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How to Budget for a Backyard Greenhouse

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How to Budget for a Backyard Greenhouse

Get your garden growing earlier in the year without draining your savings all at once.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $900 before anything else
Across the 0% window $60.00/mo 15 months, no interest

How we got that: $900 spread evenly across the 15-month introductory window on the Discover it® Cash Back. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Installing a greenhouse means you can start seeds in February while the ground outside is still frozen. Once it is built, you gain a climate-controlled space that keeps your plants alive through unpredictable spring frosts.

Buy your kit in late winter. Shops are often clearing out old inventory before the spring rush, and you are more likely to catch a discount when demand is low. Expect to spend about $900 for a decent starter kit.

Remember that the 0% intro APR is just a temporary window. If you still have a balance after the 15 months end, the bank will start charging you regular interest on what you owe.

The steps

  1. 01

    Compare kit prices

    Look at three different suppliers before you commit. Prices fluctuate based on the frame material and the thickness of the panels. Getting more than one quote helps you spot if a brand is overcharging for basic features.

  2. 02

    Plan the foundation

    A greenhouse needs a level spot to sit on. You might need to buy gravel, timber, or concrete blocks to keep the structure stable. Factor these small hardware store costs into your total budget.

  3. 03

    Use your credit card

    You can use the Discover it® Cash Back card to help spread out the cost. It offers 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. This lets you break your $900 purchase into manageable chunks.

  4. 04

    Set your payment schedule

    Divide your total cost by the 15-month intro window. If you spend $900, plan to pay $60.00 per month. Set up an automatic payment to hit this target so you stay on track.

  5. 05

    Build during a dry spell

    Check the weather for a stretch of clear days in late winter to assemble the frame. Having a friend help you will make the job much faster and safer. Trying to build in high winds can damage the panels before you even finish.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Discover it® Cash Back carries the date a person verified it against Discover and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Discover it® Cash Back terms →

Common questions

Do I need a building permit?

Check your local zoning rules first. Some towns require permits for structures over a certain size, even in a backyard.

What is the hardest part of the build?

Leveling the ground is the most tedious step. If your base is not flat, the doors will not hang right and the panels may not seal properly.

How long does a kit last?

A high-quality kit can last for years, but watch out for cheap plastic panels that turn brittle in the sun. Look for UV-treated materials.

Can I do this alone?

You can, but it is much harder. Many kits require one person to hold panels in place while the other person secures the bolts.