Small Greenhouse Made From Old Antique Windows

3 Hours
Medium
We have a pretty long growing season here in South Carolina, but I wanted to be able to get a jumpstart on lettuce, broccoli, spinach and other early vegetables. We decided to use some antique windows that we had to create a basic greenhouse. We built a frame with an angled top, on the back of my workshop. We chose cypress lumber because it will last in the elements for a long time. Once the "box" was built, we hinged four windows across the top that open and close for access. We also ran a water line down to my shop and attached a hose, which makes it very convenient to water my seedlings. There isn't anything fancy, just simply using the warmth of the sun to provide an environment that is protected from late frosts. The greenhouse does not get direct morning or afternoon sun.
greenhouse from old windows
Adina Johnson @ Simply Country Life
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  • Alex JC Bettencourtt Alex JC Bettencourtt on Mar 17, 2017
    Where can I find the steps & measurements used for this? Also, Instead of eggshells try toilet paper rolls. Fold the bottom, put in dirt & seed, and plant the whole thing when the plant has sprouted.
  • Pip Pip on May 21, 2018

    Do you have a problem with critters eating your veggies?

  • Diane Payne Diane Payne on Dec 29, 2021

    What size hinges were used?

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  • Shannon Stafford Shannon Stafford on Aug 06, 2020

    I made a smaller version of this but having issues finding the right hinges to adhere my window to the project. I'll attempt to use it with cherry trees grown from seeds we ate from the grocery. Allowing them to go into dormancy is a necessity.


    1. 24"Hx29"x19
    2. Used Circular Saw
    3. Old bed slats
    4. Purchased window for $10
    5. Replacement glass pane $4.xx
    6. Solid board $10 (HomeDepot)
    7. Grip Right Exterior Screws $5
    8. Drill gun
    9. Hinges (?)
    10. May add handles on the side.



  • What a great project. I still have a lot of old windows in my barn. Will build this little greenhouse soon. Can I use the last image in a post on my blog?

    Best regards Karl Heinz

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