Hey everyone! I'm gearing up to move in with my boyfriend in a couple of months, and I really want to create a cozy greenhouse cabinet to keep my plant cuttings happy. He's not as into plants as I am, so I want to make it work for both of us. I'm planning to buy a wooden display cabinet from Facebook Marketplace, but I have a small budget and just two months to get it done. I could really use your advice on what to do and what to avoid. What's worked for you? What do you wish you'd known before setting one up? Thanks a lot!
3 Answers
I got a Barrina light from Amazon that works great, and I use a magnet to hang it in my thrifted cabinet! It’s super easy to set up and keeps my plants thriving. Don't forget to keep it budget-friendly, too!
I recommend steering clear of a wooden cabinet if you're going to use it for plants. The humidity can warp the wood over time, especially if it has glass doors. Good airflow is super important to prevent any mold or mildew, so maybe consider some small USB fans to help with circulation. You might also want to check out Barrina lights; they’re quite affordable and work well for plants! I personally use the yellow T5s in my Milsbo cabinet, and they do a great job.
Honestly, getting a steel shelving unit on wheels from Amazon has been the best choice for me! It’s easy to rearrange and gives you flexibility as your plant collection grows. Plus, they’re fantastic for keeping your plants organized and healthy. Your boyfriend might even start loving them too; seeing plants brings joy to a space!

As a cabinet maker, I can say that while wood is tricky for humid environments, you can seal it properly with epoxy to prevent issues. But honestly, going with sealed woods like red cedar might get pricey, so just think carefully about that.