The shelf is covered with clear plastic, and a small planter or cell pot is used to hold soil and seeds in it. If you use the greenhouse outdoors, put a thermometer inside and vent the device when the temperature rises above 80 degrees, as high temperatures can kill the seeds and seedlings. I didn't expect this to be a walk in the park - in a portable greenhouse, but it just looks like a shelved shelf. The mini greenhouse is pretty much identical to a standard outdoor greenhouse with a few sma