• Greenhouse Accesories
• Potting Benches

Choosing Your Potting Bench

Size matters when working in confined spaces. Compact benches at 90cm wide are the perfect addition to mini wooden greenhouses or smaller 6x4 structures, while 120cm models provide ample room for seed trays and tools 🛠️.

Materials impact longevity: pressure-treated timber weathers naturally but needs annual treatment, whereas galvanised steel worktops wipe clean instantly and never rot. Aluminium frames stay rust-free for 15+ years in damp conditions. Prices start from £45 for basic wooden models, rising to £179 for commercial-grade benches with two-tier storage and metal tops. Consider what you'll store underneath — folding staging maximizes space when you need occasional extra surfaces. For serious propagation work, pair your bench with dedicated greenhouse shelving to keep seedlings at eye level.

Key Features to Look For

Frequently Asked Questions about Potting Benches

• How high should a potting bench be?

  The ideal height is 86-91cm for users between 5'4" and 6'0" tall. This ergonomic range keeps your spine neutral when potting plants, reducing back fatigue by up to 40% during long propagation sessions. Shorter gardeners benefit from 80cm models, while taller users should look for 95cm+ benches.

• What is the difference between potting benches and staging?

  Potting benches have solid worktops designed for active tasks like soil mixing and seed sowing, plus storage for tools. Greenhouse staging typically uses slatted surfaces optimized for air circulation and drainage under plant pots. Many gardeners use both — staging for growing on, and benches for working.

• Can I leave a wooden potting bench outside year-round?

  Yes, if it's made from pressure-treated timber (often green-tinted). We recommend applying a wood preserver annually to maintain the finish. Untreated softwood will rot within 2-3 winters. Aluminium and galvanised models need zero maintenance and handle British weather indefinitely.

• How much do potting benches cost?

  Basic wooden models start from £45, with premium heavy-duty benches reaching £179. Mid-range options (£80-£120) typically include galvanised tops and two-tier storage. Professional-grade benches with metal frames cost more but last 15+ years without replacement — equivalent to buying 3-4 cheaper wooden benches.

• Do I need to assemble potting benches myself?

  Most arrive flat-packed with clear instructions and take 20-40 minutes to build using basic tools (screwdriver, spanner). Pre-drilled holes and numbered parts make assembly straightforward. Some premium models, like the Palram Canopia 2 Tier Staging, use click-together connectors requiring no tools at all.

• What size potting bench fits a 6x4 greenhouse?

  A 90cm wide bench suits 6x4 greenhouses perfectly, leaving 60cm walkway space. Position it along one side beneath Vitavia 1 Tier Green Staging to maximize vertical storage. Avoid benches wider than 100cm in compact spaces, as they restrict access to plants on upper shelves.