Not every shelter for growing plants is a greenhouse. Protective gardening structures offer versatile solutions to extend the growing season, shield crops from pests and harsh weather, and improve yields without relying on traditional greenhouses. This guide outlines practical, non-greenhouse options that any gardener can implement.
1. Low Tunnels and Row Covers
Low tunnels and row covers are simple, cost-effective solutions for protecting plants.
Materials: Use lightweight fabrics like frost blankets or plastic sheeting stretched over hoops made of PVC or metal.
Benefits:
– Extend the growing season by protecting plants from frost in early spring or late fall.
– Shield crops from pests like aphids and caterpillars.
– Allow air, light, and water to penetrate while maintaining a stable microclimate.
Setup:
1. Install hoops over your garden bed.
2. Secure the covering material tightly with clips or weights to prevent wind damage.
3. Open the ends during warm days to prevent overheating.
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2. High Tunnels (Hoop Houses)
High tunnels are larger, walk-in versions of low tunnels that provide more robust protection.
Features:
– Made from metal or PVC frames covered with polyethylene plastic.
– Can be stationary or mobile (e.g., Rolling Thunder models that move on rails).
Advantages:
– Extend the growing season to nearly year-round in some climates.
– Protect crops from frost, hail, wind, and heavy rain.
– Allow for crop rotation by moving the structure between planting areas.
Tips:
– Ensure proper ventilation to avoid overheating.
– Reinforce the frame for stability in high winds.
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3. Shade Structures
Shade structures protect plants from excessive sunlight and heat stress.
Materials: Use shade cloths with varying densities (30%-70%) depending on plant needs.
Benefits:
– Reduce heat stress during hot summers.
– Lower soil evaporation rates, conserving water.
Setup:
1. Build a simple frame using wood or metal poles.
2. Attach shade cloth securely using zip ties or clips.
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4. Screen Houses
Screen houses provide protection against pests while allowing airflow.
Materials: Use fine mesh netting to cover a wooden or metal frame.
Advantages:
– Prevent entry of pests like mites, thrips, and aphids.
– Reduce wind damage while maintaining ventilation.
Considerations:
– Select mesh size based on pest type; finer meshes block smaller insects but may reduce airflow.
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5. Cold Frames
Cold frames are small structures designed to trap heat and protect plants from cold weather.
Materials: Use wood or metal frames with transparent lids made of glass or plastic.
Benefits:
– Ideal for starting seeds early in spring or overwintering hardy crops like kale and spinach.
– Retain warmth during cold nights while allowing sunlight during the day.
Setup Tips:
– Position the cold frame facing south for maximum sunlight exposure.
– Ventilate on sunny days to prevent overheating.
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6. Mulches and Ground Covers
Mulches and ground covers offer soil-level protection.
Types:
– Organic mulches (straw, wood chips) retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
– Plastic mulch warms soil for heat-loving crops like tomatoes and peppers.
Benefits:
– Suppress weeds and reduce evaporation in dry climates.
– Protect soil from erosion during heavy rains.
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7. Modular Cover Systems for Raised Beds
Raised garden beds can be equipped with modular cover systems for added protection.
Features:
– Combine hoops with insect netting, frost covers, or shade cloths.
– Often include drip irrigation systems for efficient watering.
Advantages:
– Easy to install and adjust based on seasonal needs.
– Provide targeted protection for smaller gardens.
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8. Protective Structures Against Weather Extremes
For harsher climates, more robust structures like windbreaks or hail nets can protect crops:
Hail Nets: Use durable mesh to shield plants from hail damage while allowing sunlight through.
Windbreaks: Install barriers made of wood slats or dense hedges to reduce wind impact on delicate plants.
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9. Considerations for All Protective Structures
1. Reinforce Stability: Use stakes, weights, or guy lines to secure structures against strong winds.
2. Ventilation: Avoid overheating by ensuring proper airflow in enclosed structures like tunnels and cold frames.
3. Material Durability: Choose UV-resistant plastics or fabrics to extend the lifespan of your coverings.
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10. Benefits of Non-Greenhouse Protective Structures
1. Extended Growing Season: Protect plants from frost and cold temperatures, allowing year-round gardening in many regions.
2. Pest Control: Act as physical barriers against insects and wildlife, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.
3. Weather Protection: Shield crops from extreme weather events like hailstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds.
4. Increased Yields: Create optimal growing conditions that lead to healthier plants and higher productivity.
By implementing these non-greenhouse protective gardening structures, gardeners can enjoy extended growing seasons, healthier crops, and greater resilience against pests and weather challenges—all without the complexity or cost of a traditional greenhouse system!
Read More
[1] https://www.chelseagreen.com/2023/extend-your-growing-season-with-crop-protection-structures/
[2] https://indorenursery.com/2023/12/20/building-protective-structures-for-your-plants/
[3] https://www.vegogarden.com/blogs/academy/10-best-cover-systems-for-raised-garden-beds
[4] https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/HS1224
[5] https://www.farmcreditofvirginias.com/blog/common-greenhouse-structures
[6] https://quizlet.com/gb/704384797/r2114-protective-structures-and-their-uses-in-protective-environments-flash-cards/
[7] https://www.gardenary.com/blog/the-complete-guide-to-garden-covers
[8] https://savvygardening.com/garden-bed-covers/