Light Polytunnel Covers vs Heavy Duty Polytunnels
The range of quality manufactured polytunnel coverings is substantial, for both niche and commercial growers, heavy duty polytunnels are a must. Whereas garden and domestic polytunnels require a standard clear or opaque covering.
Can you buy different types of covers for your polytunnel? Getting into gardening and growing crops in a polytunnel can be a bit of a minefield for some of us. Needless to say, it is best to seek advice. Once you have decided on the size and type of polytunnel you need, it is advisable to find out the best cover type and why different polytunnel coverings, are so important to crops. Which one, is the right one for your growing needs?
Different types of Polytunnels and Coverings
First, you need to know and understand, that there are a few different types of tunnels. You can choose differently shaped ones, some polytunnels with straight sides or opt for curved sides, or different heights. Most domestic growers opt for curved sides. Straight sides are popular with different types of professional produce growers, that need to produce specialist types of crops. Access doors, vents, flaps or windows can all be configured to suit a customer bespoke build requirements.
You also need to think about the durability and strength of your covers. Heavy duty polytunnels cost more money, but they do last longer. If you are planning on growing more expensive or exotic plants in your tunnel, it is best to spend slightly more money right from the start that match your growing purpose.
The Best Covers
What are the best polytunnel coverings? The best coverings come with a longer warranty period. Ideally, the covers for your tunnel should come with a 5 to 8 year guaranteed warranty.
Fungus growth can become a problem in polytunnels. When you want to protect your plants from mould, or fungus, investing in anti-drip covers is the best option to install in your polytunnel.
Covers for heavy duty polytunnels, can also include covers with fitted netting as extra protection. When located in warmer parts of the UK, you should think about buying covers that are UV stabilised. A UV film filter helps to protect your crops from the effects high UV levels, which can have an effect on sensitive crops.
Covers For Colder Climates
There are also polytunnel coverings that help to retain the heat better. If you live in Scotland or colder climates, you want to think about other forms of covers for heavy duty polytunnels. A good choice are thermic covers, that help contain and hold onto the heat generated in the tunnel.
Don’t forget about the extras you will need such as ventilation, temperature and irrigation controls.
What About Different Colours of Covers?
Yes, you can buy different from a selection of coloured and clear polytunnel coverings. What is the benefit of the various colours? Every colour, helps to support a different microclimate and protection. Colours of covers vary, from clear to opaque to white green to darker green and even black. Your choice of colour depends on what you are going to grow. If you grow mushrooms, you should opt for a green and white or darker green colour covering. Netting and animal housing covers are also available. Polytunnel suppliers also offer decorative walkways and canopies, to enhance their business entrance and other uses.
Finally
Heavy duty polytunnels are useful when it comes to producing a more extensive range of crops and are for commercial growers and niche producers. Many of the available covers are slightly thicker and more durable. This helps to protect your crops from the weather and accidental damage.
Choosing covers for the first time is often challenging. When you are not sure, it is best to ask for professional advice from a polytunnel coverings supplier and recovering service.
Read More:
Finding the Right Polytunnel Supplier for Your Needs
Can I Buy a Polytunnel Kit?