From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Corryton, TN

I was thinking about a post by Brooks some time ago in wich he referred to www.bigpumpkins.com/Diary/DiaryViewOne.asp?eid=79244. It made me wonder what would be the result of this setup on a small scale. I put a clear tub approx. 16"x24" over a digital thermometer inside a simple 6'x8' hoop house with another digital thermometer inside of it. Today was drizzly and cloudy all day with a high of 51. Hoop house high 72. Under tub high 83. What problems might I encounter if I do this over a plant? Would enough light penetrate th promote growth?

4/14/2008 8:15:03 PM

Nikiski, Alaska 99635

That post was in reference to the hoophouse inside a greenhouse in Alaska. Even without electricity you are going to be fine. Although the temperature was only 51 and cloudy, it is amazing how much solar radiation still gets through and is retained in a greenhouse. I would take interior cover off at 10am to allow for more sun and replace as soon as the temperature drops for the evening and if there is enough room I would put gallon or two of hot water inside of cover but as far away from the plant as possible. Empty 1 1/2 gallon detergent containers work very well. Slightly larger tub would be beneficial as well.

4/14/2008 11:42:17 PM

Nikiski, Alaska 99635

I have noticed with to much time under low light conditions with moderate to excessive warmth the plants tend to have a lighter leaf color and aren't quite as sturdy. At this early stage of the season there is not much to be gained by adding a few extra inches of plant growth at the expense of the plants integrity. It is probably more beneficial to have a solid well balanced plant. Once the season progresses and the temperatures warm the plant will be well structured and take off.

4/15/2008 12:59:56 AM

Corryton, TN

Thanks JD
I was really surprised how much additional heat was retained by the inner structure.

4/15/2008 4:25:20 AM

Somers, CT

I have not had to use outside heat in my hoophouse yet. It is amazing how much heat is generated.

4/15/2008 8:16:17 AM