WHY BACKYARD DISCOVERY
Greenhouses, Built Better by Design.
Most greenhouse brands sell you a frame and panels. Backyard Discovery builds what a greenhouse kit should actually be — with every feature you need to grow, already included.
100mph
Pro-Tect™ Tested & Proven
50lbs
Pro-Tect™ Tested & Proven
10mm
5yr
Every greenhouse is fully equipped, from $1,999 to $9,999. No upcharges for the ventilation, spigot, PowerPort™ Electric Hub, or shelving.
Monthly financing available for qualified buyers. Pay over time on any model in the lineup.
Free driveway delivery by a two-person crew in a box truck. Never a curbside pallet drop, with 99%+ of orders arriving damage-free.
BUILD QUALITY
Built for Real Weather.
Every claim on this page is backed by a verified specification, third-party testing
What Makes Our Greenhouses Stronger and More Functional
- 10mm 4-wall polycarbonate panels — twice the wall thickness and twice the air-gap insulation of standard 4–6mm twin-wall. The same specification used in commercial growing operations, not entry level.
- R-2.1 insulation value — versus R-1.6 on standard 6mm twin-wall consumer greenhouses. The difference between holding heat overnight or losing it. See the full polycarbonate vs. glass comparison →
- Engineered from the Ground Up — Pro-Tect™ engineered structure withstands 100 mph winds and 50 lbs of snow per square foot — in either corrosion-resistant galvanized steel and aluminum, or kiln-dried, naturally rot-resistant cedar.
- Thermostat-activated exhaust fan — included as standard on every model, automatically pulling heat out as interior temperatures rise. Climate management without lifting a finger or relying on passive airflow alone.
- Pre-cut, pre-drilled components — every panel and frame piece arrives factory-prepared, labeled, and ready for assembly. No cutting on-site.
Build quality that’s Pro-Tect™ tested & proven. Every greenhouse in the lineup is tested to wind and snow load standards before it carries the Pro-Tect™ mark.
BUYER'S CHECKLIST
What to Look For in a Greenhouse
Whatever brand you compare us to, these are the specs that actually drive long-term satisfaction:
- Polycarbonate wall thickness of 10mm or higher — most competitors: 4–6mm
- Wind load rating at minimum 80 mph for outdoor durability
- Snow load rating at minimum 30 lbs/ft² in any region with winter
R-value of 2.0 or higher for meaningful season extension - Pre-cut, pre-drilled components — no on-site cutting or sourcing parts mid-build
- Included ventilation system — fan, operable windows, vents (not add-ons)
- Replacement parts available for the life of the product, not just the warranty term
Backyard Discovery meets or exceeds every item on this list. If a competitor doesn't disclose one of these specs, that's information too.
TRUE COST
Backyard Discovery vs. Other Greenhouse Brands
Most greenhouse brands sell you a structure and stop there. What makes it actually work — ventilation, power, water, storage — comes later, at extra cost, from somewhere else.
Before you compare sticker prices: the DIY add-ons not even offered by the competition — fan, electrical, water, shelving, hooks — typically run $605–$1,375 at retail. Add those to a competitor's base price and the gap with Backyard Discovery closes, if not reverses. Here is the full breakdown.
| Structure & Materials | Backyard Discovery | Others |
| Polycarbonate glazing material Thickness & Insulation |
10mm 4-wall (R-2.1) superior year-round insulation |
4–6mm, 2-wall minimal insulation value |
| Wind rating | 100 mph | Up to ~62 mph, if disclosed at all |
| Snow load rating | 50 lbs/ft² | 14–20 lbs/ft², if disclosed at all |
| Wood frame | FSC-certified cedar | Pine or cedar, varies by brand |
| Metal frame | Galvanized steel & aluminum | Aluminum only |
| Features & Functionality | Backyard Discovery | Others |
| Thermostat-activated exhaust fan | Included | DIY add-on $80–$200 |
| Air intake vents | Included | DIY add-on $25–$50 |
| Operable windows | Included | DIY add-on $150–$400 |
Show less
Show more
| Interior water spigot | Included | DIY add-on $75–$100 |
| PowerPort™ Electric Hub | Included | DIY add-on $100 |
| Staging shelves & slat wall | Included | Add-on $150–$450 |
| Plant hooks | Included | Add-on $25–$75 |
| Wheelbarrow-friendly door | Included | Varies |
| Support & Warranty | Backyard Discovery | Others |
| Warranty | 5-year comprehensive | 1–3 years, varies by brand |
| Customer service | U.S.-based, 7 days/week | Varies |
| Parts replacement | Always available, ships in 48 hrs | Often unavailable |
By the time you've added what's missing, the gap closes — for a structure that still isn't in the same class.
Competitor specifications and add-on pricing based on typical retail market rates. Structural ratings based on published industry standards where disclosed. Last verified March 2026. Subject to change.
CHOOSE YOUR LINE
Natural Beauty or Minimal Maintenance. Both Built to Last.
Every Backyard Discovery greenhouse — cedar or metal — is engineered for durability and built to last. Choose the material that suits your style.
CORE COLLECTION
Cedar Greenhouses
Naturally beautiful, naturally insulating, naturally rot-resistant. A living material that improves with age and adds character to your backyard for decades.
- 100% FSC-certified sustainable cedar — third-party verified
- Arrives with pre-cut and pre-drilled pieces, ready to assemble
- Pro-Tect™ engineered structure – rated for 100 mph winds and 50 lbs/ft² snow load
- Naturally insect and rot resistant, with insulating properties that reduce cold transfer
- Periodic sealing recommended to preserve the cedar's natural
beauty, not required for structural integrity
NEW LAUNCH
Metal Greenhouses
Galvanized steel and aluminum construction — engineered to exceed any metal greenhouse on the market. Minimal maintenance. Extreme durability.
- Durable composite wall boards that never rot, warp or needs staining – all the natural look with none of the upkeep
- Zero rot, warping, and corrosion
Windows with removable magnetic screens for pollination - Heavy-duty galvanized steel and aluminum framing — built for permanent installation, not seasonal use
- Pro-Tect™ engineered structure – rated for 100 mph winds and 50 lbs/ft² snow load
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Everything you need to start growing
The features below are standard across every Backyard Discovery greenhouse — not upgrades, not add-ons.
Thermostat-Activated Exhaust Fan
Automatically turns on at your set temperature and vents heat before it builds up, then cycles off once the air cools. No switch to flip, no doors to open.
Interior Water Spigot
The exterior inlet connects your garden hose to the interior spigot, giving you running water inside the greenhouse without hauling a watering can back and forth.
PowerPort™ Electric Hub
The PowerPort™ Electric Hub includes 3 outlets and 3 USB ports, bringing outdoor-rated power access inside the greenhouse for low-draw accessories like grow lights and fans. For supplemental heating, follow the greenhouse manual, heater manufacturer guidance, and local electrical code.
Staging Shelves & Slat Wall
Interior staging shelves give you growing space, with room to start seeds, propagate, and tend potted plants, plus a slat wall that organizes tools, hooks, and planters vertically.
Operable Windows
Integrated windows open for passive ventilation, airflow control, and pollination while working with the exhaust fan and intake vents to keep air moving when it's hot.
Wide Entry Door
Wide enough to roll a wheelbarrow through with ease – not just to walk through. Move bags of soil, plants, and harvest in and out without a workaround.
ASSEMBLY
Built by Homeowners. Not Contractors.
Every Backyard Discovery greenhouse kit is designed for 2-3 person assembly with standard hand tools. No special skills required.
01
A level concrete slab, gravel base, concrete pavers, or treated lumber base frame. The base frame is part of foundation work — not included in the kit. Foundation type affects drainage and anchoring; Our greenhouse foundation guide covers all four options with costs, difficulty, and how to match foundation to greenhouse size.
02
Identify, sort and group all wood components and hardware before you start. Every piece is labeled, taking time to get organized at the start saves hours later.
03
Cedar models ship pre-cut and pre-drilled. Owners typically apply a seal or seal/stain — easier to do with the panels and boards laid out flat before assembly, but it can also be done after the build is complete.
04
Assembly is straightforward – pre-drilled panels and boards connect in sequence – no cutting, no guesswork. The BILT app guides each panel and board placement in 3D.
05
Attach the roof panels and ridge beam to wall structure.
06
Add plant hooks, interior spigot, and electric hub once the structure is
complete.
07
Connect a standard garden hose from your outdoor spigot to the exterior inlet, then run an interior hose to the indoor spigot. The PowerPort™ Electric Hub provides outdoor-rated power access into the greenhouse for approved accessories such as grow lights and fans — for any supplemental heating, follow the heater manufacturer guidance, and local electrical code.
Powered by BILT
Backyard Discovery greenhouses are assembled using the BILT app — the industry standard in illustrated 3D assembly guides. Every step, every part, every screw is visualized in real time.
BILT is free, works offline, and is available on iOS and Android.
Typical assembly time: Plan on a full weekend for the smaller models, and up to a full week for the largest. Assembly times vary widely based on your experience, the model size, and the pace you want to set — but rest assured every Backyard Discovery greenhouse kit is designed to be a homeowner project, just not an evening one. Most owners describe the build itself as part of the enjoyment of owning a greenhouse, especially when the BILT instructions are followed step by step.
Available on BILT App — Free
Tools You'll Need
- Power drill
- 1/8", 3/16", 3/8" & 7/16" drill bits
- Phillips-head drill bit & screwdriver
- Open-end wrenches: ½" & 9/16"
- 3/8" drive ratchet; ½" & 7/16" standard sockets; ½" & 7/16" deep sockets
- Tape measure, square, 24" level
- Rubber mallet, claw hammer
- 6' or 10’ ladder, depending on model
10mm
Commercial-grade spec – not residential
R-2.1
vs. R-1.6 on standard 6mm twin-wall panels
~30%
vs. standard 6mm twin-wall panels
2x
6–8 weeks earlier in spring, 6–8 weeks later in fall
Cold Climates
Season Extension
The greenhouse extends your growing season significantly in spring and fall, but winter growing requires supplemental heat. In zones 4–5, a small heater protects plants through mild cold snaps. Zone 3 winters will require consistent supplemental heating to maintain safe growing temperatures.
Snow Load
50 lbs/ft² rating handles heavy wet snow loads.
Most competitors are rated to 16–20 lbs/ft² — insufficient for serious Northern winters.
Cold-climate tip: For hard freeze nights, plan for supplemental heat. The PowerPort™ Electric Hub brings power into the greenhouse for grow lights, fans, and other low-draw accessories. For supplemental heating, the safest path is a separate dedicated circuit installed by a licensed electrician, sized to a UL-listed greenhouse or workshop heater rated for the cubic footage of your greenhouse. Avoid plug-in space heaters not specifically rated for greenhouse environments — the humidity and temperature swings in a working greenhouse are different from a typical room. Never plug heating equipment directly into the PowerPort™ Electric Hub or extension cords.
Temperate Climates
Year-Round Growing
Year-round growing is achievable but requires active management in every season. Spring and fall offer the most passive-friendly conditions. Winter nights in zones 6–7 will likely require a supplemental heater. Summers regularly push interior temperatures above 100°F, so shade cloth and an exhaust fan are both needed — not optional.
Spring / Fall Extension
Shoulder seasons are the sweet spot for zone 6–8 greenhouse growing. Start crops 6–8 weeks earlier in spring and extend harvests 6–8 weeks into fall with minimal supplemental input.
Temperate-climate tip: Open the windows and vents in shoulder seasons; let the thermostat-activated fan handle warm afternoons. Zones 6–8 offer the best balance of passive and active management — spring and fall typically need little intervention, but expect to run shade cloth and ventilation actively through summer, and a supplemental heater on cold winter nights.
Hot Climates
Summer Management
Summer growing is not practical in most of zones 9–11. Peak summer interior temperatures can exceed 120–130°F even with shade cloth and fans running. Focus summer efforts on keeping the structure ventilated and protected rather than actively growing.
Cool Season Growing
October through April is the prime growing season in hot climates — and where this greenhouse truly shines. Mild winters mean little to no supplemental heat is needed, and interior temperatures stay in an ideal range for most crops.
Hot-climate tip: Shade cloth is best installed externally to keep heat from entering through the panels in the first place. Different cloths are designed for different purposes — UV-stabilized knitted shade cloth in the 40–50% range is a common starting point for hot-climate use. The reality: in zones 9–11 at peak summer (July, August), no consumer greenhouse stays cool enough to grow heat-sensitive crops without a cooling break.
Read our full ventilation guide →
An honest note: In some climates and some months, the best a greenhouse can do is provide shade and structure for heat-hardy crops or seedling starts. Backyard Discovery gives you every tool available to manage your climate — forced ventilation, passive airflow, shade cloth compatibility —
but we won't oversell what a greenhouse can do.
THE COLLECTION
Find Your Greenhouse.
Every model ships with the same core feature set. What varies is size, silhouette, material, and a few model-specific additions.
WHICH SIZE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
| Footprint | Best For | Growing Capactiy | Notes |
| Small 9×6 / 10×6 | Starter grower, tight yard, supplement to a larger garden | ~54–60 sq ft of floor space | Most manageable build; easiest to heat in winter |
| Medium 11×7 / 12×7 / 12×8 | Serious hobbyist, primary growing space, year-round use | ~77–96 sq ft of floor space | Good balance of space and manageability; the sweet spot for most owners |
| Large 13×11 / 14×12 | Most serious hobbyist; high-volume grower; dedicated greenhouse gardener | ~143–168 sq ft of floor space | Maximum grow space in the Backyard Discovery lineup; go this big if your space and budget allow |
Starting prices: Backyard Discovery greenhouses start at $1,999 (Willow 9×6) and range up to $9,999 (Larkspur 14×12). See individual model cards below for full pricing across each line. A consistent piece of advice from greenhouse owners: go as big as your space and budget allow. Most owners we hear from wish they had gone one size up.
BACKYARD DISCOVERY GREENHOUSES
Bellerose
Traditional Peaked Roof With Pergola
Sizes Available:
9×6 (small)
11×7 (medium)
13×11 (large)
Shop Bellerose →
Zalie/Willow
Contemporary Sloped Roof
Sizes Available:
9×6 (small)
12×7 (medium)
Shop Zallie/Willow →
Poppy
Sloped Roof With Pergola Extension
Sizes Available:
9×6 (small)
11×7 (medium)
Shop Poppy →
Larkspur
Galvanized Steel & Aluminium
Sizes Available:
14×12 (large)
10×6 (small) — coming soon
12×8 (medium) — coming soon
Shop Larkspur →
GO AS BIG AS YOUR SPACE ALLOWS. YOU WON'T REGRET THE EXTRA SQUARE FOOTAGE. YOU WILL REGRET BEING CRAMPED.
Warranty & Support
The Warranty Without the Fine Print. The Support to Back It.
Industry-leading coverage and U.S.-based support — for the whole greenhouse, not select components.
Comprehensive coverage on all structural components, polycarbonate panels, hardware, and all included features. Our cedar and metal greenhouses are both covered under the same terms.
Your greenhouse arrives on a box truck with a two-person crew — not a semi dropping a pallet at the curb. Real Backyard Discovery employees monitor every order from warehouse to driveway through our own logistics network. 99%+ damage-free, with real-time tracking and a delivery photo on arrival. Preferred placement delivery (garage, backyard, etc.) available as an upgrade.
Learn more about our shipping →
Replacement parts ship within 48 business hours from our U.S. warehouse — no waiting on overseas inventory or backorders. Same standard we hold across every Backyard Discovery category.
Every part in every Backyard Discovery greenhouse is available as a standalone replacement — for as long as you own the greenhouse. You'll never be told a part is discontinued.
U.S.-based greenhouse specialists available 7 days a week, 8am–6pm CST. Real humans who know the product and can answer questions about your specific model and situation.
How does this compare?
Most competitor warranties are 1–2 years, cover structural components only, and explicitly exclude polycarbonate panels and hardware. Some advertise longer terms but with significant exclusions in the fine print. Backyard Discovery's 5-year full coverage is whole-product protection — not a marketing headline with carve-outs.
Real People, Expert Support
Talk to a Backyard Discovery greenhouse specialist directly.
Call: 1-800-856-4445
Email: customerserv@backyarddiscovery.com
WHAT GROWERS SAY
Reviews from Greenhouse Gardeners
4.8 – Based on 1,200+ verified purchases
Great Cost Effective Option
After pricing the lumber to build our own custom greenhouse, we realized what a good deal this was. We expected it to be on the flimsy side, but we were pleasantly surprised at how sturdy it it. The instructions were clear, everything was labeled well, and we received all the pieces we were supposed to. The build took us about a week - including adding stain/sealant. The only hard part was caulking the roof panels.
The inside is adorable - and plenty big enough for our needs. It's amazing how many extras (like the fan and heat sensor and adjustable shelves) are included in this price. We are extremely satisfied with this product, and highly recommend it.
Fantastic quality, great customer support!
Never have I enjoyed a construction project this much, especially one with this many steps. The directions are really good and easy to follow, and the Facebook Group Forum for Backyard Discovery greenhouses is a wealth of information. Pilot holes actually lined up as they should, making installation a snap. Any cracked or damaged pieces were promptly replaced by the company. I can't say enough good things about this!
Just do it!
I purchased the Zalie greenhouse approximately a month ago. Every step of the purchase was streamlined and easy. The sales department was on point and answered all of my questions. Delivery times were clear and on time. The greenhouse is my little dreamhouse. It is sturdy and well made with quality cedar.
This baby is solid. This week I started planting all my seedlings and placing them in there new home. In the winter, I will house my fruit trees and sensitive plants in the greenhouse and out of the elements. I am crazy happy with this purchase.
Awesome Company
Bought the 11 x 7 Bellarose greenhouse. Product arrived in perfect condition. Easy to follow instructions. Took 2 of us 3 1/2 days to construct. Everyone that sees it guess we paid $12-15k 👍
Worth the Price
Impressed with the high quality of this greenhouse! Solidly made. Looks amazing.
Was like a lego kit. Follow the instructions and it goes together nicely.
BEST GREENHOUSE OUT THERE
We have finished installing this beautiful greenhouse and it is as good - better - than we imagined in to be! The materials are awesome; every nut and bolt explained. It is not something you can order and simply install easily; it takes at least two people and it is very time consuming. However, it is totally worth it!!! We get neighbors and people stopping by constantly and complimenting us. We sealed it with Cabot Australian Timber Oil in Natural. It is stunningly beautiful and the function of it is superb! LOVE LOVE LOVE
FROM OUR GROWERS
Real Greenhouses. Real Backyards.
The greenhouses below are owned and operated by real Backyard Discovery customers — most built by the homeowners themselves, some assembled with help. Share yours with #BackyardDiscovery.
Ty W
We completed the build of our Savannah Greenhouse and couldn’t be happier with the results. Great quality material and easy to follow instructions ...
14.5x12 Savannah Greenhouse
Paul 61
Very impressed with the craftsmanship and written instructions. Very sturdy greenhouse we will enjoy for years to come.
11x7 Bellerose Greenhouse
DIG DEEPER
Learn Before You Build.
Our greenhouse guides cover the questions every buyer asks — from foundations and ventilation to choosing the right glazing and your first growing season.
Greenhouse Gardening for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Season
A practical, no-fluff guide to starting your first greenhouse season — from choosing the right size and glazing to a month-by-month planting calendar and the five mistakes that trip up nearly every...
Greenhouse Ventilation: How to Keep Your Plants Healthy Year-Round
A closed greenhouse can hit 100°F on a mild spring day. This guide covers exhaust fans, passive vents, circulation, humidity control, and seasonal strategies to keep your plants alive — backed by u...
Polycarbonate Greenhouse Panels vs. Glass Greenhouse Panels: The Complete Comparison
Which greenhouse glazing actually performs better for your climate, budget, and growing goals? We break down polycarbonate vs. glass across insulation, light, durability, cost, safety, and climate ...
Do I Need a Foundation for My Greenhouse? Options, Costs, and How to Decide
Compare four greenhouse foundation options — gravel, timber, pavers, and concrete — with real costs, trade-offs, and which one fits your greenhouse size.
How to Choose a Home Greenhouse Kit: The Complete Buying Guide
Walk through every greenhouse decision in order — from climate zone and growing goals to glazing, frame material, ventilation, and budget — so you know exactly what to look for before you buy.
Ready to Grow
Ready to pick your backyard discovery greenhouse
Whether you're drawn to the natural warmth of cedar or the low-maintenance strength of metal, every Backyard Discovery greenhouse is built to the same standard — complete features, verified specs, and support that doesn't disappear after the sale. Financing available for qualified buyers.
Questions? Talk to an expert, call 800-856-4445 (Mon–Sun, 8am–6pm CT) or contact us online.