Getting Your Polytunnel Ready for Winter

Autumn is the perfect time to give your polytunnel some TLC and get it plant-ready for spring. Investing time into maintenance pre-winter will help your polytunnel survive the winter unscathed and allow you to start growing again as soon as conditions are favourable. Of course, depending on your climate, you can still grow crops during winter and over-winter plants ready for spring.

 

Clean-Up

Autumn is an ideal time to give your polytunnel a thorough clean inside and out. Cleaning removes all the surface dirt and dust that builds up over the summer months. Sunlight in winter can be hard to come by, so you want to make the most of what is available. A clean polytunnel cover will allow maximum light through and help any plants you are growing.

 

Check For Damage

When you are cleaning your polytunnel, it is an ideal time to inspect it for damage, especially the cover. Inspect every inch of your cover and patch up any holes or tears with specialist repair tape on both sides. Taping both inside and out provides a stronger, more durable fix. Repairing any cover damage before winter storms arrive will help maintain the integrity of your polytunnel cover, prevent further cover damage and keep the inside temperature as high as possible.

Don't forget to inspect the structural supports of your polytunnel too. Check that all fixings are in place and are holding the cover securely. It's also worthwhile inspecting the area surrounding your polytunnel. Remove any objects such as fallen branches that might damage your polytunnel if the wind picks up.

Remove Unwanted Guests

Taking the time to tidy up plant beds ahead of winter is not only therapeutic, but it will also save you time come spring and let you get straight into planting. Remove any weeds but don't dig the soil unless you are overwintering crops. Keep an eye out for slugs and snails. Remove any that you find and put them outside for bird food.

Maintain the Temperature

If you are planning on growing crops over winter, you may need to invest in a heater. It can also be worthwhile adding insulating layers to retain more heat. Bubble wrap and protective fleece blankets are cost-effective options and can help to prevent frost in your polytunnel.

Winter Storage

A little bit of forethought can make your polytunnel a useful winter companion even if you are not growing crops. Consider using it to protect potted plants, store garden furniture over the winter months and even as a space to store your firewood.

One of the best things about polytunnels is their versatility. It is up to you how you use your polytunnel over winter. If you have the time and are willing to pay for heating, then you can grow a wide range of plants. If you don't feel inclined to garden over winter, you don't have to plant anything. Let the ground rest and recharge while you stay indoors and do the same!

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