What Accessories Do You Need in a Greenhouse?

Greenhouses offer a controlled environment for growing plants, but a structure alone isn't enough. To unlock the full potential of your greenhouse—whether it's for commercial farming, research, or hobby gardening—you need the right accessories. These tools and systems help regulate temperature, humidity, light, airflow, irrigation, and even pest control.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential greenhouse accessories, their functions, and why they matter for a successful operation.

1. Climate Control Accessories

Keeping the climate within an ideal range is vital for healthy plant growth.

● Ventilation Systems

Ventilation is key to preventing overheating and maintaining air circulation. Popular options include:

• Roof vents (manual or automatic)

• Side wall roll-ups

• Exhaust fans (especially for large greenhouses)

Automatic vent openers can adjust airflow based on temperature, saving labor and energy.

● Heating Systems

In colder climates or winter months, heaters help maintain optimal temperature. Common types:

• Gas or electric heaters

• Hot water heating systems

• Infrared radiant heaters

  
  

● Shade Cloths and Screens

Too much sun can burn your plants. Shade cloths (30% to 70%) help protect crops from excessive light and reduce interior temperature.

2. Irrigation Equipment

Manually watering plants is time-consuming and inconsistent. Automated systems improve efficiency and precision.

● Drip Irrigation Systems

Ideal for water conservation, drip systems deliver water directly to the root zone.

● Misting Systems

Perfect for nurseries or high-humidity crops, misting systems keep the air moist and reduce temperature.

● Sprinkler Systems

More common in larger greenhouses, overhead sprinklers distribute water evenly over wide areas.

● Water Timers & Controllers

These automate the irrigation schedule, ensuring plants receive water consistently.

3. Monitoring and Measurement Tools

Tracking conditions inside the greenhouse allows for smarter decision-making.

● Thermometers and Hygrometers

These basic tools monitor temperature and humidity. Choose digital models for more accuracy.

● Soil Moisture Sensors

Prevent over- or under-watering by measuring soil hydration levels in real time.

● pH and EC Meters

For hydroponic or nutrient-sensitive crops, measuring pH (acidity) and EC (electrical conductivity) is critical.

4. Growing Accessories and Structures

Maximize your space and organize your crops.

● Benching and Shelving

Raised benches improve airflow and make plant care easier, especially in small greenhouses.

● Hanging Systems and Trellises

Support vine crops like tomatoes, cucumbers, and beans. Keeps plants upright and reduces disease risk.

● Seed Trays and Propagation Domes

For starting seedlings, these trays ensure high germination rates and easy transplanting.

5. Lighting Systems

If you’re growing in winter or in low-light regions, supplemental lighting is necessary.

● LED Grow Lights

Energy-efficient and customizable spectrum for different plant stages (vegetative, flowering).

● Fluorescent Lights

Often used for seedlings and young plants. Cheaper, but less powerful than LED.

6. Insect and Pest Control Tools

Pests can quickly ruin a crop. Prevention is key in enclosed greenhouse environments.

● Insect Netting and Screens

Prevent entry of flying insects without blocking airflow.

● Sticky Traps

Used to monitor and reduce populations of pests like whiteflies, aphids, and fungus gnats.

● Biological Control Systems

Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs or predatory mites to combat harmful pests naturall

7. Automation Systems

For commercial growers, automation boosts consistency and reduces labor costs.

● Environmental Controllers

Control multiple systems at once: temperature, lighting, irrigation, and humidity. Brands like Priva, Argus, or Galcon are common in large-scale setups.

● Smart Sensors & IoT Devices

Remote monitoring and data tracking via smartphone or computer help you optimize operations 24/7.

8. Storage and Maintenance Tools

Keeping your greenhouse organized is vital for efficiency.

● Tool Racks and Storage Units

Reduce clutter and make tools accessible when needed.

● Cleaning Supplies

Regular disinfection of tools, trays, and walkways prevents disease and pest buildup.

Final Thoughts

A well-equipped greenhouse is more than just a structure—it’s a finely tuned environment designed for maximum yield and efficiency. From ventilation fans to smart sensors, each accessory plays a role in plant health and operational success.

Whether you're planning a small backyard greenhouse or a large-scale commercial operation, investing in the right accessories ensures your crops thrive in all seasons.

Looking for high-quality greenhouse accessories tailored for your climate and crop type?

Contact us today to get a free consultation and quotation from our expert greenhouse design team.