By definition, a hoop house is a polytunnel is a tunnel typically made from steel and covered in polythene, usually semi-circular, square or elongated in shape. The interior heats up because incoming solar radiation from the sun warms plants, soil, and other things inside the building faster than heat can escape the structure (Wikipedia).
You can think of a hoop house as a more affordable version of a greenhouse. For those of us in New England, it can be challenging to extend the lifetime of your garden thanks to our harsh winters. Did you know that for most New England gardens that you shouldn't plant anything until after Memorial Day because the ground isn't warm enough? That's crazy to think about.
Follow this easy DIY step-by-step tutorial for building your very own hoop house to protect your backyard garden from the elements.
With a hoop house, you can start the garden process during the winter months thanks to the sun warming up the environment within the house and the house protecting the young seedlings from the harsh environment outside of its walls.
To Summarize Why You Should Consider A Hoop House:
A hoop house is one of the easiest ways to get your garden started when you are waiting for spring to be in full gear and to extend the life of your garden through the fall so your veggies have ample time to grow. It's one of the easiest projects you can do for your New England backyard garden.
Learn more about hoop houses in our resource section.
FREE GARDEN DESIGN WORKSHEET
This free worksheet will walk you through the process of planning your garden. From location to garden tools to what you will plant. Download your free copy below.