Greenhouse film advice needed

catalekid · #1 03/29/12, 02:25 PM

I just purchased and hauled home a used greenhouse, it is a 17' X 24' Bench Mart model by Poly-Tex.

I will need to purchase the plastic film for the top cover and there are a couple of options. One is white with a 55% light transmission and the other is clear.

Which should I buy?

I plan to use the greenhouse to extend my growing season and, if possible without too much cost, to grow fresh vegetables year round.

All of my plants are in containers and can be moved inside when it is put up.

The greenhouse has sliding polycarbonate sides for ventilation so I was thinking of growing inside even in summer.

Thanks for any help and advice you can give.

jcatblum · #2 03/29/12, 11:28 PM

What zone are you gardening in? That makes a big difference in film choices. I would check with your extension office or NRCS they will know what works & doesn't for your area.

steff bugielski · #3 03/30/12, 05:34 AM

My advise is go with the good stuff. It might be expensive but it will last for years.
I was given a large roll from a friend who built greenhouses for a living. The roll he gave me was off a green house they were demolishing. I have had it now for a few years. Still perfect.

Callieslamb · #4 03/30/12, 07:50 AM

I know you didn't ask...but...from my experience, you might have little trouble in the middle of summer with it being too hot inside in OK. Mine got too hot last week when it was only 80 out even with both doors open. Look at shade cloth if you want to grow year-round. Buy the good plastic. Farmtek.com is a good place to compare plastic types and prices.

Marcia in MT · #5 03/30/12, 02:50 PM

Since you want to grow year 'round, go with the clear stull -- you'll need all the light you can get in the winter.

In thw summer, you'll probably need to shade the interior (in addition to LOTS of ventilation!). You can whitewash the outside (that's stuff that can be washed off), or put some sort of shade cloth over the whole top and down the sides.

We go with shade cloth, as it's much easier to deal with in the fall than washing the greenhouses off. But since yours is an easier size to manage, whitewash is a less expensive option.

jcatblum · #6 03/30/12, 05:09 PM

Sorry when I responded I was using my phone, didn't realize you were in Oklahoma like I am. The only way you will grow in your greenhouse in the summer is if you roll the sides all the way up & cover with shade cloth or if you use an air conditioner.

You need to take a trip to OKC & check out American plant products. They are a wholesaler & will sale greenhouse stuff to the public. You can see some of their inventory online, but not the prices. They are amazing & will make sure you get everything you need at a pretty good price. Use your farm tax & will be tax free.

If you call the noble foundation Steve Upson will help you in any greenhouse- hoop house type things. He is considered the expert in season extension techniques for Oklahoma.