COMMUNITY GARDEN GUIDE SEASON EXTENSION FIELD TUNNELS

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COMMUNITY GARDEN GUIDE. SEASON EXTENSION. FIELD TUNNELS. Extending the growing season in many Great Lakes States’ gardens is essential if quality …

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COMMUNITY GARDEN GUIDE
SEASON EXTENSION
FIELD TUNNELS
Extending the growing season in many Great Lakes States’ gardens is essential if quality
vegetables and seed are to be successfully grown. A number of season extension techniques are
available to the gardener. Costs for season extension range from tens of dollars to tens of
thousands of dollars, depending on the type of season extension employed.
Field Tunnels are small, temporary structures assembled in the field that create a micro-climate
favorable for plant growth when properly used and managed. The environment created by Field
Tunnels provides frost protection, insect protection, and season extension benefits to the plant.
There are several types of Field Tunnels available that can be used. The Field Tunnel structure
consists of hoops of heavy gauge metal wire, woven wire, or plastic tubing anchored in the
ground and covered with season extension material. The cost of these structures averages
approximately $.48 per linear foot of installation.
COVERING MATERIAL
Recommended covering materials include hole-perforated, clear or white plastic, slitted clear or
white plastic, spunbonded polyester, or polypropylene. The type of covering has a direct bearing
on the internal heat of the structure. Following is a general guide…