How to Build a Greenhouse Kit

You’ll need a flat, level surface on which to build your greenhouse. This can either be directly on grass or on a concrete foundation. Don’t attempt to raise up your greenhouse on concrete blocks—it won’t be sturdy enough. Lay out the base pieces in the desired location and confirm that they’re level.

Assemble the base pieces of your greenhouse kit and secure with the screws provided. Attach vertical corner supports to each of the four greenhouse corners.

Attach the taller back vertical supports, then the back horizontal and angled supports. (These should point downward in a V shape.) You may need someone to help hold up the pieces at this stage.

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As with the back, attach the front vertical supports first, then screw in the front horizontal and angled supports.

Slide the wall panels into the slots in the frame. Attach the side supports across the top of the panels. Screw in the top horizontal joists and gutters. You will now have roughly a box, with an opening where the door will be.

Assemble the roof trusses. This is easier to do with pieces first laid out flat on the ground. Then slide the trusses into the greenhouse walls. Install the center support beam (also known as a ridgeboard) where it meets at the roof’s peak.

Screw in the three rafter pieces. The short horizontal piece is for the vent panel. This panel can be placed at any of the four corners—it’s up to you. Slide in the ceiling panels and secure. Next, install the venting latch on the small panel.

Slide the door pieces together on the ground, then attach the door and hinges onto the greenhouse frame. The door can be installed to open on the right or the left, depending on your preference. Screw on door hardware.

Attach any finishing hardware to the greenhouse, like the corner caps. Use the manufacturer’s anchoring kit (sold separately at Target, $70) to secure the greenhouse into the ground with the stakes provided. Use a rubber mallet to tap the stakes if you are having trouble driving them. Anchoring is a necessary safety step to prevent your greenhouse from being damaged or blowing away in inclement weather.

If desired, add accessories designed to go with your greenhouse, such as a wall shelf kit or drip irrigation system. Make it your own with a potting bench and stool or weather-friendly storage bins.

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