Before I had a greenhouse

For the first three years of my gardening 'career' I grew without polytunnel, although we did have a tiny greenhouse. We managed ok, we used low tunnels and cold-frames to great effect and by the third year we were self-sufficient in veg and seasonal fruit all year round. I've covered the general range of options for growing under cover in the basics section of this eBook.

However when we got a polytunnel, everything got so much better. Not only were we able to grow more food and a wider range of food, but more importantly we had a lot more fun doing it. The polytunnel is such a lovely space to spend time in! It's also a great space to retreat to in winter, to warm up, shelter from the rain, or chill out and have lunch.

Then we got a greenhouse at home, which meant we had electricity, which in turn meant we could heat and light it. A greenhouse at home is also incredibly convenient and it looks lovely too! This section of the book is a celebration of greenhouse growing!

Greenhouse vs a Polytunnel

As I mentioned I have both and both have their place. In the kitchen garden aesthetics and automatic ventilation were the main drivers for a greenhouse, but the slightly better insulation and ability to seal it up and heat it in winter were also factors. On the allotment, low price, large size and ease of construction were the deciding factors. Here’s a longer list of the pros and cons:

Polytunnel:

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Generally cheaper to build and maintain than a traditional greenhouse.
• Portability: Easier to move or modify than a permanent greenhouse structure, especially one with a solid base and dwarf wall like mine!
• Good for Large Areas: Can cover larger growing areas at a much lower cost, although good deals are often available for second hand greenhouses.
• Flexibility: Ideal for all season growing, and quick to set up.

Cons:

• Durability: much less durable than a greenhouse, especially in extreme weather (wind, snow).
• Temperature Control: Limited roof and side ventilation options, making temperature control more challenging. Virtually no insulation overnight unless used along with fleece
• Aesthetics: Less visually appealing compared to glass or polycarbonate greenhouses. However sitting inside a polytunnel is special due to the diffused light and privacy

Greenhouse:

Pros:

• Durability: More robust and long-lasting, especially glass or polycarbonate models.