1. Temperature Regulation:
The PE cover of a steel frame poly tunnel steeple greenhouse plays a crucial role in temperature regulation. Polyethylene is a good insulator, which means it can help to maintain a stable temperature inside the greenhouse, even when the external conditions are fluctuating. This is particularly beneficial for plants that require a consistent temperature to thrive. For example, tomatoes and peppers need a warm environment to grow well, and a PE greenhouse can provide that. The cover also helps to prevent sudden temperature drops that can damage plants, such as frost damage in the early morning or late evening.
The greenhouse structure itself, with its steel frame, can also contribute to temperature regulation. Steel is a good conductor of heat, which means it can absorb and distribute heat more evenly throughout the greenhouse. This can help to prevent hot spots and ensure that all plants receive the warmth they need.
The temperature regulation also extends to the summer months. While the greenhouse will still be warmer than the outside, the PE cover can be vented to allow for air circulation, which can help to prevent overheating. This is important for plants that can be damaged by excessive heat.
2. Protection from Weather Elements:
A steel frame poly tunnel steeple greenhouse with a PE cover provides excellent protection from the elements. The steel frame is robust and can withstand strong winds, heavy rain, and snow, ensuring that the greenhouse remains standing and functional even in harsh weather conditions. The PE cover is also durable and can resist tearing and puncturing, which means it can protect the plants inside from damage caused by hail, wind, or heavy rain.
The protection from the elements is not just about physical damage. It also includes protection from pests and diseases that can be carried by wind or rain. By keeping these out, the greenhouse can help to maintain a healthier growing environment for the plants.
The PE cover also provides protection from UV radiation. While some sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis, too much UV can be harmful to plants, causing them to become stressed and potentially leading to reduced growth or even death. The PE cover can filter out some of this harmful UV, protecting the plants and allowing them to grow more healthily.
3. Light Transmission:
Polyethylene covers are designed to allow a high level of light transmission. This means that a large amount of the sunlight that hits the cover can pass through and reach the plants inside the greenhouse. This is crucial for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy to fuel their growth. The more light that reaches the plants, the more efficiently they can photosynthesize, leading to faster growth and potentially higher yields.
The light transmission properties of the PE cover can also help to extend the growing season. Even on cloudy days, when there might not be as much direct sunlight, the cover can still allow a significant amount of light to reach the plants, ensuring that they continue to grow. This can be particularly beneficial for plants that require a lot of light, such as leafy greens or tomatoes.
4. Humidity Control:
The PE cover of a greenhouse can also help to control humidity levels. When the temperature inside the greenhouse is higher than outside, the air inside the greenhouse can hold more moisture. This can lead to higher humidity levels, which can be beneficial for many plants. High humidity can help to prevent the drying out of plant tissues, which can lead to wilting or other stress-related problems.
However, too much humidity can also be a problem, as it can lead to the growth of mold and other diseases. The PE cover can be vented to allow excess moisture to escape, helping to maintain a healthy balance of humidity. This is particularly important in areas where the natural humidity levels are already high, or during periods of heavy rainfall.
5. Air Circulation:
Good air circulation is important for plant health, as it helps to prevent the buildup of stagnant air, which can lead to the growth of mold and other diseases. The steel frame poly tunnel steeple greenhouse design allows for good air circulation, as the shape of the tunnel and the vents in the PE cover can help to promote the movement of air.
The air circulation can also help to distribute heat more evenly throughout the greenhouse, ensuring that all plants receive the warmth they need. This is particularly important in larger greenhouses, where there might be a risk of temperature gradients developing, with some areas being warmer than others.
6. Ease of Maintenance:
The steel frame and PE cover of a poly tunnel steeple greenhouse are both relatively low maintenance. The steel frame is robust and does not require painting or other treatments to protect it from the elements. The PE cover is also durable and can be easily cleaned to remove dirt and debris. This means that the greenhouse can be kept in good condition with minimal effort, allowing the gardener to focus on the plants rather than the structure.