7 Easy Mini Greenhouses You Can Use Anywhere, Anytime
Starting seeds can be tough without the right setup, especially in colder months, but with a mini greenhouse, you can create the right conditions in just about any space. You don't need a big yard or a fancy setup. These ideas use materials you likely already have (or can get very cheap). Whether you're starting herbs on a windowsill or prepping veggies on a porch, these simple miniature greenhouse options help get seeds growing strong.
Plastic Containers
Used salad boxes, bakery containers, and takeout clamshells make for perfect mini greenhouses. They're clear, lightweight, and often come with built-in lids. Just poke a few drainage holes in the bottom and vent holes in the top. Add seed-starting mix, sow your seeds, and snap the lid shut. Set it near a bright window or under a grow light and you're good to go. These are great for beginners and help reduce waste at the same time.
Soda Bottles
A 2-liter soda bottle can turn into a portable seed dome with one quick cut. Remove the label, cut it in half, and plant your seeds in the bottom portion. Use the top half as a lid to trap heat and moisture. It creates a humid microclimate, which helps seeds germinate faster. You can tape the pieces together or leave them loose for easier access. Or, you can use the cut top to cover a seedling that's already in a pot. No matter your method, they're easy to carry and fit well on shelves or counters.
Egg Cartons
Egg cartons make ideal seed trays. Fill each cup with seed-starting mix and place your seeds inside. Then cover the whole thing with plastic wrap or a clear produce bag to create a mini greenhouse effect. The wrap helps trap warmth and moisture. Just remember to poke a few holes in the top so the air can circulate. Once your seedlings sprout, remove the cover to let them breathe and strengthen.
Zip-Loc Bags
For a truly space-saving option, try Zip-Loc bag greenhouses. Place a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag with a few seeds sandwiched between the layers. Seal the bag and tape it to a sunny window. This method is great for kids or anyone testing seed viability. It's not for long-term growing, but it's an easy way to give seeds a strong start before transferring them to pots or containers.
Clear Storage Bin
A clear plastic storage bin with a lid can be turned into a mini greenhouse for multiple seed trays. Set your pots inside, pop the lid on, and place it somewhere warm and bright. This method is especially useful if you're starting several types of seeds at once. As always, poke some holes in the container, preferably along the sides. You can open the lid to adjust humidity or air things out. It’s stackable, reusable, and easy to move if you need to change locations.
If you can't find a container with a clear lid, turn the whole thing upside down and place plants on the bottom of the lid instead, the container itself then placed overtop.
Produce Clamshells
Clamshell containers paired with a heating pad create an ideal mini greenhouse for heat-loving seeds. Many vegetable and flower seeds germinate best with some bottom warmth. Place the clamshell on top of a waterproof seedling heat mat and keep it in a draft-free space. This speeds up sprouting and helps keep the environment stable. Just make sure to monitor moisture closely and vent the lid once the seeds emerge.
Windowsill Setup
This is a bit of a bigger setup, but if you have a sunny window, a small shelf with a plastic covering can become a growing station. Hang clear shower curtains or plastic drop cloths (or a dedicated cover like seen in the photo) around the shelf to hold in warmth and moisture. Keep trays of seedlings on each level you can. This setup lets you start a good number of seeds even in a small apartment. It also keeps things tidy and helps regulate temperature more evenly.
You don't need a garden or any fancy gear to grow strong seedlings. With a little creativity and a few everyday items, you can set up mini greenhouses almost anywhere. They save space, speed up germination, and give your plants a healthier start. Whether you’re growing herbs in a high-rise or prepping spring vegetables early, these setups work just right to get the job done.