Here's How You Should Be Organizing Your Greenhouse To Maximize Space

You found the perfect location for your backyard greenhouse. You've spent the weekend putting it up. Now what? This is the time to step back and think about how you will use the greenhouse — from your daily workflow to the different activities you will need to perform throughout the year. How will those needs change from one season to the next and how will your workspaces need to change with them? Take some time to sit down with pencil and paper to make a list of everything you plan to do in your greenhouse throughout the year, from planting to overwintering plants. Once you have an idea of the tasks you need to perform, think about the zones you will need in the greenhouse. Consider sketching them out to get a better idea of just how much you can fit, but don't forget about vertical space. 

Using all your space, often in multifunctional ways, is key to maximizing your greenhouse space. Think about how you can squeeze more efficiency out of every nook and cranny, even if you have to think outside the box. For instance, can you use a lazy Susan organizer meant for the office to hold tools? A rolling cart that tucks under your worktable can also make it easy to access your supplies. It's all about cramming the most use into the least space!

Every gardener needs a potting area. Generally, a waist-height table with a tub for mixing soil works. Look for something with storage below, and perhaps above, to maximize the use of that square footage and keep extra soil, pots, or tools close at hand. For example, a slatted or mesh table works well for growing seedlings, as it lets water drain away and keep air flow moving. You can reclaim the space below to keep hoses, watering cans, or anything that won't be bothered by the water draining from above. Alternatively, a shelving unit might let you house more seedlings in the same space, but you will need to keep their lighting needs in mind.

If you want to overwinter your potted plants, you will need a sunny spot away from drafts, so a lightweight, portable table could be helpful. A collapsible table or shelving could make it easy for you to change your set up when the demands of your plants change. Don't forget to use your vertical space. Shelves and hooks can provide a great place to store gardening gloves, thermometers, and trowels. Look for unexpected spaces as well, such as your shelf supports. What can you hang or prop there to make sure you use every square inch? Finally, as you organize the space, consider other ways you could use the greenhouse when you aren't growing plants — be it as a lounge space or a gym — to maximize its usefulness year-round.