Preparedness
Choose Wisely: Hoop House or Greenhouse for Your Garden?
When considering how to extend your growing season or start transplants, you’ll inevitably face a choice: should you invest in a controlled environment greenhouse or opt for a more passive system like a hoop house?
Traditionally, the distinction between these two structures was clear. Greenhouses were permanent installations, often featuring concrete footings and floors, and connected to utilities for light, heat, cooling, and water. They are designed to provide year-round, climate-controlled growing environments, capable of mimicking any growing zone, even in the far north.
On the other hand, hoop houses, also known as high tunnels, were simpler, offering a protective cover over plants grown directly in the ground.
Greenhouses are known for their sturdy construction, typically using framing that can withstand storms. High-end models often feature glass or polycarbonate panels. In contrast, hoop houses are generally covered in plastic. However, advancements in agricultural plastics have blurred these lines, with some greenhouses now using plastic covers similar to those of hoop houses.
The evolution of hoop houses has also seen the incorporation of cattle panels, which enhance their sturdiness and ability to withstand weather challenges. Some even include concrete footers for added stability. Additionally, the use of raised beds and containers is no longer exclusive to greenhouses. Many hoop houses now feature raised beds, though they may lack the heating and cooling systems of greenhouses.
Ultimately, the decision between a hoop house and a greenhouse comes down to two primary factors: budget and climate control needs.
“The construction of a greenhouse is quite a bit more expensive than a hoop house. And climate control systems are not cheap to run.”
If your goal is simply to extend the growing season, a hoop house might be all you need, even if your budget allows for a greenhouse.
Hoop houses offer flexibility in terms of ventilation, often by rolling up the plastic sides or opening a window or door. Some designs even incorporate a “hoop within a hoop” to elevate your growing zone by several levels.
For many homesteaders, a hoop house provides all the necessary benefits. They are versatile structures, often repurposed for various applications, including hay barns, equipment sheds, and even shelters for livestock and poultry.
In essence, while both structures have their merits, the choice largely depends on your specific needs and financial considerations.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.