Important Polytunnel Jobs in October

In October, owners of both private and commercial polytunnels should be carrying out a hive of preparation activity. When it comes to your autumn polytunnel, it is important to get ready for the winter onslaught. Whilst planning your winter growing season, checking and ordering is probably top of your agenda, it is important not to lose sight of these areas that need looking at, such as checking polytunnels supplies. It is also worth checking for any damaged fixtures and fittings and giving your polytunnel cover a close inspection and clean. If you have a heating system maintainence and system checks are also important.

 Polytunnels Supplies

 

When it comes to supplies for your polytunnel, it is a good idea to stock up on certain supplies. Of course, there are some supplies that are more important than others.

 

During the cooler part of the year, you may find that there are more temperature fluctuations in your tunnel than during other times. We all know what the British weather is like. One day we can find ourselves treated to summer-like temperatures and then Mr Frost is knocking at the door.

 

Temperature fluctuations can in a worst-case scenario wreak havoc in both garden and commercial polytunnels. Damp and fungi are two of the biggest problems. Mealy bugs can also quickly infest your tunnel and devastate your new winter crops.

 

Neem Oil

 

One of the best preventative treatments available is Neem oil. As it is a natural product, it will not interfere with the taste or growth of your crops. You can spray it directly on plants and use it when you clean your polytunnel.

 

Although it is relatively a new product for UK polytunnel growers, it has been popular abroad for many years. Providing your plants are relatively healthy in the first place, Neem oil will help to boost the growing environment in your polytunnel.

 

Try adding it to your cleaning routine. You will soon notice far fewer problems with bugs and mould.

 

You can buy Neem oil online from online stores such as Amazon or from your local garden centre.

 

Winter Fertilisers

 

If you are planning on making the most out of your polytunnel during the winter period, it is a good idea to add fertilisers to your polytunnels supplies shopping list. A few crops including winter greens and beans appreciate a bit of an extra boost during the winter.

 

When you are planning on overwintering gardening plants you need to think about what they need. What you need is often down to the temperature of your tunnel during the winter. If your tunnel gets very cold, you want to make sure more exotic plants such as peaches and citrus fruits are kept cosy.

 

Add netting to your shopping list just in case you have some extra cold nights coming up. In that way, you don't risk losing any of your favourite exotic plants.

 

The good news is that many of the polytunnels supplies you need are available online. Alternatively, you can check out if your local polytunnel supplier can help you. Many polytunnel suppliers stock a range of handy supplies that you may find useful. If you need tips and advice for the winter growing season, they may also be able to help you.