What is an Indoor Garden Called? A Guide to Indoor Plant Enclosures

An indoor garden allows you to grow plants inside your home all year round. But what exactly is an indoor garden called? Indoor gardens go by many names, including conservatory, solarium, sunroom, greenhouse and more. In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of indoor garden enclosures so you can choose the best option for your home and plants.

What is a Conservatory?

A conservatory is one of the most popular types of indoor gardens. It is a glass-enclosed space attached to a home, typically with a glass roof and lots of windows. Conservatories are designed primarily as beautiful, comfortable living spaces that also facilitate indoor plant growth.

Conservatories allow ample natural sunlight to filter in which is beneficial for plants. You can decorate a conservatory with furnishings install climate controls, and use it just like any other room in your home. Conservatories are ideal for potted plants and smaller gardens rather than large-scale crop cultivation.

Compared to a greenhouse, a conservatory offers more aesthetic appeal and comfort. It improves curb appeal as a gorgeous addition to any home. Conservatories are excellent choices if you want an indoor garden that doubles as a living area.

What is a Sunroom?

A sunroom is another common term used for an indoor garden space. Sunrooms are very similar to conservatories. The main difference is a sunroom may have more solid walls rather than being completely enclosed in glass.

Sunrooms still allow in plenty of natural light through windows and glass walls or panels They are attached to homes and used as livable spaces to enjoy plants indoors, Sunrooms can also be furnished and decorated as cozy spaces to relax in while tending to potted plants

What is a Solarium?

A solarium has transparent glass walls and ceilings like a conservatory, allowing sunlight to pour in. Solariums are intended for 4-season use, with thicker glass that retains heat in winter. The main difference from a conservatory is a solarium’s function is first and foremost growing plants.

Solariums require frequent maintenance like cleaning the glass walls and ceiling They can become uncomfortably hot and humid inside Solariums offer less decor flexibility than conservatories and sunrooms. But they excel at creating an ideal indoor garden environment.

What is a Greenhouse?

Greenhouses are structures designed specifically for cultivating plants, not for comfort or aesthetics. They are typically made from glass or plastic, with few solid walls, allowing maximum light exposure. Greenhouses have technical controls to regulate interior humidity, temperature, water, and other plant growth factors.

Greenhouses can range from small sheds to huge commercial growing spaces. They often have dirt floors, deep beds, and irrigation systems for large-scale crop production. Greenhouses lack furnishing or decor flexibility and are impractical as livable spaces. But they offer the best indoor garden environment for intensive plant cultivation.

Choosing the Best Enclosure for You

When deciding what to call your indoor garden space, consider what you want to grow, your budget, available space, and functionality. Most homeowners opt for conservatories or sunrooms for their multi-use value, comfort, and appearance. Greenhouses and solariums optimize plant growth but are less livable.

Make sure to choose durable materials like tempered safety glass for walls and ceilings. This ensures your indoor garden can withstand temperature fluctuations and last for years to come. Work with a professional installer for proper structural engineering and customization to perfectly suit your home.

Benefits of an Indoor Garden

Installing any type of indoor garden enclosure provides many benefits:

• Grow plants, flowers, herbs, and vegetables year-round
• Protect plants from harsh weather, pests, and diseases
• Regulate temperature, humidity, soil moisture ideal for plant health
• Add beautiful, natural ambiance to your living space
• Improve air quality by absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen
• Provide fresh herbs, veggies and greenery right inside your home
• Express your creativity designing a unique garden oasis
• Increase relaxation being surrounded by livings plants
• Gain more privacy while enjoying views of nature
• Boost your home’s value with an attractive new addition

Design the Perfect Indoor Garden for Your Home

Choosing the right indoor garden enclosure starts with determining your needs. Browse images of sunrooms, conservatories, greenhouses, and solariums to find inspiration.

Factor in your climate, yard space, preferred plants, and functionality. Consult with experienced installers to map out the perfect customized design. Investing in an indoor garden is a wonderful way to incorporate nature’s beauty in your home and enjoy cultivating plants inside year-round.