What types of garden greenhouses are there?

Want to sow, propagate, and harvest as much as possible this summer? With a garden greenhouse, you extend the growing season, protect young plants from wind and rain, and create a more stable climate for vegetables and herbs. This often means you can start earlier in spring and keep growing well into autumn. There are different greenhouse types: from compact propagation greenhouses for seedlings to spacious hobby greenhouses where you can even set up a small seating area. The best choice depends on your available space, your goals (growing, overwintering, harvesting), and the materials you prefer (glass or polycarbonate, wood or aluminium). Below you’ll find a clear overview of the most common greenhouse types and their pros and cons.

What types of garden greenhouses are there?

At Doika, you’ll find, among others, lean-to greenhouses, tunnel greenhouses (film), propagation/mini greenhouses, and larger hobby greenhouses. Each type serves a different purpose: saving space, growing as affordably as possible, or overwintering plants as comfortably as possible. Understanding these differences makes it easier to choose a greenhouse that fits your garden and how you like to grow.

The hobby greenhouse

A hobby greenhouse is ideal for dedicated garden lovers. You typically get plenty of room for a larger vegetable setup, and some people even use the greenhouse as an extra place to sit. Thanks to the height and internal volume, the climate inside can feel pleasantly stable, which supports healthy plant growth. In winter, it can also be surprisingly mild inside. Hobby greenhouses are usually made of wood or aluminium and are commonly finished with glass or polycarbonate.

Advantages

• Lots of space for different plants and crops.
• Multi-purpose: can often double as a garden room.
• Suitable for keeping and growing tropical plants.
• Sensitive plants can overwinter well in a greenhouse.

Disadvantages

• Takes up more space and is often more expensive to buy.
• Assembly usually takes some time.
• A foundation is often recommended or required.

The lean-to greenhouse

A lean-to greenhouse is placed against a straight, sturdy wall. This helps you use garden space efficiently and often keeps the greenhouse conveniently close to the house. That makes watering and daily maintenance easier. The wall can also store heat, which may benefit the greenhouse climate. Ideally, place a lean-to greenhouse against an east- or west-facing wall to help limit overheating.

Advantages

• Takes up less space than a freestanding greenhouse.
• Often close to the house: practical in daily use.
• Plants can climb easily (e.g., cucumbers and tomatoes).

Disadvantages

• You need a solid, suitable wall.
• Typically less light than in a freestanding greenhouse.
• A foundation is often needed for a stable installation.

The film greenhouse or tunnel

A film greenhouse or film tunnel is simple and popular if you want to start affordably. It consists of a frame with transparent film that lets sunlight through and retains warmth. Thanks to the tall, rounded shape, this type works well for upright crops such as tomatoes and cucumbers, and you can grow multiple rows side by side. This makes tunnels especially attractive for seasonal growing.

Advantages

• Usually a budget-friendly choice.
• In many cases, no foundation is required.
• Relatively quick to set up and take down.

Disadvantages

• Film generally lasts less long than glass or polycarbonate.
• Can be more sensitive to wind and sometimes lets in less light.
• Less suitable for year-round use.

The propagation greenhouse

A propagation greenhouse (or mini greenhouse) is designed for raising seeds, cuttings, and young plants. It shields plants from wind and rain and creates a warmer microclimate so they grow faster and stronger. Ideal for building up sturdy plants before moving them outdoors into open ground.

Advantages

• Compact and takes up little space.
• Often an affordable entry option.
• Perfect for sowing, cuttings, and propagation.

Disadvantages

• As plants grow, you often need to pot up or move them.
• Holds fewer plants than a hobby greenhouse or tunnel.

Quick comparison in one table

Which greenhouse fits your situation?

• Limited space (balcony/small garden): choose a propagation greenhouse or a compact lean-to greenhouse.
• Growing and harvesting a lot: a hobby greenhouse or a spacious film tunnel is often the most efficient.
• Overwintering sensitive plants: lean towards a hobby greenhouse with sturdy glazing.
• Budget & temporary: a film tunnel is an accessible starting point.

Buy your garden greenhouse online at Doika

At Doika, you can easily buy an outdoor greenhouse online. Choose the greenhouse that suits you, add it to your cart, and complete your order. We make sure your order is delivered neatly to your home so you can get started quickly. Tip: keep an eye on our promotions—there are regularly attractive deals on greenhouses and garden structures.

Why buy a greenhouse at Doika?

• Easy to use and clearly organised online ordering.
• Fast delivery times and competitive online prices.
• Doika quality label: selected quality products we fully stand behind.

Further reading: helpful articles about greenhouses

Other interesting articles:

• Greenhouse foundation: frequently asked questions
• Build a foundation for your greenhouse yourself (and optional foundations)
• Everything about the glass in your greenhouse
• Assembly videos for the Popular greenhouse series
• Assembly videos for the Qube greenhouse series

Frequently asked questions about greenhouse types

What is the difference between a greenhouse and a glasshouse?

In everyday language, “greenhouse” and “glasshouse” are often used interchangeably. In most cases, both refer to a light-transmitting structure that protects plants and extends the growing season. The difference is usually regional preference rather than functionality.

How do I choose the right greenhouse type for my garden?

The right greenhouse depends on your available space, how intensively you want to grow, and whether you want to overwinter plants. Compact propagation greenhouses or lean-to models work well for smaller gardens, while hobby greenhouses or tunnels are better if you want more room for growing and harvesting.

Do I always need a foundation for a greenhouse?

That depends on the greenhouse type and your ground surface. Larger greenhouses often benefit from a stable base for safety and long-term durability, while film tunnels and compact propagation models can often work without a fixed foundation.

Is polycarbonate better than glass?

That depends on your preference and how you’ll use the greenhouse. Glass offers a classic look and high light transmission, while polycarbonate is typically more impact-resistant and practical in changing weather conditions.

Which greenhouse is best for a small garden or balcony?

If space is limited, compact propagation greenhouses or lean-to models are often the best choice. They take up little room while still providing a sheltered spot for sowing and raising young plants.

Our expertise & reliability

Doika combines practical experience with clear product information to help gardeners choose with confidence. The range includes carefully selected greenhouses and garden structures for different spaces and experience levels. With reliable delivery, transparent service, and a focus on quality, Doika builds trust for customers who want to sow, grow, and harvest sustainably.

Conclusion

There are different types of garden greenhouses, each with its own benefits—from compact propagation options to spacious hobby greenhouses and practical lean-to models. Choose based on your available space, your growing plans, and the level of comfort you want. Ready to find your ideal greenhouse? Explore the range in our collection greenhouses and garden structures.