Film greenhouses are popular among those who don't want to invest heavily but still get a stable harvest. They're lightweight, easy to install, and suitable for small plots. Larger versions of these greenhouses are also widely used for commercial growing, where cellular polycarbonate coverings are prohibitively expensive. We'll discuss the features of film greenhouses below, and you can buy a ready-made greenhouse at link.
Easy and simple installation
Film greenhouses are quick to assemble and require little skill. The galvanized steel frame can be installed in a day, and the film can be stretched in a couple of hours. It's important to choose a sturdy frame that can withstand wind. This design is ideal for beginners, as it requires little effort or specialized tools.
Saving resources
Film is one of the most affordable greenhouse materials. It's cheaper than polycarbonate or glass, making greenhouses budget-friendly. To ensure a longer lifespan, it's important to use specialized film with UV protection. You can purchase this type of film on the website https://teplitca.kiev.ua/g21110482-plenka-dlya-teplits.
Good light transmittance
The film transmits up to 901 TP3T of light, making it ideal for plants like lettuce or peppers that thrive in bright light. Modern films with additives diffuse light, preventing leaf burn. It's important to choose a film thickness of 120-200 microns to ensure sufficient light and resistance to wind damage.
Flexibility in use
Film greenhouses are easily adapted to accommodate different crops. The film can be removed or replaced to adjust the microclimate. It should be stretched evenly to avoid creases, which can weaken the greenhouse's strength. This makes the greenhouse versatile for seasonal or year-round cultivation, if heated.
Limited thermal insulation
Film doesn't retain heat well, which is a major drawback for year-round use. In cold weather, heaters, such as infrared heaters, will need to be installed to maintain a temperature of 18-22°C. For year-round cultivation, farmers use multi-layer film with forced warm air between the layers, creating a barrier against cold air from outside.
Film lifespan
Even high-quality film lasts 2-5 years, after which it needs to be replaced. UV rays and temperature fluctuations wear down the material. It's necessary to inspect the film every season and repair minor damage with tape. For year-round cultivation, this requires additional effort compared to polycarbonate.
Ventilation and microclimate
Film greenhouses are easy to ventilate, which is important for cucumbers and other herbs that don't like stagnant air. Install vents on both sides to ensure circulation. You can use automatic vents or open them manually to maintain humidity and temperature.
Bottom Line: Is Film Worth Choosing?
Film greenhouses are an affordable and flexible option for growing vegetables. They're easy to install and allow good light transmission, but require insulation and maintenance for year-round use. It's important to weigh the pros and cons, taking into account the climate and crops. With the right approach, such a greenhouse can produce a harvest of tomatoes or herbs even in winter.
