Why Greenhouses Are Booming in Australia
Australian gardeners are embracing greenhouses in a big way, and for good reason. Our climate can be unpredictable—scorching summers, surprise frosts, and everything in between. A greenhouse offers a sheltered, stable growing environment, making it easier to cultivate a wide range of plants.
Whether you live in Perth, Melbourne, or a smaller town like Delacombe or Medowie, a greenhouse can protect your garden from extreme weather, pests, and even curious wildlife. Plus, it extends your growing season, so you’re not restricted to planting only during certain months.
Choosing the Right Greenhouse for Your Space
Not all greenhouses are created equal, and picking the right one comes down to how much space you have, what you want to grow, and how hands-on you want to be.
1. Greenhouse Tents
Greenhouse tents are perfect for renters or beginners. These pop-up structures are lightweight, easy to set up, and ideal for growing herbs, seedlings, and smaller plants. If you're in a suburban backyard in Sydney or Edgecliff, a greenhouse tent might be just the right fit.
2. Walk-In Greenhouses
For serious gardeners or anyone who wants room to move around, walk-in greenhouses are the go-to option. These offer more headroom, shelving space, and better airflow. Whether you’re growing tomatoes, cucumbers, or orchids, a walk-in greenhouse provides ample space and flexibility.
3. Greenhouse Tunnels
Tunnel greenhouses (also called hoop houses) are a popular choice for large-scale or rural gardeners. If you’ve got a bit of land—maybe in Ballarat or Tasmania—a greenhouse tunnel can cover a larger area while still being affordable. They’re often made with metal hoops and a greenhouse plastic sheet that stretches over the frame.
Greenhouse Kits Australia: What to Look For
Greenhouse kits are a fantastic solution for anyone who wants a balance between DIY and convenience. These kits come with pre-cut materials and clear instructions, so you don’t need to be a builder to put one together.
When searching for greenhouse kits Australia, keep the following in mind:
- Size: Measure your available space first. Do you need a compact design or a large greenhouse?
- Materials: Look for UV-resistant greenhouse plastic or polycarbonate panels that can handle the Aussie sun.
- Frame: Steel and aluminium frames are durable and rust-resistant—great for humid or coastal areas like Kirribilli or Perth.
- Ventilation: Make sure your kit includes vents or windows to regulate temperature and humidity.
You can find these kits online or in gardening stores across Australia. Many retailers also offer greenhouse for sale Australia searches, making it easy to compare prices and features.
Greenhouse Plastic: What You Need to Know
If you’re building your own greenhouse or need to repair an existing one, you’ll need quality greenhouse plastic. This is not the same as your average plastic sheeting—greenhouse-grade plastic is designed to withstand UV rays, temperature changes, and wind without cracking or tearing.
Here’s what to look for in greenhouse plastic Australia:
- Thickness: Typically measured in microns (200 micron is common for durability)
- UV Stabilisation: Prevents breakdown from sun exposure
- Light Diffusion: Helps distribute sunlight evenly to avoid hot spots
You can buy plastic sheeting by the roll or metre, perfect for creating greenhouse hoops or patching up a tunnel.
Buying a Greenhouse in Australia
So, where should you start if you're looking to buy a greenhouse in Australia?
Local Hardware Stores & Nurseries
In major cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, many local retailers stock a variety of greenhouse options. These include full greenhouse kits, plastic tunnels, and spare parts.
Online Greenhouse Retailers
There are several reputable websites offering greenhouse kits Australia-wide, with shipping to places like Medowie, Delacombe, and Tasmania. Many offer filters so you can shop by size, type, or material.
Search terms like greenhouse buy, greenhouse for sale Australia, or even specific suburbs (e.g., greenhouse Ballarat or greenhouse Edgecliff) can help you find retailers that deliver to your area.
Tips for Setting Up Your Greenhouse
Once you’ve bought your greenhouse, proper setup is key to getting the most out of it. Here are a few practical tips:
- Choose a sunny location: Aim for at least 6 hours of sun per day. Avoid shaded spots.
- Anchor it well: Especially if you’re using a lightweight greenhouse tent or plastic tunnel. High winds can easily lift an unsecured frame.
- Install proper ventilation: This prevents overheating and improves airflow.
- Add shelving: Maximise vertical space, especially in walk-in greenhouses.
- Use shade cloth if needed: In hotter areas like Brisbane or Perth, this can protect your plants from intense sun.
Maintaining Your Greenhouse
To keep your greenhouse thriving:
- Clean regularly: Prevent algae and mold buildup on plastic or glass panels.
- Inspect for tears or gaps: Especially in greenhouse plastic sheets or at joints in the frame.
- Monitor temperature and humidity: Simple thermometers and hygrometers can help.
- Water smartly: Use drip irrigation or watering cans to avoid overwatering.
Greenhouses in more humid or coastal areas (like Kirribilli or Sydney’s eastern suburbs) may require more attention to airflow to avoid fungal issues.
Regional Greenhouse Advice Across Australia
Australia’s diverse climates mean that greenhouse gardening varies slightly depending on where you live.
- Tasmania: Great for extending the growing season. A greenhouse plastic tunnel can protect from frost and wind.
- Brisbane & Perth: You’ll need good ventilation and possibly some shading to handle the heat.
- Melbourne & Ballarat: Mild climates make it ideal for a wide range of crops. Look for sturdy walk-in greenhouses that can handle occasional storms.
- Sydney & Edgecliff: Compact greenhouse tents work well for balconies and urban backyards.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a hobby gardener or someone looking to grow your own food all year round, investing in a greenhouse can transform your gardening game. From compact greenhouse tents in city backyards to large walk-in tunnels on rural properties, there's something to suit every Aussie gardener.
When you're ready to dive in, look for greenhouse kits Australia online or check out local suppliers in areas like Sydney, Perth, or Ballarat. With the right setup—and maybe a few rolls of durable greenhouse plastic—you’ll be well on your way to cultivating lush, healthy plants no matter the season.
Happy growing! ????