizes and price points to illustrate what's available. We have also included some models that are suitable for use on balconies and terraces to help you make the most of whatever space you have.

For those who do have space for an outdoor greenhouse, we have advice on how to choose the best greenhouse, along with suggestions on all the useful greenhouse accessories you may need.

Or, if you would prefer to make your own, take a look at our guide on how to make a mini greenhouse.

Types of indoor greenhouses and what to grow in an indoor greenhouse

Indoor greenhouses are typically made from one of two materials; glass or plastic. Plastic greenhouses tend to be cheaper and more flimsy but can be used in sheltered outdoor locations such as balconies, patios and terraces.

Glass indoor greenhouses will be heavier, last longer and are more pleasing on the eye. Most glass structures are also small enough to fit on shelving or in the middle of a table as a decorative feature. They should be placed in a location that gets good sunlight and the best indoor greenhouses will come fitted with a removable drip tray to prevent overwatering.

What you should grow in your greenhouse does depend on how big it is. Growing herbs such as basil and coriander is a good starting point if you only have space for a miniature indoor greenhouse and they can be used in a variety of recipes.

In winter months, indoor greenhouses can be used to protect tender flowers and plants. Avoid any plants that grow too big and choose plants that will enjoy being inside. These could include tomatoes and chillies, and flowers such as African violets and begonias.

Eight of the best mini indoor greenhouses

Struggling to grow plants without a garden? Browse our selection of the best mini indoor greenhouses below.

Small in size, the Socker Greenhouse should fit on most windowsills or shelves. The roof unfastens and fully folds out to make it easy to access and water the plants. Available in white, this indoor greenhouse has plastic windows and a modern and simple finish.

Dimensions: 46 x 22 x 35cm

Price: £12

Buy IKEA Socker Indoor Greenhouse at IKEA

Made from natural-lacquered ash wood and glass, this greenhouse has a removable galvanized steel base for quick access to the plants. Suitable for indoor use only.

Dimensions: 48 x 24 x 34cm

Price: £2o9

Buy Nordic Nest Mini Greenhouse at Nordic Nest

With a black, thin iron frame and glass panes, this indoor greenhouse has a tall roof and elegant design. Suitable for indoor use only.

Dimensions: 13 x 30 x 38cm

Price: £59

Buy Ama Greenhouse at Trouva

The Leonardo Mini Greenhouse has an adjustable glass lid and a drip tray to protect the plants against overwatering. It's UV-resistant and free UK delivery is included in the price.

Dimensions: 46 x 20 x 33cm

Price: £99.99

Buy Leonardo Mini Greenhouse at Wayfair

Handmade from recycled glass and metal, this has an attractive triangular design. The front glass panel is hinged to allow quick and easy access and it's best suited to housing succulents or air plants (Tillandsia).

Dimensions: 26 x 27 x 19cm

Price: £44.95

Buy Paper High Recycled Glass Greenhouse Terrarium at Not on the High Street

Features of this small greenhouse include a UV resistant plastic cover, front double zippers for easy watering, and an epoxy-coated steel frame. Easily taken apart when not in use and stored flat, it's best suited to use on a balcony or patio.

Dimensions: 50 x 70 x 92cm

Price: £20.39

Buy Verdemax Azalea Greenhouse at Amazon

This mini greenhouse has an elevated floor and a zippered cover that's constructed from waterproof transparent plastic. It's suitable for use on a balcony, but small enough for use indoor if preferred.

Dimensions: 43 x 26 x 30cm

Price: £35.26

Buy Zenport Balcony Greenhouse at Amazon

Planty Places Solid Wood Greenhouse

The transparent frame inserts of this mini greenhouse are made from shatterproof polycarbonate glass for durability and are fitted inside a solid pine wood frame. A food-safe plastic tray is included to protect the wood and can be planted directly in or used as a drip tray.

Dimensions: 58 x 24 x 30cm

Price: £78.88

Buy Planty Places Solid Wood Greenhouse at Etsy

This Product Guide was last updated in November 2020 and we apologise if anything has changed in price or availability.