Polytunnel Cultivation for Cuttings, Bulbs, Seedlings, and Young Plants
Commercial polytunnels are a number one choice,
popular amongst many types of growers and food producers, as well as garden centres
and new start-up businesses, known for their ability to create controlled
environments, which are ideal for cultivating a wide range of plants and crops
including bulbs, seedlings, and young plants. Polytunnel companies offer a
range of shapes and sizes in both domestic polytunnels and commercial housings,
as protective shields and help by providing an extended growing season because
of their ability to manage microclimates, making them invaluable in
horticultural and agricultural business practices.
Domestic and Commercial Polytunnels
Growing bulbous plants grown in domestic
polytunnels or commercial polytunnels opens up the possibility of cultivating
wide varieties of traditional and exotic bulbs, that might otherwise struggle
in the unpredictable UK climate. While traditional bulbs such as tulips and
daffodils can be grown inside them, the slightly warmer and humid conditions
inside polytunnels can elevate and accelerate their particular development and may
shorten the bloom period, so using the right covering is important. This awareness
makes polytunnels particularly better suited for exotic crops and plants that
thrive in stable, warmer conditions.
Exotics, such as clematis, lilies and bird of
paradise plants, provide not only stunning visual displays but also have a
longer blooming period under controlled conditions. These bulbs are available
from specialist horticultural suppliers who often utilise domestic polytunnels
or commercial polytunnels themselves, ensuring that the plants are already
acclimatised to similar conditions as those in which they will continue to grow
when fed, protected, and given the necessary warmth.
Choosing and Sourcing Exotic Bulbs
When choosing bulbs, gardeners should
consider both aesthetics and ease of cultivation. Lilies are a good starting point
for those new to exotic bulbs due to their robust nature and impressive
variety. Other options like Begonias and Alliums offer unique and colourful
beauty with their distinctive blooms and can extend the flowering season within
both commercial and domestic polytunnels when given the right environment,
represented by the choice of cover. It's certainly advisable to source bulbs,
seedlings and young plants from trusted and reputable online nurseries or
horticultural shows like the Hampton Court and Chelsea Flower Show.
These professional venues and suppliers, not
only provide access to high-quality products but also offer the opportunity to
learn from experienced growers about the best practices for polytunnel
gardening. Domestic and commercial polytunnels serve as ideal environments for
raising seedlings and young plants. The controlled conditions reduce the risk
of common setbacks such as frost, bitterly cold damage or infestations, which
are more prevalent in open garden situations. By starting young trees, plants,
bulbs, cuttings or seedlings in a polytunnel, growers can ensure stronger, more
resilient plants that are more likely to succeed when transplanted outdoors.
Effective Cultivation
To optimise growth and ease of maintenance,
certain infrastructural enhancements in the polytunnel can be beneficial.
Insulation might be necessary to maintain stable temperatures during colder
months. Additionally, installing growing benches and climbing frames is a
practical solution that elevates the plants' required growing spread, making
them easier to manage and enjoy. This setup is particularly advantageous for
smaller or more delicate bulbs, which may require closer attention and
individual care.
Experimentation
Different shapes and sizes of both domestic
polytunnels and commercial polytunnels, mean growers are encouraged to
experiment with different types of bulbs and plants to discover what works best
in their specific polytunnel conditions. This experimental approach can lead to
unique ways in which they have cultivated collections of plants that might not
be viable to grow in open UK garden conditions, thereby differentiating their
offerings and attracting a niche market of entrepreneurs and enthusiasts.
Why Polytunnels Are Essential to Garden
Centres and Growers
For garden centres and commercial growers,
the size and materials used in domestic polytunnels or commercial polytunnels, represent
a strategic investment in quality. They allow for the production of a
consistent supply of healthy, sale-ready plants and bulbs throughout the year.
This ability to control growing conditions and extend the growing season not
only enhances plant quality but also improves marketability and customer
satisfaction.
Read More:
A Quick Guide to Polytunnel Installation and Services
Commercial Polytunnels Offer Durability and Versatility
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