From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Buffalo, New York

what does everyone use to keep their plants warm at night?

5/20/2008 3:12:21 AM

Somers, CT

If you need it, a light bulb works fine. Test the temp with different wattages. You do not want an easy bake oven. I bought a remote thermometer that can reach the patch. It was under $10 this xmas. I have to try it in the hoophouse. Some use a portable electric heater with a thermostat.

5/20/2008 7:53:39 AM

Nova Scotia

lot of people put heating cables in the soil under there plant befor they plant. the light bulb idea will warm a hoop house but not a good idea for night as your plant needs a night cycle to grow properly.

5/20/2008 9:43:53 AM

Simi valley, ca

I have never before needed hoops or heat,But this yr i did ,I just threw sheets over the cages i already have,& used a 100 watt bulb -Under it was warmer ,maybe 7-8 degrees ,more sheets or plastic would be warmer, I put aluminum foil over bulb for the night ,,I noticed they grew more than the back up plants that were uncovered !!!

5/20/2008 11:04:59 AM

Bristol,RI,USA.

I have tried something different this year have been putting a candle in each hoop house, the temp has not dropped below 58* and as i can tell the romantic glow and the Barry white CD i have been playing is a great turn on for both the plants and my wife !!!!!

Calcubit

5/20/2008 1:40:19 PM

Minnesota([email protected])

Calcubit,
That sounds like a great economical idea. I like these low tech tips.
Is the smoke generated from the candle a problem....maybe candles don't actually give off smoke? Maybe I should phrase it: Do the byproducts of candle burning pose a threat to the plant? Can anyone think of any downside to burning a candle in the hoophouse at night?

5/20/2008 7:54:12 PM

Fairport,NY

Is it really harmful to the plant, to leave a light on during the night for warmth?

5/20/2008 10:25:54 PM

Northern New York

Bumkin, good question. I'm a couple hours north of you and I'm looking at high 30s - low 40s at night for the next few days. I have temporary greenhouses but I need a heat source.

5/21/2008 10:20:44 AM

Bristol,RI,USA.

Doug The candles give vary little light but quiet a bit of heat. as far as smoke i have not had a problem co2 is the byproduct of the burning which may help the plant grow faster i will keep you posted.
calcubit

5/22/2008 12:01:38 PM