Living in a cooler climate can be challenging for gardeners who strive to maximize their growing season. Fortunately, an undercover growing space like a sturdy hinged hoop house can be a game changer. I’m excited to share how I built a hinged hoop house that is not only robust but also functional, extending the growing season and protecting my crops from the harsh weather.
Benefits of an Undercover Growing Space
One of the primary benefits of having an undercover growing space is the ability to extend your growing season. With a hoop house, you can start your season earlier and end it later than usual, thanks to the added warmth and protection from frost. This setup also allows for the overwintering of crops, providing a cozy environment for them to thrive despite the snow and frost outside. Additionally, the increased ambient temperature within the hoop house means you can grow various plants, including those that typically require warmer climates.
Types of Undercover Growing Spaces
While polytunnels and greenhouses are popular options, they often require a significant amount of space and investment. A more economical and space-efficient alternative is a hoop house. It offers a similar level of protection and environmental control without extensive resource commitment, making it ideal for those with limited space or budget.
Materials Needed for a Sturdy Hinged Hoop House
To create a robust hoop house, you’ll need specific types of materials:
Wood Types:
- 5 lengths of 3m (10ft) 2×3 timber for the main structure
- 2 roofing battens of 3.1m (just over 10ft) for extra support
- 3 thin battens of 3m (10ft) for securing the plastic covering
Pipes and Hoops:
- 8 pieces of approximately 2.5m (8ft) of 25mm (1in) alkathene pipes
Covering:
- 5×2.5m UV protective plastic sheeting
Hardware:
- 2 stainless steel hinges
- 80mm screws for structural connections
- 40mm screws and 30mm nails for fastening wood and plastic
- Staples to secure the plastic
Step-by-Step Instructions for Building the Hoop House
Constructing the Base
Firstly, start by cutting your wood to size based on the dimensions of your garden bed. For a 3×1.2m (10x4ft) bed, arrange your 2×3 timbers on both ends, ensuring slight lip overhangs for easier handling. Secure these with 80mm screws at each corner, adding stability and preventing rotational movement.
Installing the Hoops
Measure and cut your alkathene pipes to span the width of the bed. Space them evenly along the length of the base and use 40mm screws to attach them to the wooden frame. Ensure the screws are tight and the hoops are securely fastened to resist strong winds.
Adding Cross Supports
Use the roofing battens to create cross supports. These are crucial for maintaining the hoop house’s shape and providing additional structural integrity. Measure, cut, and then secure them to the hoops using 40mm screws.
Securing the Plastic Covering
Lay the UV protective plastic sheeting over the structure, making sure to cover all sides thoroughly. Start by tacking the plastic onto one side, then stretch it over to the other side to create tension. Use the thin wooden battens rolled into the plastic edges and secure them with staples. Be meticulous with pleating and fastening the ends to ensure the plastic remains tight and neat.
Attaching Hinges
Finally, attach the hinges to one side of the hoop house, linking it to the garden bed. These will allow you to lift the structure effortlessly for easy access to the plants inside.
Benefits of a Hinged Hoop House
The hinged design of your hoop house not only simplifies access to your crops but also makes the structure easy to manage and move if necessary. It’s a perfect solution for urban gardeners or those with smaller spaces, offering the benefits of a polytunnel without the same spatial requirements.
My Experience and the Added Value of a Good Resource
Building this hoop house was a transformative experience for my garden, significantly extending my growing capabilities. Also, using resources like “The Self-Sufficiency Garden” book, which includes detailed dimensions and plans for structures like these, can greatly enhance your success. This book is now available for pre-order, and I highly recommend grabbing a copy. Building a hoop house may be a weekend project, but the rewards extend throughout the seasons. Happy gardening, and here’s to a bountiful, extended growing season!
