Having a polytunnel greenhouse is a great way to extend your growing season. It can allow you to grow plants and fruit that are normally grown outdoors. It can also help protect your plants and crops from intense heat, hailstones and winds. It is also a great place to germinate seeds.
Polytunnels are available for all kinds of plants and can be used to grow a wide range of crops. Some examples include strawberries, melons, tomatoes, artichokes and cucumbers. These crops all grow well in the conditions of a polytunnel. They attract beneficial insects and repel pests.
Polytunnels can also be used to protect crops from hailstones and winds. They are a great way to grow crops that require warmth. They are also easy to assemble and do not require hardstanding. They can be placed on uneven soil or slopes. They can also be equipped with gutter systems to collect rainwater. In addition, polytunnels can be positioned to help reduce direct sunlight on crops. They also provide better air circulation, thereby preventing condensation and mould growth.
While greenhouses can be used for a variety of crops, polytunnels are better suited for growing fruit and vegetables. A good quality polytunnel will last for years, while a greenhouse may need to be replaced every ten years.
Polytunnels are also cheaper than greenhouses. They are often available for under PS200, and you can find cheap polytunnel kits at garden centres. They can also be purchased online. The best type of polytunnel to use is a glass model, which will retain heat longer than plastic coated models.
Polytunnels are easier to use than greenhouses. They can be put up in a relatively short time. They can also be modified to provide the best output for a particular crop. They can be equipped with foggers, which reduce the temperature of a crop in hot conditions. They can also be equipped with gutter systems, which collect rainwater and direct it straight into the water tank.
A basic 2.5m x 2m polytunnel is a good starting point, and can be purchased for PS50. This is the equivalent of an 8ft x 6ft greenhouse. If you are looking for a more advanced structure, you can upgrade to a bigger one. Larger structures require planning permission, so you may want to start with a smaller structure until you have established your crops.
A good quality polytunnel will last for at least fifteen years. It is also easy to adapt to grow more crops, as it can be easily extended with hoops. They can be used to grow all kinds of plants, including herbs and seedlings. You can also buy specialist plastic with anti-fog properties, which will reduce condensation.
In addition to protecting plants from weather conditions, polytunnels also help to extend the growing season. A good quality polytunnel can help you extend the growing season by about six months. It can also be a great way to grow several crops to maturity, which will result in a larger yield.