Protect your crops as early winter sets a November record!

The UK has already experienced some of the heaviest widespread early snow for 17 years. The deep freeze has seen a record low where sub-zero temperatures have reached double-figures and it has been reported that the snow is going to stay right through Christmas and New Year! (Oh Joy!)

Mini Poytunnel and cloche hoops inside a Polytunnel like "double glazing"

Whilst growth in the Polytunnel is now slow to non existent, the Polytunnel gardener should still protect all tender crops from extreme temperatures.  Adding cloche hoops covered in fleece, or a mini polytunnel covered in polythene over raised beds inside your already exsisting  Polytunnel like “double glazing” can help protect frost sensitive plants. You might also want to consider the use of a thermostat controlled propane gas heater to take the edge off the cold inside the Polytunnel.

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Photograph by Alasdair Martin www.grownstuff.co.uk

Although a light layer of snow can provide some insulation, snow is heavy stuff! Remember to gently remove any lying snow from the roof and sides of your Polytunnel with a soft brush. A good bang on the inside of your polytunnel with the back of your hand also works a treat – don’t let it accumulate!

Crop bars are the perfect addition to any Polytunnel. These horizontal galvanized steel supports are fixed across the width of your tunnel at head height. They serve a multitude of purposes from supporting hanging baskets, canes and wires to strengthening the Polytunnel structure against wind on blustery sites and helping with snow load.

Roll on Springtime

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