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The Best Polycarbonate Greenhouse Kits for Year-Round Gardening in 2023

The Best Polycarbonate Greenhouse Kits for Year-Round Gardening in 2023

For gardeners looking to extend their growing season or start plants early, a polycarbonate greenhouse is an excellent investment. Polycarbonate panels provide insulation to maintain warm temperatures while allowing in sunlight.

But with so many options on the market, it can be tricky to determine which one is right for your needs. To help you decide, here is an overview of the top 5 best polycarbonate greenhouse kits:

  • Hoklartherm Riga Greenhouses 2S - Best for Year-Round Growing
  • Palram-Canopia Balance 8' x 12' Greenhouse - Best for Beginners
  • GLANZEND 6x10 FT Polycarbonate Greenhouse - Best Under $500
  • Exaco Riga XL 6 Greenhouse 14' x 19'10" - Most Spacious
  • VEIKOUS 6 ft. x 10 ft. Walk-In Garden Greenhouse - Most Durable

Whether you're a hobby gardener or a commercial grower, read on to find the best polycarbonate greenhouse to meet your gardening needs.

Hoklartherm Riga Greenhouses 2S - Best for Year-Round Growing

dimensions of Exaco Riga Greenhouses 2S

The Hoklartherm Riga Greenhouses 2S is an excellent greenhouse for growing plants throughout the year. With 8mm twin-wall polycarbonate panels, it provides ample insulation for maintaining warm temperatures even in winter.

This 54 sq. ft. greenhouse is designed and manufactured in Germany by Hoklartherm, a leading producer of commercial and hobby greenhouses. It features durable materials and robust hardware, making it one of the strongest greenhouses under $5,000.

Key Features:

  • 8mm twin-wall polycarbonate glazing for insulation
  • German-engineered for durability
  • More ventilation than comparable models
  • Optional two-layer shelving system
  • Removable shelf inserts for tall plants
  • Anchorable 6” foundation frame

Pros:

  • Provides enough insulation for year-round growing
  • Durable construction withstands weather
  • Good ventilation with windows and doors
  • Flexible interior layout with removable shelves
  • Anchors securely into the ground for stability

Cons:

  • Smaller growing area than some other models
  • Limited customization options

Price:

$5,200

Final Verdict:

The Hoklartherm Riga 2S greenhouse offers superior insulation and durability compared to other models under $5,000. Its ample ventilation, flexible interior, and secure anchoring make it an excellent choice for all season growing. While assembly instructions could be better, its overall high-quality German engineering makes this a great greenhouse for serious gardeners.

Palram-Canopia Balance 8' x 12' Greenhouse - Best for Beginners

Canopia Balance 8' Greenhouse - Green_8x12_with flowers

The Palram-Canopia Balance 8' x 12' Greenhouse is an excellent option for hobby gardeners looking for their first greenhouse. With 96 square feet of growing space and a durable aluminum frame, it provides ample room for starting seedlings or extending the growing season.

This greenhouse makes plant care easy with its twin-wall polycarbonate roof panels that block 99.9% of harmful UV rays while still allowing beneficial light through. The crystal clear polycarbonate side panels transmit over 90% of available light as well. Integrated rain gutters and adjustable roof vents help maintain ideal temperatures and airflow.

Key Features:

  • 4mm twin wall roof panels for UV protection and light diffusion
  • Rust resistant powder coated aluminum frame
  • 96 sq ft of growing space and 7.5' of headroom
  • Low-threshold double doors for accessibility
  • 2 adjustable roof vents and integrated rain gutters
  • Withstands winds up to 60 mph when anchored

Pros:

  • Durable and long-lasting construction
  • Effective light management for plant growth
  • Ample headroom and growing space
  • Temperature and moisture control

Cons:

  • Can be noisy in high winds
  • Windows and doors may have small fit issues

Price:

$2,058.14

Final Verdict:

With its balance of growing space, durability, and functionality, the Palram-Canopia Balance 8' x 12' Greenhouse is an excellent choice for hobby gardeners looking to start their first greenhouse. The polycarbonate panels optimize light while blocking UV rays to give plants the best start. Overall, this greenhouse provides great value for beginners who want reliable performance without breaking the bank.

GLANZEND 6x10 FT Polycarbonate Greenhouse - Best Under $500

GLANZEND 6x10 FT Polycarbonate Greenhouse with plants inside

The GLANZEND 6x10 FT Polycarbonate Greenhouse is an ideal choice for hobby gardeners looking for a spacious and durable greenhouse that doesn't break the bank.

This greenhouse features a heavy-duty aluminum frame with a powder coating that prevents rusting and corrosion. The 4mm thick polycarbonate panels allow 70% light transmission for optimal plant growth while blocking over 99.9% of UV rays.

Key Features:

  • The walk-in design provides 60 sqft of growing space
  • Withstands temperatures from -20°C to 70°C
  • 4mm thick polycarbonate panels block UV rays
  • Aluminum frame with powder coating prevents rust
  • Adjustable roof vent for ventilation
  • Sliding door for easy access

Pros:

  • Provides optimal growing conditions for plants
  • Heavy-duty and durable construction
  • Allows good sunlight penetration
  • Keeps pets and animals out
  • Easy to access the interior

Cons:

  • Not as sturdy in high winds
  • Small and fiddly nuts and bolts make assembly frustrating

Price:

$455.99

Final Verdict:

The GLANZEND Polycarbonate Greenhouse is one of the best walk-in polycarbonate greenhouses you can get for under $500. It provides great growing conditions through ample interior space, sunlight penetration, and ventilation. The heavy-duty aluminum and polycarbonate construction mean this greenhouse will last for many seasons. Just make sure you budget ample time and patience for assembly. Overall, it's a great choice for home gardeners who want a durable and spacious greenhouse on a budget.

Exaco Riga XL 6 Greenhouse 14' x 19'10" - Most Spacious

Hoklartherm Riga XL 9 Greenhouse open windows

The Exaco Riga XL 6 Greenhouse is an exceptional greenhouse designed and manufactured in Germany by Hoklartherm. This spacious 14' x 19'10" greenhouse is made with quality polycarbonate materials and features superior insulation, making it ideal for all-season gardening.

The Riga XL greenhouse stands out for its sturdy construction and durability. It has a strong aluminum frame that is permanently attached for maximum stability in windy conditions. The walls and roof are made of 16mm triple-wall polycarbonate panels that provide excellent insulation.

Key Features:

  • Durable aluminum frame with permanent attachments
  • 16mm triple-wall polycarbonate glazing for insulation
  • Sliding door and adjustable roof vents for ventilation
  • Optional shelving and bench systems
  • Available in 5 sizes
  • Spacious interiors for arranging plants
  • Engineered in Germany with quality materials
  • More window ventilation than similar models
  • Can withstand wind, rain, and snow
  • Attractive design fits in gardens
  • Removable shelf inserts for tall plants
  • Can hold heavy seed trays and 160lb weight

Pros:

  • High-quality German engineering and materials
  • Very durable against wind, rain, and snow
  • Spacious interior with adjustable layout
  • Convenient sliding door for easy access
  • Vents allow good air circulation

Cons:

  • More expensive than other brands
  • Assembly directions need improvement

Price:

$15,999.00

Final Verdict:

The Exaco Riga XL 6 Greenhouse is one of the best greenhouses you can buy for serious gardeners. Its superior insulation, quality construction, and spacious design make it well worth the investment. A few minor drawbacks like assembly instructions don't outweigh the overall performance and durability. If you want a greenhouse that will last for years and provide a comfortable environment for plants throughout the year, the Riga XL is highly recommended.

VEIKOUS 8 ft. x 14 ft. Walk-In Garden Greenhouse - Most Durable

VEIKOUS 8 ft. x 14 ft. Walk-In Garden Greenhouse on a white background

The key advantage of the VEIKOUS greenhouse is its durability. The powder-coated aluminum frame provides a sturdy base that won't corrode or decay. The 4mm polycarbonate panels are thicker than typical greenhouse panels for extra insulation and strength. Together, the frame and panels form a rugged greenhouse perfect for the backyard.

Ventilation is another important feature. The adjustable roof vents allow air circulation to prevent overheating on hot days. The lockable door with handles offers easy access. Inside there is ample room for starting seeds and nurturing tender plants.

Key Features:

  • Sturdy aluminum frame with powder coating
  • Thick 4mm polycarbonate panels
  • Adjustable roof vents for airflow
  • Spacious 8 ft x 14 ft interior
  • Lockable door with handles for access
  • Withstands outdoor weather

Pros:

  • Durable aluminum frame won't corrode
  • Thick panels provide insulation and strength
  • Adjustable vents prevent overheating
  • Large interior for plenty of plants
  • Easy access with a lockable door

Cons:

  • Prone to leaking during heavy rains
  • The door could be wider for moving larger pots

Price:

$789.99

Final Verdict:

With its rugged construction and spacious interior, the VEIKOUS 6 ft x 10 ft Walk-In Garden Greenhouse is built to last. The durable aluminum frame and thick polycarbonate panels can withstand years of use. Despite some limitations, this greenhouse is one of the toughest and most durable options for backyard growing. It provides ample space and protection to get plants off to a vigorous start.

Things to Look for When Buying the Best Polycarbonate Greenhouse

When shopping for the best polycarbonate greenhouse for your needs, there are several key factors to consider:

Size 

Consider the dimensions of the growing space you need both in square footage and height. Make sure to account for headroom and room to arrange plants. Popular sizes are 6x8 ft, 8x12 ft, and 10x12 ft.

Material Quality

Look for polycarbonate panels at least 4mm thick for durability and insulation. The aluminum frame should have a powder coating to prevent rusting. High-quality greenhouse material withstands weather and lasts longer.

Ventilation 

Proper ventilation prevents overheating and air circulation promotes growth. Look for adjustable roof vents, roof windows that open, and doors that allow airflow.

Accessibility 

Doors and entryways should make it easy to get in and out of the greenhouse. Sliding doors take up less space while hinged doors allow wider access. 

Temperature Control

Passive greenhouses rely on ventilation for temperature regulation. For more control, look for models with exhaust fans, heaters, shade cloths, and thermostats.

Keeping these factors in mind will help you select the best polycarbonate greenhouse for your gardening needs and climate. Prioritize the features that are most important for your greenhouse growing capacity.

Conclusion

A high-quality polycarbonate greenhouse allows you to grow plants throughout the year. The best models feature durable aluminum frames, multi-wall polycarbonate panels, and designs focused on insulation, ventilation, and strength. While assembly can take time, an excellent polycarbonate greenhouse ultimately provides space and protection to keep your plants thriving in any season. Thoughtfully consider all the above-mentioned factors as you decide which of these top-rated polycarbonate greenhouses is the best fit for your gardening experience.

FAQs

How does a twin wall polycarbonate greenhouse kit differ from a glass greenhouse?

Twin wall greenhouse kits offer a couple of advantages over glass greenhouses. Polycarbonate walls provide better insulation because they trap air between the layers, making them more energy efficient. They also have higher light diffusivity, which reduces the risk of plant burn. Polycarbonate sheets are more durable than glass panels, can handle a high snow load, and resist shattering and UV degradation.

What role does light transmission play in a quality polycarbonate greenhouse kit?

Light transmission is critical in a greenhouse because it directly impacts plant growth. Clear panels or transparent panels allow maximum light into the greenhouse. The higher the light transmission, the better the conditions for photosynthesis and thus optimal plant growth. Twin-wall polycarbonate sheets allow for excellent light diffusion, thereby ensuring that sunlight reaches all plants equally.

How easy to assemble is a polycarbonate greenhouse kit?

Most polycarbonate greenhouse kits are designed to be easy to assemble and usually come with a detailed manual. Smaller greenhouse kits are generally easier to set up than larger ones. That said, even larger models, like the Mont greenhouse or aluminum greenhouse, are easier to assemble than their glass equivalents due to the lightweight and manageable nature of polycarbonate panels.

Can polycarbonate greenhouses withstand extreme weather conditions?

Yes, polycarbonate greenhouses are known for their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. The durability of polycarbonate panels allows them to endure high winds, heavy snow loads, and hail better than other materials such as glass. This makes them a top choice for gardeners in areas with unpredictable or severe weather.

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About The Author

Andy Wu - Resident Expert

Andy Wu - Resident Expert

Andy Wu is the resident backyard products expert and hails from Atlanta, Georgia. His passion for crafting outdoor retreats began in 2003.

As a fellow homeowner, he founded Backyard Oasis to provide top-quality furnishings and equipment, collaborating with leading manufacturers.

His main focus is on sheds and generators!

In his spare time he like to hike the tallest mountains in the world and travel with his family.

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