5 Must Have Greenhouse Accessories
Getting started with a greenhouse can be so much fun, but also a little daunting. The new space in your garden is ready for filling, but it’s worth pausing and considering how you want to configure the layout and what accessories you need to get the most out of your greenhouse.
I got my first greenhouse in 2022, (read more about it here), and have since learnt which accessories are key to getting set up.
Here are my top 5 greenhouse accessories.
1. Staging
I’d recommend getting staging with at least two shelves to keep things tidy and maximise the space you have. I ordered my Greenhouse in a package that included beautiful cedar ones that make it smell like a sauna, but there are so many options out there, just make sure you’ve got your measurements right before ordering.
Wooden Staging - it’s the pricier option but worth the investment in my opinion. It doesn't get too hot (like metal in direct sunlight), has a beautiful smell, and is the most aesthetically pleasing. I have the Caverswall Staging from Greenhouse People available from £158, but you can find cheaper versions on Etsy and Ebay too.
Aluminium Tray staging - a cheaper option (depending on your size), the trays in this set up can give you the option to have gravel trays or flat working surfaces. GreenhousesRus Babbington Staging is available from £36.
Wire Shelved Staging - the cheapest option but perfectly usable, they are often not as sturdy but can still work well to give you the storage and space you need for seedings and bigger plants alike. This Christow 4 Tier staging is £19.99 in the sale, but there are lots of similar types available on Amazon too.
2. Max/Min Greenhouse Thermometer
The whole purpose of a greenhouse is to provide a more consistent environment for your plants so it’s important to monitor the temperature on an ongoing basis. A greenhouse thermometer will allow you to see both the highest and lowest temperatures recorded as well as the current temperature so you can adjust heating for your young plants during the cooler months. For less than £10 you can get this battery powered ETI Electonic one from Amazon, or you could get an all singing and dancing version like the eMylo Thermometer which includes a hygrometer that measures the humidity levels (a factor in plant fungal diseases) that you can connect to an app (note you will need your home wifi to reach your greenhouse for these to work).
3. Vertical Plant Supports
This is going to be revolutionary for my tomato growing next year and will look so much neater than multiple canes sticking out of each pot. Vertical plant supports connect to the inside frame of your greenhouse encouraging upward growth of the plants below. It’s perfect for tomatoes, aubergines, courgettes, and any other vine type plants.
Option 1, Aluminium Plant Tie Supports, you can get a pack of 10 for £15 from Halls Greenhouses, which works as a basic bracket to which you can tie on string that holds up your growing plants the other end.
Option 2, Canopia Greenhouse Trellis Kit, available from £39.95 from Garden Oasis, where you get 6 spools that attach with connecting brackets and the twine provided acts on a pulley system that can be shortened as your plants grow upwards.
4. A Tidy Tray
Unless you’ve gone for the tray staging, having a separate potting tray on hand will ensure your greenhouse doesn’t get too messy. It works like a portable potting bench that will catch any overflowing soil while you are sowing seeds and potting on plants. This Tierra Garden Tidy Tray is available on Amazon for less than £15.
5. Desktop Storage Drawers
The glass of a greenhouse means everything is on show, always, so incorporating good storage systems is essential to keep it looking neat and tidy at all times. Desktop storage units are perfect solutions for the smaller bits and pieces you need in the garden. I use mine for plant labels, twine and scissors, plant clips, pencils, and secateurs. I love this three drawer unit from Hobbycraft because it utilises the space on top with compartments too.
