hoop house sides & double poly
 

Question 1:

I'd like to hear how often people roll up/down sides of their hoop houses. In the summer here on the plains its often 90+ during the day, and mid-60's to 70 at night.

I know the sides would have to be up during the day, but can I just leave them up all summer, or do they have to go back down at night? I'm also anticipating shade cloth.

Question 2:

Anyone tried these spacer blocks between 2 layers of poly film?
[url]http://www.johnnyseeds.com/p-9771-spacer-blocks-box-of-12.aspx[/url]

It seems like a simple alternative to forced air (blower) between the 2 layers. It would be great for me because I will not have pwr out at the hoop house.

thanks.

P-88,

Don't know if you are a backyard gardener or if you are using a low tunnel. If you are using a hoophouse to get an early start on the season frost would be your main concern. Once you get the nights at 60 to 70 degrees you could dispense with the cover entirely unless you feel you need some sunshade effect. Each summer I roll up the side walls and leave them up here near Seattle. If we had consistent 90 degree days I would take the cover clear off.
FYI: I have reinforced the support ribs with added uprights then I can use the hoophouse frame to tie up plants that outgrow my cages. That might also work for you.
Have not used the spacer to asked about but at $57 per box of 12 I won't be trying them. If you needed a double layer and wanted an inexpensive divider I would think those foam pool toys ( I think they may be called noodles?) that are round and like 4 feet long and 3 to 4 inches in diameter would be usable. Or perhaps some type of bubble wrap in key points.

Len

I leave the sides up all Summer long. And yes, the spacers do work, the amish around here use them all the time. the other option is a 12 volt inflator fan on a solar panel with a battery I think Yoders produce Supply is the place to get them. no phone so write and ask for a catalog. you won't be disappointed in their prices... but the shipping might get you, I don't know. I always pick up there.
9599 S. Applecreek Rd, Fredricksburg Ohio 44627