What are Poly Tunnels?

Polytunnels UK wide, are designed to offer protection and create a recognised micro-climate for crops and plants, they come in different sizes and shapes ranging from small poly tunnel models, to larger single to multi-span tunnels which are mostly adopted for commercial use. Unlike a greenhouse, poly tunnels can be relocated and extended whenever the need arises, moreover they are easier and less costly to build, as they help to give gardeners control over the temperature and humidity of the tunnel, thus making it possible to grow plants that cannot be grown in the open outdoor environment. Polytunnels UK wide have gained a great deal of popularity and adoption amongst gardeners and hobbyists for the immense benefits they offer.

How do Poly Tunnels work?

The materials used to produce the coverings help the interior of the tunnels retain heat, this is mainly a result of solar rays, the humidity is confined in the structure and by the polytunnel cover, this creates a microclimate for the produce contained within the polytunnel.

Many polytunnels UK wide, used by commercial growers, market gardeners and farmers are big enough to offer room for harvesting machines and working platforms in a bid to automate production, this is commonly practiced in commercial businesses.

Are there many polytunnels UK manufacturers & suppliers?

There are quite a few polytunnels UK manufacturers and suppliers that sell durable and qualitative products at affordable prices, there is a fair range of prices for polytunnels, depending on their various sizes, make and model, however, the big question is whether or not a cheap polytunnel is up to the job.

It can prove to be far more beneficial to buy from a credible source even if the cost is slightly higher than buying from an unreliable online source, which might well offer buyers a substandard product. It might not necessarily be the most inexpensive option, but it will be strong enough to offer protection to the plants or crops as they have to be of a certain standard to deal with the UK’s weather conditions, always talk to the supplier first and ask them relevant questions, explain what you are wanting to grow. It can be important to budget for polytunnel accessories as well when purchasing.

Poly Tunnels maintenance

Poly tunnels are sturdy and durable, but like other products, they are also prone to damage from violent weather conditions and might need repair or refurbishment once in a while. The part that’ll need maintenance and checks is the polytunnel cover. The cover should be strong in terms of thickness, as this determines how many years it’ll last. Heavy duty and UV stabalised covers are available.

As most polytunnel kits are for outdoor use, they’ll require normal maintenance and will need to be monitored after storms. To prevent any potential extreme damage, any small tear or rip on the cover should be repaired immediately, to prevent it from becoming worse and perhaps costlier.

Aside from the covers, the hoops, frames and timber of the polytunnel build should be checked now and again for damage, misuse and wear and tear, this can help prevent degradation, and with repairs and refurbishment, a polytunnel can last for many years. The frames are made from steel and will last up to 20 plus years, the polytunnel covers come in various thicknesses for strength and with a film covering in Microns put directly onto the polythene, this stabalises a cover and protects it from becoming brittle from the Sun’s UV rays, as well as helping to produce a known microclimate within. You may also have seen the various colours they are available in, for specific uses.

In conclusion

Essentially poly tunnels protect crops and plants from adverse weather conditions, more reason why polytunnels UK wide users are employing it for commercial farming, as it enables them to have control over the climate inside of the tunnel and the protection afforded to the produce.

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