Hoop House Plastic vs Greenhouse Film What’s the Difference?
In the sun drenched city of Long Beach, California, where urban gardening and sustainable agriculture are on the rise, selecting the appropriate covering for your greenhouse is crucial. Whether you’re a hobbyist cultivating heirloom tomatoes or a commercial grower producing year round crops, the choice between hoop house plastic and greenhouse film can significantly impact plant health, energy efficiency, and overall productivity.
What Are Hoop House Plastic and Greenhouse Film?
Hoop House Plastic
Hoop house plastic typically refers to polyethylene (PE) sheeting used to cover hoop style greenhouses. These structures consist of a series of hoops often made from metal or PVC over which the plastic is stretched to create a protective environment for plants. The plastic is usually 6 mil thickness (approximately 0.006 inches) and is favored for its affordability and ease of installation.
Greenhouse Film
Greenhouse film is a broader term encompassing various plastic coverings designed for greenhouses. These films can be made from different materials, including polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polycarbonate, each offering distinct properties in terms of durability, light transmission, and insulation. Greenhouse films often come with additives that enhance UV resistance, light diffusion, and thermal retention.
Which Materials Are Commonly Used?
Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene is the most commonly used material for both hoop house plastics and greenhouse films. It is lightweight, flexible, and cost effective. UV treated polyethylene can last between 3 to 4 years, making it a popular choice for growers seeking a balance between performance and affordability.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
PVC films are more durable than standard polyethylene, with a lifespan of up to 5 years. They offer excellent light transmission and are more resistant to tearing and punctures. However, PVC can become brittle in extreme cold and is generally more expensive than polyethylene.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate panels are rigid and provide superior insulation and durability, often lasting up to 15 years. They are ideal for permanent greenhouse structures but are more expensive and less flexible, making them less suitable for hoop houses.
Who Should Choose Hoop House Plastic or Greenhouse Film?
Hoop House Plastic
- Beginner Gardeners: Ideal for those new to greenhouse gardening due to its low cost and ease of installation.
- Seasonal Growers: Suitable for growers who need temporary structures for specific growing seasons.
- Budget Conscious Operations: Perfect for small scale operations where cost is a significant factor.
Greenhouse Film
- Commercial Growers: Recommended for those requiring durable, long lasting coverings with specific light and thermal properties.
- Year Round Cultivators: Essential for growers maintaining crops throughout the year, needing consistent environmental control.
- Specialty Crop Producers: Beneficial for those cultivating plants with specific light and temperature requirements.
Where Are These Materials Best Utilized?
Hoop House Plastic
In Long Beach, with its mild Mediterranean climate, hoop house plastic is effective for extending growing seasons and protecting plants from occasional cool temperatures and coastal winds. Its affordability makes it accessible for urban gardeners and community gardens.
Greenhouse Film
Greenhouse films are better suited for more permanent structures requiring enhanced durability and environmental control. In areas with higher UV exposure or where specific humidity and temperature levels must be maintained, greenhouse films provide the necessary protection and stability.
Why Does the Choice Matter?
Selecting the appropriate covering impacts:
- Plant Health: Proper light diffusion and UV protection can enhance photosynthesis and reduce plant stress.
- Energy Efficiency: Materials with better insulation reduce heating and cooling costs.
- Longevity and Maintenance: Durable materials decrease the frequency of replacements and repairs.
- Cost Effectiveness: Balancing initial investment with long term benefits is crucial for sustainable operations.
When Should You Replace or Upgrade?
Hoop House Plastic
Typically requires replacement every 3 to 4 years due to UV degradation and potential damage from environmental factors.
Greenhouse Film
Depending on the material, greenhouse films can last between 5 to 15 years. Regular inspections for wear, tear, and UV damage are essential to determine the appropriate time for replacement.
How Do These Materials Perform?
Durability
- Hoop House Plastic: Moderate durability; susceptible to tearing in high winds.
- Greenhouse Film: High durability; resistant to environmental stresses and longer lifespan.
Light Transmission
- Hoop House Plastic: Transmits about 85 90% of sunlight.
- Greenhouse Film: Varies by type; some offer diffused light to reduce hotspots and promote even plant growth.
Insulation
- Hoop House Plastic: Provides basic insulation; less effective in extreme temperatures.
- Greenhouse Film: Enhanced insulation properties, especially in multi layered or specialized films.
Whose Needs Are Best Met by Each Option?
- Urban Gardeners: Hoop house plastic meets the needs of those with limited space and resources.
- Commercial Farmers: Greenhouse films cater to the demands of large scale operations requiring consistent environmental control.
- Educational Institutions: Both options can be utilized, depending on the scale and purpose of the greenhouse.
Conclusion
In Long Beach, California, the decision between hoop house plastic and greenhouse film hinges on factors such as budget, scale, and specific growing requirements. Hoop house plastic offers an economical and flexible solution for seasonal and small scale growers, while greenhouse films provide durability and enhanced environmental control for year round and commercial operations. By understanding the distinct characteristics and applications of each material, growers can make informed choices that align with their objectives and the unique climatic conditions of their locale.