What is a poly tunnel used for?
They are used by gardeners and commercial growers to provide all year-round protection for plants, crops and equipment. Polytunnels act in a similar way to a traditional greenhouse. They trap sunlight and create a warmer, sheltered climate inside. The biggest difference between greenhouses and polytunnels is the cost. Compared to greenhouses, polytunnel offer really good value. This is especially true if you’re looking for something larger in size, as you get more growth space for your money.Heat retention: Greenhouses often require more heat during the winter months, whereas a polytunnel covered with a Thermal polythene and without the drafts of a greenhouse, can help if you’re considering over-wintering crops.The most important thing of all is to to construct the polytunnel in an area where it will see plenty of sunlight. One of the great advantages of a polytunnel is that it extends the growing season for gardeners, but it can only do so if it’s positioned to make the most of the available sunlight at any time of year.The most profitable crops to grow in a polytunnel often include high-value, quick-turnover vegetables and herbs such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and basil. These can be grown intensively and harvested multiple times throughout the growing season.Which is best for growing plants and crops – polytunnel or greenhouse? Both structures are great for growing all kinds of crops. It’s what they’re built to do and really there’s no difference between the two as both provide the ventilation and growing conditions needed for all kinds of plants and crops to thrive.
How long does a poly tunnel last?
A polytunnel cover should last for around 7 years, which makes it a fairly small part of the plastic consumption of a Westerner. The cover can be recycled and be made into smaller covers for cloche hoops and cold frames and a host of other applications around the garden. Polytunnel covers do not last for ever, however careful you may be. In addition, light transmission decreases with age, and covers eventually become brittle and crack when exposed to sunlight.What Are the Disadvantages of Having a Polytunnel? Polytunnels have their own set of challenges to think about: They’re not as tough. While modern polytunnels are durable, the plastic cover doesn’t match the longevity of glass.
How much does it cost to build a poly tunnel?
You can purchase a high-quality commercial grade polytunnel for under £400. A 10×12′ unit provides incredible value for money. Especially when compared to a similar sized greenhouse. And that size of polytunnel is ideal for gardens, allotments and small holdings. The Final Verdict: Polytunnel or Greenhouse? While greenhouses have their benefits, polytunnels provide an affordable, flexible, and efficient solution for year-round growing. Haygrove offers both small and large polytunnels, replacement covers, and accessories to suit every gardener’s needs.Here’s how they compare: Greenhouses: Glass or polycarbonate greenhouses are excellent at retaining heat, which can be a major advantage for heat-loving plants. Polytunnels: While they heat up quickly, polytunnels also lose heat faster than greenhouses.
Are poly tunnels worth it?
Polytunnels are wonderful structures and good value compared to greenhouses. Once erected they will be there for several years, so check out my tips before buying. While other factors might influence your decision, such as the need to place the polytunnel along a site boundary, the ideal orientation is typically either on an east-west or north-south axis. If the long side faces south, one side will receive more shade than the other.Aspect Ideally, your polytunnel should be on a south facing site which can get the full benefit of all the sunlight which is available in your local area.