Temporary Greenhouse Construction Using Tarpaulins

Growing your plants and vegetables is a very rewarding experience. However, many areas do not have the ideal climate conditions for plants all year round. A greenhouse allows you to extend the growing season and protect delicate seedlings. However, portable greenhouse kits can be quite costly.

Benefits of Building a Temporary Greenhouse

There are several benefits to constructing a temporary greenhouse structure using tarpaulins:

Affordability

Lightweight Tarpaulins, ropes, poles, and stakes are very inexpensive materials compared to the cost of purchasing a kit greenhouse. You can build one for under $50.

Flexibility

A White Tarpaulin greenhouse is portable and flexible in its design. It can be adapted for year-round use or seasonal storage after the growing season ends. The materials are also reusable year after year.

Easy Assembly

Tarpaulin greenhouses are very simple to put together compared to framed kits. They take just a couple of hours to assemble and secure in your garden. takedown and storage are also fast and hassle-free.

Environment Control

Even a simple tarp-covered structure protects from wind, rain, and temperature fluctuations. It allows you to better regulate conditions like sunlight, warmth, and humidity for optimal plant growth.

Choosing a Site for Your Temporary Greenhouse

The location you choose will help determine how effective your temporary greenhouse is, so take time to select the ideal spot. Here are some important factors to consider:

Sunlight Exposure

Greenhouses are designed to optimize photosynthesis, so look for an area that receives full sun for at least 6 hours per day. Southern or southwestern exposures are best.

Level Ground

The land should be clear of debris, reasonably level, and well-draining. A slight slope is acceptable but excessive hills can cause coverage issues.

Proximity to Water

Select a place near an outdoor spigot or water source so you can easily monitor and care for plants inside. Being too far complicates watering.

Distance from Structures

Allow at least 3 feet of clearance from buildings, fences, or overhanging obstructions that could block sunlight or trap moisture.

Accessibility

The site should be conveniently located for regular visits. Too far from your home can discourage routine greenhouse care and maintenance.

Size Estimation

Measure your available space and calculate the length x width needed based on the number and size of plants. For example, a 10' x 8' area would allow room for 40 to 50 mature plants.

Materials Needed for Temporary Greenhouse

Here are the basic materials you will need to construct a temporary greenhouse using tarpaulins:

Rope, Zip Ties, or Twine

Use these items to lace poles together where they cross to form your frame, as well as attach the tarpaulin coverings securely. Nylon or plastic zip ties are best for durability.

Stakes

Metal or wood stakes (8-12 inches or 20-30 cm long) secure the Large Tarpaulin edges and corners to the ground. Approximately 10-15 stakes are usually sufficient.

Wood Poles

Untreated wooden dowels or thin poles cut to size. Make sure wood is weather resistant.

PVC Pipes

Schedule 40 PVC pipes are a heavier-duty alternative to wood poles. They are low-cost and long-lasting.

Plastic Tarpaulins

The tarpaulins will serve as the walls and roof of your greenhouse structure. It is recommended to use heavyweight-duty tarps made from vinyl or polyethylene plastics. These materials will withstand weather better than lighter tarps.