Using High Tunnels for Early-Season Planting
Are you a grower eager to get a jumpstart on the season?
Wondering how to protect your perennials and shrubs from unpredictable spring weather?
Our team has seen firsthand how high tunnels can transform early-season planting for farmers across Michigan and beyond. Our structures not only shield your crops from the elements but also create an optimal environment for growth, allowing you to extend your growing season and enhance plant health.
In this article, we’ll explore how using a high tunnel can improve early-season planting. You’ll learn about the specific benefits of hoop houses—and how they can support long-term success for farmers across the Midwest and beyond.
The Power of High Tunnels for Perennials and Shrubs
High tunnels, also known as hoop houses, are unheated greenhouse-like structures that provide a controlled environment for plants. By capturing solar energy, they warm the soil and air, enabling earlier planting and extended harvests. This is particularly beneficial for perennials and shrubs, which can establish more robust root systems and experience accelerated growth in these conditions.
According to the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, high tunnels protect plants from severe weather and allow farmers to extend their growing seasons—growing earlier into the spring, later into the fall, and in some states, year-round.
Benefits of High Tunnels for Early-Season Planting
High tunnels allow for earlier planting in the spring and later harvesting in the fall. This extended season means more opportunities for growth and profit. Perennials like strawberries and raspberries have been shown to produce earlier and later in the season when grown in high tunnels.
2. Protection from Weather Extremes
Spring in Michigan and other Mid-Western states can be unpredictable, with late frosts and heavy rains. High tunnels offer a shield against these elements, ensuring your perennials and shrubs are protected during critical growth periods.
3. Improved Plant Health
By controlling the environment, high tunnels reduce disease pressure and pest infestations. This means healthier plants and higher-quality yields. Studies have shown that plants grown inside high tunnels experience less disease and produce higher-grade cut flowers! You can check out some flowers grown in a Nifty Hoops high tunnel over at Delight Flower Farm!
4. Enhanced Root Development
The warmer soil temperatures in high tunnels promote faster root development. This is essential for perennials and shrubs, as a strong root system sets the foundation for vigorous growth and resilience.
Ready to Elevate Your Growing Season with a High Tunnel?
Give your perennials and shrubs the early-season boost they’ve been waiting for. From stronger roots to longer harvests, the benefits of growing under a high tunnel speak for themselves.
Grow with us at Nifty Hoops—your crops (and future self) will thank you.
“We are extremely impressed with Nifty Hoops and their entire team! The employees were extremely helpful throughout the quote and order process, and the three-person construction crew was incredible! They arrived on Monday and by the end of day on Tuesday, two impressive 30'x72' high tunnels were constructed!
We chose the Community Build option and had excellent volunteers who worked alongside our crew from Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve. As a public charity, we really appreciate working with Nifty Hoops and their employees who clearly really love their jobs and are helping others. THANK YOU SO MUCH! WE ARE THRILLED!”
Google Review, Tavia Cathcart