Year-Round Gardening with Polytunnels
- Tips and Tricks
How do I even plan my gardening when there are four seasons happening in one day...?
In Ireland, where the weather can be both a friend and a foe, gardening enthusiasts often face challenges in cultivating their favourite plants throughout the year. Thankfully, with the rise in popularity of polytunnels, avid gardeners have discovered a game-changing solution to extend their growing season and protect their crops from harsh weather conditions. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of polytunnels and provide you with valuable tips and tricks to ensure success in year-round gardening.
Understanding the power of polytunnels
Polytunnels are lightweight, semi-circular structures covered in polyethylene plastic, designed to create a controlled environment for plants. They act as a shield against adverse weather elements such as heavy rain, hale, wind, frost, and excessive heat. Additionally, polytunnels provide protection from pests and diseases, allowing gardeners to cultivate a wider variety of crops with greater success.
Tips and tricks to maximise your harvest
Choosing the right location
The first step to successful year-round gardening with polytunnels is selecting the optimal location. Choose a site that receives ample sunlight throughout the day, as sunlight is crucial for the growth and development of plants. Ensure that the area is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other issues.
Preparing the soil
Before setting up your polytunnel, it’s essential to prepare the soil properly. Start by removing any weeds and debris from the area. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve its structure and fertility. Although not a necessity, it may be a good idea to conduct a soil test to determine its pH level and nutrient content, and make necessary amendments based on the specific requirements of the crops you intend to grow.
Maximizing ventilation and air circulation
Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining optimal growing conditions inside the polytunnel, especially during the warmer months. Install vents or windows at both ends of the tunnel to facilitate airflow and prevent overheating. Consider using automatic vent openers that respond to temperature changes, ensuring consistent ventilation without manual intervention.
Implementing seasonal crop rotation
To make the most of your polytunnel space and prevent soil depletion, practice seasonal crop rotation. Rotate your crops annually to different sections of the tunnel, following a systematic plan that considers each crop’s nutrient needs and growth habits. Crop rotation helps minimize the risk of pest and disease build-up while promoting soil health and fertility.
Protecting against frost and cold temperatures
In regions like Ireland, where frost and sudden drops in temperatures are common, protecting plants from frost damage is paramount. Invest in frost protection fleece or cloches to cover vulnerable crops during cold spells, especially in the early spring and late autumn. Consider using thermal blankets or row covers inside the polytunnel for additional insulation during the winter months.
With proper planning and care, polytunnels offer a versatile and effective solution for year-round gardening in Ireland. They can also serve an additional role as a secure, dry storage, i.e. for gardening tools or bikes. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this blog post, you can create an optimal growing environment inside your polytunnel and enjoy a bountiful harvest throughout the seasons. Whether you’re growing vegetables, fruits, flowers, herbs…or simply need some extra storage for large items, a sturdy, reliable polytunnel will serve you for years to come.
Start your year-round gardening journey with our quality polytunnels and unlock the full potential of your garden today.
Check out our top 3 recommendations for year-round polytunnels
Super Pro Heavy Duty Polytunnel
6 x 3.5 x 1.95m
- “High Eaves” straight wall design
- Stand-up working space across the entire tunnel width
- Superior walk-in space & extra cultivating area
- High quality & durable materials
- Dual-zippered
- UV protected
- Cross-woven rip-stop PE cover
- Ground skirt to anchor & weight down the polytunnel
- Speedy construction with easy to read assembly guide
- 600 x 350 x 195cm (19.6 x 11.4 x 6.3 ft)
- 32mm thick galvanised frame
- 200cm wide hinged metal framed door
Polytunnel Pro Galvanised
6 x 3 x 2m
- 600 x 300 x 200cm / 19.6 x 9.8 x 6.5 ft
- Door size: 89 x 192cm / 35 x 75.5 inches
- 25mm thick, fully galvanised, non-rust frame
- Extremely strong and durable
- 6-section frame design
- Full ground bars
- Diagonal storm-bracing bars
- Two longitudinal roof bars
- One large roll-up window on the wide
- Integral fly net
- UV open, giving natural UV levels
- Speedy construction with an easy to read assembly guide
Polytunnel Pro Galvanised
4 x 2 x 2m
- 4 x 2 x 2m / 13.1 x 6.5 x 6.5 ft
- Door size: 89 x 192cm / 35 x 75.5 inches
- 25mm thick galvanised frame
- Super strong & durable
- Fully galvanised non-rust steel frame
- 4-section frame design
- 8m2 of workspace
- Full ground bars
- Diagonal storm bracing bars
- Two longitudinal roof bars
- 4 large roll-up windows on the side
- Integral fly net
- Metal door frame
- UV open, giving natural UV levels
- Speedy construction with easy to read assembly guide
