Greenhouse Sizing Calculator

Estimate the right greenhouse size for your plant count, compare frame material costs, and see how much usable growing space you get after accounting for benches and aisles.

# of Plants / Trays

Bench Width (ft)

Aisle Width (ft)

Frame Pricing (edit to match local rates)

PVC ($/sq ft)

Wood ($/sq ft)

Aluminum ($/sq ft)

Total Footprint

96 sq ft

8 ft × 12 ft

Growing Space

36 sq ft

38% of footprint · 1 bench row

Plant Capacity

~36 plants

~1 sq ft per plant/tray slot

Lowest Cost

$336.00

PVC Frame

Purchase Option	Quantity	Est. Cost
PVC FrameBest value	96 sq ft @ $3.50/sq ft	$336.00
Wood Frame	96 sq ft @ $7.00/sq ft	$672.00
Aluminum Frame	96 sq ft @ $12.00/sq ft	$1,152.00

Recommended: 8 ft × 12 ft greenhouseWith 1 bench row (3 ft wide) and 3 ft aisles, you get 36 sq ft of growing space (38% efficiency). The most affordable frame option is PVC Frame at $336.00.

Your plant count exceeds capacityYou want 50 plants but this greenhouse fits approximately 36 at 1 sq ft each. Consider a larger greenhouse size, narrower aisles, or multi-tier shelving to increase capacity.

Orientation tipFor maximum light exposure, orient your greenhouse with the longest wall facing south (in the Northern Hemisphere). This maximizes winter sun exposure, which is critical for year-round growing.

This is a rough sizing and cost estimate only. Actual greenhouse costs depend on covering material (polyethylene, polycarbonate, glass), foundation requirements, ventilation, heating, and local labor rates. Always get quotes from greenhouse suppliers for accurate pricing.