Greenhouse Placement: Where to Put Your Greenhouse for Best Results

When you buy a greenhouse, a structure designed to trap heat and extend the growing season for plants. Also known as a glasshouse, it’s not just a box you plop down in the yard. Where you put it affects everything—from how much sun your plants get to whether your winter crops survive. A poorly placed greenhouse can turn into a cold trap, a steamy sauna, or just a shadowy corner where nothing thrives.

Start with sun exposure, the amount of direct sunlight a location receives daily. In the UK, you need at least six hours of direct sun, preferably from 10am to 4pm. South-facing spots are ideal, especially if you’re growing tomatoes, peppers, or cucumbers. East-facing works fine for seedlings and leafy greens, but avoid north-facing unless you’re only using it for hardy herbs or overwintering plants. Don’t just look at the sky—watch how shadows move. A tree, fence, or even your house can block crucial light in winter when the sun is low.

Next, think about wind exposure, how much wind hits your greenhouse structure. Strong winds crack glass, warp frames, and dry out soil fast. If your garden is open and exposed, consider placing your greenhouse near a wall or hedge for natural windbreaks—but not so close that it blocks sunlight. A gap of at least a foot between the wall and the greenhouse lets air circulate and prevents condensation buildup. Also, avoid low-lying areas where cold air sinks. Frost pockets kill early plants faster than a late frost.

Drainage matters too. You don’t want water pooling under your greenhouse after rain. Check the ground slope. A slight tilt away from the structure helps water run off naturally. If your soil is heavy clay, raise the base a few inches or lay down gravel first. Good airflow under the greenhouse stops rot and keeps pests away. And don’t forget access—put it where you can easily wheel in compost, haul out pots, or roll a watering can. A greenhouse tucked behind a shed might look neat, but if you’re dreading the walk to it, you’ll use it less.

Some gardeners forget about proximity to utilities, water taps, electricity, or heating sources. Even if you’re not planning to heat your greenhouse now, having a hose nearby saves hours of carrying water. If you ever add a heater, fan, or lights, you’ll thank yourself for running a socket close by. And while you’re at it, think about storage. Keeping pots, tools, and seed trays near the door cuts down on clutter and makes daily care easier.

There’s no one-size-fits-all spot, but the best greenhouse placement balances sun, shelter, drainage, and convenience. Look at your garden like a puzzle. Where does the light hit hardest in March? Where does the wind howl in January? What’s the easiest path from your back door? The answers will guide you. Don’t guess. Watch your yard for a few days. Note the shadows. Feel the breeze. Then place it where your plants will thank you.

Below, you’ll find real advice from UK gardeners who’ve tried every spot—under trees, against walls, in corners—and learned what actually works. Whether you’re new to greenhouses or upgrading an old one, these guides cover placement mistakes, seasonal tweaks, and how to make the most of every inch of light and warmth.