It does not have to be a very expensive project; it all depends on what choices you make, and there are lots of options out there.

I see you're in USDA Zone 8b - only one zone away from my Zone 7, but probably a much milder and shorter winter nonetheless, and hotter, more humid summer.

It was beginning to look like I'd have to postpone getting a greenhouse altogether when I discovered the 6x8 Harbor Freight model that has a loyal following (and some critics) here. Please note, the new 10x12 is a whole different animal!

It is small, but for $329 ($299 on sale, $269 if you have the 20% off coupon) it's a great intro. I spent a total of about $800 for greenhouse, lumber, pool cover, fan, auto vent opener, heater, backup heater, benches, wireless thermo-hygrometer, U-clamps and extra T-bolts. Don't remember what I paid for gravel, caulk, tape, weatherstripping, 1" foam insulation for north wall, but they're not expensive items. My 26-year-old son and I put it all together in one day.

Like most people, we set it on a foundation for added height (I used 2x10's)and for winter use, insulated the 4mm twinwall polycarbonate glazing. I've been thrilled with it, grew flowers and veggies through the winter, found it a great retreat even in the coldest weather. Family loves it too.

I'd love to have a bigger one someday, but this has been a great start and I now have a better idea of what I will look for when I upgrade. Most of the "accessories" can be used in a somewhat larger greenhouse (on my suburban lot, I'll never have one of those glorious 16x24 things anyway), so there's no waste there either.

Your local library might be a good place to check for books. I borrowed the highly recommended book "The Greenhouse Gardener's Companion" and liked it enough to order one myself.

I expect you'll get lots of helpful suggestions. I understand your wanting to know what you're doing before you begin, and that may be possible ... to a degree ... Honestly, I had no idea how "hooked" I'd get on this hobby until I got into it. Have fun ... and be sure to let us know what you choose and how it goes!

Diane

Thanks Diane! I see now that I am going to get that book:) I am also glad to know that it can be done kind of inexpensively. I live in town and have a very small yard so if I do get one, it will have to be pretty small.

Krea, like Dianne I got the HF 6x8. It's perfect since I don't need that much winter protection and I take out panels for ventilation when it gets hot. I spent $249 on the GH (on sale with the coupon) and $20 on a shade cloth. I did buy some caulk to caulk it, but that wasn't too expensive. My husband built the shelves. OH I also bought an auto vent opener for around $40. Other than that the most money I have spent has been on plants and seeds to go in it!

Since your winters are close to ours, I'd consider the HF and spend the rest of your budget making it perfect, adding on whatever you like. That is if 6 x 8 is a good size for you. I'd also consider (and I've not dealt with this yet, it's my first year) that you may not be able to use it at all during the summer due to the heat unless you cool it. Then again, outside might be the best place to grow things during the summer anyway. Welcome to the addiction, it's fun.

I've built a 12x8 greenhouse from scratch using polycarbonate roofing and fencing hardwood for about $600au (I'm guessing about $450us) including walls, door, floor (crushed rock) and special things like electrical and water. If you're handy with tools you can build them quite easily. But if you're not, I'd also look at a commercial hobbiest greenhouse.

Thanks for the suggestions everyone! Its a real relife to know that a beginner can do this:) Thanks again!