How to create a herb planter greenhouse?

[KRW]

I have this planter/greenhouse box that I was given and was wanting to use it as a herb planter. The top is about 5cm depth. Is this enough space for the herbs to grow on top of? Or do I need to look at removing the metal sheet? 

It is also a bit flimsy and some of the sheet wrapping has come undone, any recommendations on the best approach to fixing these? And any suggestions would be appreciated for any improvements needed.

I also have a repurpose/recycle/reuse component to my projects so any suggestions thst sway that way would be appreciated too, thank you

Also looking for recommendations on best soil and herbs for it

Thanks

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @KRW,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community and thank you for your question.

Unfortunately, 5cm is quite shallow for most herbs. Most common herbs like basil, parsley, thyme, or coriander need at least 15–20cm of soil depth to establish healthy roots. If you had the herbs in pots of a suitable size on top of the metal sheeting, it would be fine, but if you wanted to fill them with soil and plant the herbs, you would need to modify it. If you'd like to do this, I'd need to see how the metal sits on the base to offer ideas on how to modify it.

The timber structure itself looks nice and sturdy; however, I am not so confident about the frame over the top. The design looks fine, but it doesn't look like it is in great condition, with duct tape being used to join the sections together. You could essentially recreate the frame using Poly Pipes and Poly Pipe Fittings, using hose clamps to make a more solid connection.

You can replace the cover with this Polytuf 2.4 x 3.0m Clear View Tarpaulin, using cable ties to connect it to the frame. You can use a Eyelet Plier Kit to put some small holes in the tarp where you need to feed the cable ties through.

Allow me to tag @Dave-1, @DIYGnome and @Noyade to see if they have any ideas or thoughts they can add.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

[Dave-1 · Accepted solution]

Good Afternoon @KRW 

I actually like the look of the seed greenhouse. It has more of a germination are athen a true garden bed. 

If you think of growing seedlings in trays then the whole lots sizes all match up.

To grow herbs in it I would actually grow them in conatiners that you can switch out as you use the herbs and they die back. Jack 495mm Charcoal Outdoor Garden Up Classic Pot as an example height/width. A lot of nuseries have reuse pots available as well tho I would wash and clean them in the sun to stop any cross contamination issues. 

If the legs are shaky, you can attach a diagonal brace across them. Screwing into each leg as it passes the diagonal brace. I would go a brace on either side and either end.

Change over the old roofing material with new shade clothe. @JacobZ has mentioned a clearer one that may be suitable.

Dave

[KRW]

Thank you for that. Based on your comments I have made the necessary adjustments. Now I'm seeking advice as to which soil or mulch or whatever, would be best for the herbs as well information on which herbs to sue or which herbs grow well together etc. I am located in south East Queensland if that helps.

[KRW]

Thank you!

[JacobZ]

Hi @KRW,

I'd suggest using a high-quality garden soil such as this Scotts Osmocote 25L Garden Soil Premium Planting Mix. It is rich in nutrients, will hold moisture well and has 4 months' worth of slow-release fertiliser to help get your herbs established.

In a greenhouse in South East Queensland, several herbs thrive exceptionally well thanks to the warm, humid, and protected conditions. Basil is a top performer, loving both heat and humidity, and you can grow multiple varieties such as Genovese, Thai, or Purple basil. 

Vietnamese mint is another ideal choice, as it flourishes in moist, warm environments. 

Oregano and thyme both do well in the warmth, provided their soil is well-drained, making them perfect for pots. 

Chives are compact, easy to grow, and adapt well to greenhouse settings. 

Chilli and capsicum, while not herbs in the strictest sense, are often grown alongside herbs and perform beautifully in protected, sunny environments. 

Coriander and parsley can also do well in a greenhouse, especially if given partial shade and regular moisture to prevent them from bolting in the heat. 

Together, these herbs create a highly productive and climate-appropriate collection for year-round growing in your greenhouse.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob