Allotment Polytunnels in the UK

Allotment polytunnels are a type of gardening structure that is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. These structures provide a more controlled environment for plants, which can lead to increased yields. However, allotment polytunnels also have some disadvantages that gardeners should be aware of before making a purchase. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of allotment polytunnels. So that you can make an informed decision about whether or not one is right for you. When we started our allotment in the summer of 2020, we realised a polytunnel was a must. So building our polytunnel was one of the first structures we built.

What is a Polytunnel?

A polytunnel is a structure typically made from metal hoops and covered with plastic sheeting that is used to create a microclimate for plants. By trapping heat and moisture inside, polytunnels can create an environment that is ideal for plant growth, even in the middle of winter. Many gardeners use polytunnels to grow plants that would not usually survive the winter outside, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers.

The Pros of Allotment Polytunnels

Increased Yields

One of the biggest advantages of allotment polytunnels in the UK is that they can lead to increased yields. This is because the controlled environment provided by the polytunnel can help to protect plants from extreme weather conditions and pests. Additionally, the use of artificial lighting and watering systems can help to ensure that plants receive the best amount of care. This leads to healthier plants and larger yields. Whether you are growing vegetables or flowers, an allotment polytunnel can help you to get more out of your plants.

Extended Growing Season

Another advantage of allotment polytunnels is that they can extend the growing season. This is because plants are protected from cold weather conditions, which means they can continue to grow and produce fruits and vegetables even when it would normally be too cold to do so. For gardeners who want to get the most out of their allotments, an extended growing season can be a major advantage.

Reduced Maintenance

Allotment polytunnels can also reduce the amount of time and effort needed to maintain a healthy garden. This is because many of the environmental factors that require regular attention (e.g., watering, weeding, etc.) are controlled by the structure itself. As such, gardeners who use allotment polytunnels can enjoy a reduced maintenance burden. Freeing up more time to enjoy their gardens.

The Cons of Allotment Polytunnels

Initial Cost

Perhaps the biggest disadvantage of allotment polytunnels is the initial cost associated with purchasing and setting up the structure. Allotment polytunnels are not cheap, and they often require professional installation in order to be effective. Consequently, gardeners on a tight budget may consider other options before investing in an allotment polytunnel.

Limited Space

Another potential downside of allotment polytunnels is that they can limit the amount of space available for gardening. This is because allotment poly tunnels take up a fair amount of space. Both in terms of the physical structure itself as well as the surrounding area required for installation and maintenance. As such, gardeners who have limited space available may want to consider other options before investing in an allotment polytunnel.

Pests

Finally, it is important to note that allotment polytunnels are not completely effective at keeping pests out. While they will protect your plants from many types of pests (e.g., birds, rodents). There are some (e.g., insects) that will still be able to find their way into your garden. As such, gardeners who live in areas with high pest populations may want to take this into consideration before investing in an allotment polytunnel.

Allotment Polytunnels in the UK Conclusion:

As you can see, there are both advantages and disadvantages associated with using allotment poly tunnels in your UK garden. Ultimately, whether or not an allotment polytunnel is right for you will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. If you have the budget for it and you need the extra space, then an allotment polytunnel could be a great investment. However, if you’re short on space or if you live in an area with high pest populations, then other options might be better suited for you. Whatever you decide, we hope this blog post has helped you to make an informed decision about whether or not an allotment polytunnel is right for you. Thanks for reading!