Is a Greenhouse or a High Tunnel Right for You?
As the hot summer days turn to cool autumn nights, many gardeners are gearing up to winterize their gardens. However, some will keep the gardens going through the winter with either a high tunnel or greenhouse. While high tunnels may look like greenhouses, they are pretty different. If you are still figuring out which is right for you, we will compare and contrast both to make it easier.
High Tunnels
High tunnels serve a couple of purposes. They allow people to get into the ground and start producing crops earlier. They can also help people extend the growing season into the fall or winter depending on your location.
High tunnels are constructed of polyethylene, plastic, or fabric-covered hoop structures to protect plants from severe weather and extend the growing seasons. Plants in high tunnels are grown in raised beds or directly in the ground. Additionally, you can assemble a high tunnel for a fraction of the cost of a greenhouse.
The tunnel has large openings on both ends that allow enough air to circulate, giving plenty of ventilation for your plants. Because there is no automated heating or ventilation in a high tunnel, they are used mainly in mild temperature regions to increase the temperature in early spring, fall, and sometimes winter.
Greenhouse
Greenhouses offer the flexibility to grow plants and vegetables all year round. They are usually constructed of polycarbonate, glass, and metal, and the plants are grown in pots above the ground. Additionally, a greenhouse is equipped with electricity for automatic heating and ventilation.
A greenhouse will provide the same value as a high tunnel but with a higher level of durability. They can also take on more punishment from the wind and snow and keep out the cold. Their durability comes with an added price tag, but this can be offset by growing your plants and vegetables all year round.
Watering Needs
Like your outdoor garden, when you are planting your seedlings, a fine mist on your hose nozzle or wand will help you establish the roots. A sequence of lighter passes allows the water to penetrate the soil. Another option is our soaker hose.
Our soaker hose allows you to get water where you need it. Weave the Flat Soaker Hose around the base of your plants and slowly water only the areas you need. Your plants will grow strong and lush with minimal run-off as the water slowly seeps along the length of the hose. You can easily set the hose to run along a row(s) of vegetables.
Once your plants are established, you can add a multi-adjustable sprinkler, like our Garden Watering Kit. Conserve water by independently adjusting the spray angle from 0-360 degrees and the flow of the water coming out with the built-in flow control.
Finally, to top it off, you can automate your watering chores with a digital water timer. You can schedule specific days and times you would like your sprinkler(s) to turn on. Set it and forget it!
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