Discover the perfect solution for your gardening needs with this ultimate guide to high tunnels and greenhouses. It can be overwhelming trying to figure out which structure is best for your needs. Let’s explore the similarities and differences between the two and how the NRCS EQUIP program might help fund your high tunnel or greenhouse.
What Purpose do High Tunnels and Greenhouses serve?
Despite the difference in verbiage, high tunnels and greenhouses serve a common basic purpose. They both help protect plants from pests and extreme weather conditions.
Additionally, these structures create a microclimate ideal for seed starting and crop production. Whether you’re a novice gardener or a seasoned pro, high tunnels and greenhouses offer a canvas for your botanical ambitions.
Are Greenhouses and High Tunnels actually different?
While greenhouses and high tunnels serve a similar purpose, there are definitely some differences between the two that you will need to consider when making your decision.
By learning more about each structure, and evaluating your specific needs, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your gardening goals.
Greenhouses
A greenhouse is a structure that is actively heated and cooled to maintain a specific temperature. Greenhouses can be used as an atrium for tropical or exotic plants, but usually greenhouses are used as a nursery setup for starting plants.
A key characteristic of a greenhouse is its active climate control. This involves using heaters and monitoring thermostats for correct warmth, and cooling systems such as fans to manage temperature and prevent your plants from overheating.
Greenhouses play a crucial role on larger farms, allowing for the cultivation of a significant number of plants. For instance, at a farm I managed for several years, we grew five acres intensively in organic vegetables using only a 30’ x 36’ greenhouse.
For most typical backyard gardens a full greenhouse isn’t necessary. My 1200 square foot backyard garden requires a more modest set up than the five-acre farm. I start roughly 1,000 plants using a four foot wire rack with four shelves accommodating about 8 trays. To maximize space, I use soil blocks under grow lights.
So, in the case of a normal backyard garden, a small high tunnel would prove to be more effective, as it prolongs the growing season.
High Tunnels
High tunnels (sometimes referred to as hoop houses) are typically passively heated. This means only the sun heats the air underneath the plastic, trapping thermal energy inside.
They are also passively vented through roll up sides, drop down curtains, and a fan to draw in fresh air to the tunnel.
An unheated high tunnel can extend your growing season by one to two months. This allows for earlier planting and later harvesting.
A useful rule of thumb is that each layer of plastic on a high tunnel adds about one growing zone south. For example, if you are in zone 6 a high tunnel effectively moves you to zone 7. Adding a second layer of plastic can shift you two zones south, effectively moving you from zone 6 to zone 8.
NRCS EQUIP
The NRCS EQUIP (Environmental Quality Incentives Program) is designed to provide support of financial and technical means for eligible growers.
To learn more about the program and to see if you may be eligible for assistance in your high tunnel or greenhouse aspirations, check out their website here.
Integrating NRCS EQIP practices into your gardening routine can optimize resource use, improve crop productivity, and promote environmental stewardship. By adopting conservation practices supported by NRCS EQIP, you’re cultivating a resilient and eco-friendly growing environment. Leverage these resources to boost the health and vitality of your plants while preserving the natural ecosystem.
Mindful Farmer, in collaboration with NRCS EQIP, offers a holistic approach to garden management, combining innovative structures with sustainable practices. By aligning with NRCS EQIP guidelines, you’re not just cultivating a garden; you’re nurturing a thriving ecosystem. Take advantage of these valuable resources to create a harmonious balance between nature and cultivation.
The Mindful Farmer Difference
Our high tunnels at Mindful Farmer are designed with versatility and ease of installation in mind. They are specifically engineered for home gardeners, homesteaders, and beginning farmers. These tunnels can be upgraded to greenhouse style for larger farms (5 to 10 acres) or used as backyard kits for hobbyists.
With a user-friendly design tailored for easy assembly, these tunnels combine functionality with affordability. By investing in a high-quality structure, you’re ensuring the longevity and success of your gardening endeavors.
All of our tunnels meet NRCS specifications for the EQUIP cost-share program. Many customers receive enough funds to cover their kit entirely.
While we offer assembly services in Arkansas, we also ship kits nationwide. For more information about our high tunnels, email us at info@mindfulfarmer.com or use the chat function at the bottom right corner of our website.
Harvesting Success
As you navigate the decision between high tunnels and greenhouses, remember that the essence of successful gardening lies in balance. Mindful Farmer high tunnels and greenhouses offer simplicity, affordability, and durability, making them the ideal choice for growers seeking a professionally engineered solution. By leveraging NRCS EQIP resources, you can elevate your gardening experience, ensuring a fruitful harvest for years to come.