Plastic Film Greenhouse: Building Affordable Greenhouses

What is a plastic film greenhouse?

This is simply a greenhouse with a plastic film covering it. The plastic film options commonly used include polyethylene, copolymer plastic, polycarbonate plastic, and polyvinyl plastic. Each of the materials will have several benefits to offer to the users, thus the need to take a keen look at each type of greenhouse material. 

What are the types of plastic films for a greenhouse?

Here are the common types of plastic films that can be used for a greenhouse. 

Polythene is a synthetic film.

Polyethylene is the lightest greenhouse plastic (PE). This material comes in huge rolls that may be readily trimmed to fit your greenhouse frame. 

Polyethylene film comes in various thicknesses and lifespans. Each has its own maker’s grade. The cheapest and thinnest is one year, while the thickest and priciest is four years. 

UV rays quickly damage polyethylene film, so check for a film with built-in UV protection. Some polyethylene films contain compounds that inhibit glass condensation. 

Vinyl chloride is a polymer

PVC and polyethylene films have many similarities. The more expensive PVC film can last up to five years. Here are other features of the material;

• The PVC film can be 4 to 6 feet wide. 
• PVC film is prone to absorbing dust from the air. 
• You’ll need to wash the film a few times a year in dry places. 
• There’s UV-protected PVC and anti-condensation PVC.

Two-wall PVC

The frame of a greenhouse can be reinforced with two layers of plastic film, one of which is PE or PVC. This will prolong the greenhouse’s life. If you’re using double-walled plastic film, a fan will be needed to blow air between the two sheets. 

A single PE or PVC layer permits 85% light into a greenhouse. This is the most efficient greenhouse ever. An extra layer of the plastic film reduces it by 77%.

Polycarbonate

This is a great choice for strong greenhouses. Polycarbonate film is perfect. Some polycarbonate is smooth on the outside. 

The greenhouse’s polycarbonate windows let in up to 91 percent of the required light. Polycarbonate is also impact resistant for 15 years, making it quite durable. However, polycarbonate is easily scratched so take good care of it.

How can you pick the right plastic film for your greenhouse?

Picking the right material can mean the best performance greenhouse. Here is how to do it. 

Thickness

The one-year co-poly film is available in three, four, and six mil thicknesses. Narrow tunnels and overwintering cottages are commonly covered for a year with 3 or 4 mil film. For long-term use, consider the greenhouse-grade material, which is only available in a thickness of 6 mil, is the best option.

Condensate management

This wetting agent acts as an anti-drip or anti-condensate agent by lowering surface tension, allowing condensation to flow rather than forming droplets. It can be sprayed on or absorbed into the film’s core, and it lasts for a few years.

Condensation droplets impede light transmission and can cause disease concerns when they drip onto plants. To prevent the formation of early morning and late afternoon fog, anti-fogging additives can be added to the greenhouse.

How is heat loss at night is reduced?

This substance prevents radiant heat from escaping from the greenhouse. When the sky is cloudy, the savings can range from 10% to 20%, depending on the greenhouse’s temperature. To preserve evening heat, infrared (IR) film is always used as the inner layer in double-layer poly systems.

According to studies, the infrared film can improve plant color and/or compactness while also speeding up crop development. This is most likely due to an increase in nighttime plant temperatures. A heated greenhouse pays for itself in a matter of weeks for a few extra cents per square foot.

How is daytime heat gain is reduced?

In areas with plenty of sunlight, blocking a portion of the infrared spectrum can reduce the interior temperature by 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Pigments can be added to the exterior layer of copolymer film to reflect or absorb near-infrared energy that plants do not require in order to slow their development rate.

According to research, the greater the outside temperature, the greater the temperature difference that can be achieved by using these films. Reduced cooling costs, increased worker comfort, decreased watering requirements, less stress on plants and better-tasting fruit are just a few advantages.

Sophisticated dispersion

Light diffusion is a feature that manufacturers have recently added to their products. This method also reduces burning and increases the amount of light that reaches the lower leaves. It is especially important for crops that are taller than 6 feet. Diffused light reduces both fungus spores and insect populations.

Light transmission

Depending on the additive type, the amount of PAR light transmitted through a film varies. This ranges from 88 to 91 percent for UV-stabilized film, 82 to 87 percent for infrared/anti-condensate film, and 87 to 88 percent for diffusion. Plastic degradation, dust, and smog can all obstruct light transmission even more. During the winter or when the sky is cloudy, a “rule of thumb” states that for every 1% increase in light, plant growth will increase by 1%.

Some farmers update their plastic every year during the short winter days in order to gain a few percent more light. Some manufacturers offer an anti-static layer that repels dirt and pollution.

What are the flooring recommendations for a plastic film greenhouse?

The floors of greenhouses are typically made of a variety of materials. Everything boils down to how you farm and what crops you want to grow. If you intend to use a type of rock, the landscape cloth should be laid down. Weeds will be prevented from growing there as a result of this.

• Crushed rocks

Crushed or pressed rock is an excellent surface for hydroponics, grow bags, and tabletop cultivation. The drainage is excellent, and the soil is very easy to rake. Grow bags have numerous advantages too that you can enjoy using.

• Pea gravel 

In greenhouses, pea gravel can be used in hydroponic systems and propagation tables. It drains well and provides a pleasant working surface. Weeds can begin to grow after a few years.

It will take time for a silage tarp and soil amendment to help control weeds, but they will. Before you begin building, it is critical that you conduct a soil test and change the soil.

Raised beds are an excellent way to improve drainage and keep growing areas separate from walkways. Work can be made easier by using landscape cloth and mulch between plant beds to make it easier to get things done.

• Concrete

Concrete can be used to improve hydroponic systems and propagation tunnels. It’s not cheap, and there’s a chance of water pooling. Standing for an extended period on this type of floor can be taxing on your body.

Because water can damage the wood, weeds can grow between the planks of a wood floor. This isn’t a good plan.

Landscape fabric becomes spongy when wet and cannot be used as a floor option. Raking the leaves and other debris can be difficult even after cutting or harvesting.

• Mulching

Mulching your paths is a good idea if you intend to grow in existing soil, grow bags, or raised beds. This will keep weeds at bay and provide you with a somewhat dry walking surface. 

Mulching is permitted as it improves soil and stores carbon. Depending on the type of mulch used, the greenhouse floor will need to be replaced.

If you plan to grow food in raised beds, use landscape cloth under your mulch to keep weeds at bay. Choose this method to keep the rows in the same place year after year. You can lay down the fabric on the paths now and decide later, as long as you haven’t made any final decisions about the inside of the house. Cover the outside of your house with cloth before you begin construction.

Should you use insect netting in a plastic film greenhouse?

Insect netting is typically made of polypropylene that has been woven into a mesh. Pesticides like this one have been developed to protect important market crops, trees, and flowers from pests. Pests can damage crops’ leaves and fruits and spread disease and reduce harvests.

Insect netting has small holes that allow air and water to pass through while keeping bugs out. Neats keep insects, animals, and rats at bay, as well as hail and other potentially harmful elements.

Different types have various mesh sizes, which can be determined by the bugs you want to keep out or the pests in your area. To determine mesh size, count the number of holes in each square inch of netting. 

Do not allow thrips to enter the net.

The insect netting can help with keeping the garden free of whiteflies, aphids, fruit flies, and leafminers.

This technology eliminates the need for pesticides. It provides additional protection for your plants. Another protection method is to have strips of aluminum sewn into the net. Pests can’t get through the netting because the light strips make it difficult for them to see.

Reflective material provides dappled light and shade to the plants, allowing them to stay cool in hot weather. To prevent deterioration, anti-dust and UV stabilizers are applied to the netting. There are also high-quality poly plastic greenhouse covers with the same features.

You should keep beneficial bugs in your garden.

Pests such as spider mites and aphids, can be deliberately introduced into your growing space to keep pests at bay. Green lacewing larvae and ladybug larvae are both effective at eliminating soft-bodied bugs. Both of these lovely and beneficial predators, on the other hand, will flee if their habitat isn’t suitable.

Insect Netting is a useful tool for seed production.

Insect netting can be used to keep pollinators and other beneficial insects in line. Seed producers will be pleased because cross-pollination will be less common as a result, which is good news for them. Then, construct hoops large enough for pollinators to fly over the crops you want pollinated. Then place them in the row that is protected by the hoops.

Because it is the end of the week, you can switch to saving seed from a different species by covering all but the one from which you are saving. While you wait for seed heads to grow, protect your seeds from cross-pollination.

You can hang insect netting on the rows of your garden with the help of hoops. The netting is constantly removed and replaced during harvest and regular weeding, so the increased structure is beneficial. These plants serve as a guide when the net is set up. They also keep the plants safe from net snags and other harm.

When making small hoops, you can use fiberglass or wire with a larger gauge. A row should be able to stick into the ground like an arch. The hoops provide a structure for the nets and plants, protecting them from harm. You can make larger plant protection hoops that can be used on a larger scale by using one of our hoop benders. Then, our snap-on clamps can be used to secure row covers and bug nets to our crops. To keep the bottom of the net in place, use rocks, compost, or sandbags. Pests will not be able to crawl through the holes as a result of this.

Cover your plants to protect them from bug damage.

Row covers, such as insect netting or frost blankets, can be used to protect crops and flowers from plant disease-carrying insects. Coverings will keep your crops safe if you apply them at the right time in their growth cycle. Because they can be rolled up and stored when not in use, these coverings are simple to use. Row coverings are an excellent addition to your IPM (Integrated Pest Management) strategy for keeping pests at bay on your farm.

What is the difference between a caterpillar and a high plastic film tunnel greenhouse?

High tunnels are more expensive than caterpillar tunnels, but they are also stronger and more durable. There is a need for both types of structures in the world of gardening, but there are significant differences that must be considered by the person who grows them.

For a long time, covered growing spaces have been used to extend the growing season in almost any climate. There is a good middle ground between greenhouses, which can be quite costly, and cold frames, which can be quite inexpensive (which can be too small for most market gardeners).

The name “caterpillar tunnel” refers to its resembling a caterpillar. A stake and rope hold it together. It is divided into sections and has cone-shaped ends that touch the ground at each end. 

The nylon rope that runs from side to side between the poles holds the plastic to the ground (where they touch the ground). It is the cheapest and quickest solution because it lacks built-in endwalls and can be moved. Many market gardeners begin by building a caterpillar tunnel. They frequently convert it into a high-tunnel greenhouse.

End walls, doors, and side walls are all present in a high tunnel or greenhouse. Instead of ropes, the structure is held together by a metal hip board, side bracing, and purlins. The greenhouse is held in place by metal ground posts. 

A metal lock channel and PVC spring wire aid in the stability and dependability of the system. Side walls that roll up and down with hand cranks are common, making it easy to get fresh air. Because it is more durable and long-lasting than other options, this type of infrastructure is a good long-term investment. 

Coverings for greenhouses that can be used in Caterpiller Tunnels and High Tunnels

There are numerous methods for protecting your basketball hoop. The following are four of the most common ways to cover a greenhouse:

How much does it cost to manufacture caterpillar tunnels?

A caterpillar tunnel costs about $1.00 per square foot to construct. Because of the pandemic’s scarcity and transportation issues, raw material prices have skyrocketed recently. Prices should return to around $0.55 per square foot within the next year or two. That was the case a few years ago. 

Because caterpillar tunnels are inexpensive, they are frequently used as a grower’s first weather-protected area.

Building high tunnels is an expensive endeavor.

Many farmers who want to grow more year-round may begin with a low-cost DIY greenhouse kit. There are basic kits available for less than $500 built with materials available at your local hardware store. 

Which are the best ground covers for a plastic film greenhouse?

Ground covers and row covers can be used to protect crops in a variety of ways on a farm. Without the use of chemicals, ground covers can be used to keep weeds at bay on farms, gardens, and greenhouses. On farms and gardens, this can save time and money. 

Paths can be kept safe by placing them between vegetable plant rows. Ground coverings can be used to keep weeds from growing around your potted plants if they have drainage holes in the bottom.

Row covers protect crops from eroding soil and pests such as deer, rabbits, and bugs. They also provide wind protection. Farmers get a head start on the season because they help to warm up the soil before planting. 

Row covers are used by farmers to protect their crops from damage during the winter. In this manner, they will be able to plant their crops easily in the spring.

Ground covers can be used in the garden to keep weeds at bay.

The protective ground covers available are typically made of polypropylene plastic and placed on the ground to keep weeds at bay. The two most common types of ground cover used in intensive farming are silage tarps and landscape cloth.

There are ways to keep both types of covers in place, such as using sandbags or staples. Fabric staples or pins are the best way to keep the ground cover fabric in place while it grows. Don’t poke holes in your silage tarp if you want to keep it as safe as possible.

It usually takes a lot of effort to keep weeds out of a greenhouse, whether you’re starting from scratch or working on an existing greenhouse that already has weeds. It is critical to install some kind of weed barrier on any long-term routes in order to save time and money in the long run. Before you begin making a greenhouse, learn how to lay landscape fabric.

Landscape ground cover fabric helps keep weeds at bay between rows and raised beds in an old building. After you’ve finished, sweep away any fabric that was used to cover your greenhouse floor. It can serve as an underlayment for additional greenhouse flooring, such as gravel. It can also be used to keep weeds from growing in the greenhouse.

To get rid of weeds before building a house, use regular tillage or the solarization method. Plastic ground cover should be laid down around the outside of a high-walled greenhouse to keep weeds out. You won’t have to worry about damaging the floor of your greenhouse with tools like a weed whacker.

Fabric for plastic ground coverage

The ground cover fabric is made of UV-resistant, porous, and long-lasting woven polypropylene plastic. The best way to use the Heavy Duty Landscape Fabric is to cover the bottom of walkways, high tunnels, greenhouses, and between rows of crops.

Farming is an excellent application for plastic ground cover. The following are the top five.

• A Mulch Weed Control Flooring Plant Spacing Template for the Garden Moisture will remain in this case. (To avoid fraying, we recommend burning holes rather than cutting.)
• Using a propane torch, poke holes in the greenhouse ground cover cloth. You can burn the fabric instead of cutting it to make a hole that is exactly the right size. When you’re in this phase, make sure to wear flame-resistant gloves and a hose with a built-in sprayer.

• Floating row covers are an excellent way to keep your garden crops protected from the elements.
• Frost blankets have long been used to protect plants from the cold and keep pests at bay. Spun-bonding is the method used to create them. Its porous construction allows not only light but also air, water, and nutrients to enter.

They can protect crops from frost for up to ten degrees or more. Crops can be kept from freezing for that long with frost blankets weighing 4 ounces. The thick material only allows about 40% of the light to pass through.

Seedlings can benefit from row covers.

Row covers made of spin-bonded polypropylene are frequently used to protect young plants from the elements. On the other hand, these plants are excellent for seed germination and light covering because they do not protect well against frost. 

Covering the rows with row covers allows the seeds to grow more easily. This is far superior to traditional mulching methods such as hay or straw. During the early stages of growth, it is critical that the soil remains moist at all times. 

After that, wet the bed and cover it with a cloth. When the new seedlings grow, the cloth helps maintain the moisture level, which benefits the plants. The cover allows water and air to pass through while keeping the seedbed moist. This also means that the fabric can keep UV rays away from you.

How can you maintain a plastic film greenhouse?

Greenhouses are quick to set up and can help you grow more food all year. However, this does not mean that they should not be cared for. Some things you can do to help your house last longer and stay in good condition.

Examine your greenhouse for any problems that may be lurking around the corner. Set a time to do this. This should be done once a month and after major storms. In this case, a little forethought can go a long way. 

Any rips or holes in the plastic and clogged drainage ditches or plastic loosening should be investigated. In addition, anything near your greenhouse that could cause damage, such as falling branches or children riding their bikes against the side of the house, should be investigated.

Here are more ideas for greenhouse maintenance

• The plastic you use should not be cheap.
• Certain parts can be easily tightened thanks to lock channels and spring wire.
• When the weather is bad, plastic that isn’t tightly woven is more likely to break.
• Any bare PVC should not come into contact with the plastic. You must keep PVC away from the plastic in order to get your warranty back.

Additional care for your greenhouse

When the wind picks up, make sure to repair any holes as soon as possible. Farmers like to keep sharp objects in their pockets at all times.

Chemicals should not be sprayed on plastic. If you must spray your plants, use a more focused stream rather than misting to keep the water from spreading.

Turn off the ventilation fans while spraying, so you don’t have to keep them running. Mild soap and plenty of water are the best ways to clean up chemical spills. This is especially important when it comes to sulfur and chlorine, both of which can damage the plastic and void your warranty if present in high concentrations.

Always do the proper installation of accessories 

Check that the screws and bolts are in the proper positions. If they need to be lubricated, so moveable parts and hinges should be lubricated. Do whatever is necessary to secure the batten tape and coil up the side ropes.

Maintain the cleanliness of all drainage trenches and lines. If you need to dig new trenches, do so in the fall when the rains begin.

You should sweep away any snow that falls during a snowstorm. When it rains heavily, keep an eye out for puddles on your plastic and tighten it as needed. After it rains, make sure storm debris does not end up in the ditches. You should sweep up leaves and branches that have fallen to the ground.

If hurricane-force winds are expected in your area, remove the plastic from your structure.

Just like that, you should have an easier time maintaining your plastic film greenhouse. You can do more research to find out more ways of caring for your greenhouse.