Which Is Less Expensive: Greenhouses Or High Tunnels?

The choice between a high tunnel (also known as a hoop house) and a greenhouse is crucial for plant growth, protection, and overall gardening success. High tunnels are lighter, more movable, more flexible, and more versatile than traditional greenhouses. They are also cheaper to erect, with costs ranging between $2.5 and $5 per square foot.

The main difference between a caterpillar tunnel and a high tunnel lies in their permanence, structural soundness, and budget. A high tunnel offers the most growing space, is easy to setup but requires a two-person job, and is much cheaper to build. On the other hand, a greenhouse is the most expensive but also the most durable option.

Polytunnels are significantly cheaper than most greenhouses, and the smart technology in greenhouses increases their cost. High tunnels allow ventilation without the need for a dedicated system, thanks to their open-ended doors and the film used to cover them. High tunnel greenhouses are less expensive to construct and operate, with costs ranging from $2-$8 per square foot.

A greenhouse offers superior climate control, durability, and advanced ventilation options compared to a high tunnel, making it ideal for year-round gardening. High tunnels can add low-cost growing space for season extension or plant protection at a cost of $1 to $2 per square foot. However, the downsides include higher costs, lower maintenance, and the possibility of rolling up the sides for ventilation.

In conclusion, the choice between a high tunnel and a greenhouse depends on factors such as cost-effectiveness, durability, and the desired level of coverage.

Do greenhouses save money?

Growing from seed is a cost-effective alternative to buying established plants, and owning a greenhouse allows you to refresh your garden without spending hundreds of pounds. It also allows you to experiment with new varieties at a low cost, making propagating cuttings easier. Growing your own fruit and vegetables all year round is possible, as a greenhouse allows you to start crops earlier in the season and extend harvest time.

Some fruits and vegetables require glass protection to thrive, and you’ll soon discover the taste of your own greenhouse-nurtured tomatoes. You can also sell surplus produce at local farmer’s markets.

Is it worth buying a polytunnel?

Polytunnels offer a better value compared to greenhouses, providing more growth space and the same strength and ventilation as greenhouses. They are also more durable, as they can stand for many years. Polytunnels are easier to customize and repair than glass greenhouses, but they can be more difficult to replace. They require a flat base for installation, which can take longer than glass greenhouses. Polytunnels are manufactured and delivered quickly, and they can be transported or removed as needed. Glass greenhouses cannot be moved and would need to be rebuilt.

Choosing a polytunnel depends on several factors, including its size, strength, and durability. Polytunnels are more cost-effective and can be easily customized and moved around, while glass greenhouses require a custom piece and can take longer to manufacture. Both greenhouses and polytunnels provide the same growing benefits for plants.

What is the disadvantage of a polytunnel?

Polytunnel covers need to be replaced every few years due to wear and tear from weather exposure, unlike greenhouses which can last for many years without frequent maintenance. Greenhouses are better for taller plants due to their solid structure with roof or side vents, which can help manage temperature and provide similar cooling effects. Plants inside greenhouses might need more shading than those in polytunnels, as clear glass can intensify sunlight exposure. Polytunnels retain heat well but diffuse light more evenly across plants.

What is the disadvantage of polytunnel?

Polytunnels and greenhouses provide shelter and protection for plants from extreme weather and pests, but they differ in their methods. Polytunnels require regular replacement, which can increase long-term costs and effort. On the other hand, greenhouses offer a more flexible growing environment, allowing plants to grow in various conditions. They also offer a more controlled environment, allowing plants to grow in a controlled environment. However, both types of greenhouses and polytunnels have their pros and cons, making it crucial to consider both factors when choosing the right growing space for your garden.

Can you use a high tunnel as a greenhouse?

High tunnel greenhouses offer several benefits, including ventilation without a dedicated system, lower costs for construction and operation, in-ground growing, protection from hail, wind, frost, excessive precipitation, and pest pressure, and a more consistent growing environment for plants. They can accommodate in-ground growing, protect seedlings before they are moved into outdoor rows, and provide protection from hail, wind, frost, excessive precipitation, and pest pressure.

In contrast, greenhouses provide a more consistent growing environment for plants, often equipped with climate control and greater insulation values. They can be used year-round if equipped with heating and cooling equipment, offer more protection from the elements due to their complete enclosure and polycarbonate panels or glass, have a solid foundation for growing systems and benches, allow for more plant options, and provide efficient pest management due to the secure enclosure of the space. Overall, high tunnel greenhouses offer a variety of benefits for both indoor and outdoor gardening.

Are polytunnels cheaper than greenhouses?

Cost is a crucial factor when considering the addition of a growing structure to your outdoor space. Greenhouses come in various styles, and their prices reflect this. Polytunnels offer function over finesse, providing more growing space for your money. On average, an 8′ x 12′ polytunnel is two and a half times cheaper than a greenhouse of the same size.

In the UK, the elements like wind, rain, and storms can affect the longevity of your outdoor growing structure. While greenhouses need to be prepared to endure high winds to keep the glass intact, polytunnels are not to be sniffed at for their durability. Innovative materials and manufacturing have made them stand out, such as Northern Polytunnels manufacturing steel hoops in two pieces and using aluminum for base rails, doors, and door frames. This not only increases the lifespan of a polytunnel but also ensures the quality of the product.

What is better, a polytunnel or a greenhouse?

Polytunnels are a practical and budget-friendly alternative to greenhouses, offering excellent value for money. They are often used in community gardens and allotments due to their affordability, practicality, and easy mobility. However, more domestic gardeners are now considering purchasing polytunnels for their homes. Haygrove Garden Tunnels use high-quality materials, including heavy-duty polytunnels with a 2m side height, manual roll-up, roll-down ventilation systems, and an insect net to keep pests out.

The steel used is structural grade E320, and galvanization is to the British Standard of 275g/m2. Polytunnels are built directly onto a soil base, requiring only simple site clearance. They are easier to dismantle, move, and reassemble, making them a popular choice for both community gardens and residential gardens.

What is the difference between a greenhouse and a high tunnel?

A greenhouse and tunnel are two types of growing systems used for plants. Greenhouses grow plants in pots on a table, while tunnels grow plants in the ground. Greenhouses use heaters and powered ventilation systems, while tunnels do not. Haygrove Tunnels, a UK-based company, built tunnels to counter cool rainy growing conditions. The company’s success led to the creation of tunnels worldwide. The purpose of tunnels is to reduce crop loss from heavy rain and start plants growing earlier in spring, allowing for an earlier harvest.

What are the disadvantages of high tunnel greenhouses?

High tunnel farming systems can be beneficial for both professional farmers and backyard gardeners, but they have drawbacks such as strong winds, potential damage from pets or birds, and the need for frequent cover replacements. Condensation build-up can also harm plants if not installed properly. Choosing the right system can significantly impact crop yield and ecosystem health. Understanding the benefits and downsides of high tunnel and greenhouse farming systems is crucial for making an informed decision.

How much does it cost to build a high tunnel?

The price of high tunnel kits varies considerably, with costs ranging from $2. 25 to $5. 00 per square foot. This variability is attributed to factors such as tunnel dimensions, features, bow steel thickness, and plastic film type. These kits are available from a multitude of suppliers.

What are the 5 disadvantages of greenhouse?

Greenhouse farming presents a number of challenges, including the necessity for expertise, significant upfront costs, the requirement for extensive knowledge to ensure successful crop growth, high operational costs, considerable maintenance, space consumption, and a lengthy project duration.