About.

What is “HOOP HOUSE”?

“HOOP HOUSE” started as a UK-based project of experimentation, to explore the possibilities of enabling a longer term journey of discovery and achievement in growing plants for culinary and medicinal uses.

THE OBJECTIVE: Create a viable venture from using a hoop house of 20m X 10m, with no mains electricity and no mains water; rainwater collected approx 800m (0.5 miles) away. So essentially an “off-grid” hoop house. We are currently on this journey of exploration and discovery, to achieve a viable venture, and to also have lots and lots of fun on the way!

THE CHALLENGES: A steep learning curve as well as reliability of water supply (rain water), low water pressure (gravity fed over 800m), irrigation methods (e.g., above, below), electricity/power, crop types (e.g., herbs, lettuces, cabbages, beans, tomatoes, chillies, peppers, courgettes etc), fertilisers (e.g., chemical, natural, homemade, foliage vs fruit), pests (e.g., flies, slugs, caterpillars, mice), diseases (e.g., plant specific, mould, blight), resources, plant lifecycles, seasons, propagation, composting, plus of course a business plan (including focus, offering, marketing strategy including routes to market, investment, feasibility, scale, viability) and time allocation. Phew! Sounds a lot when written down and probably a lot missing!

And today…HOOP HOUSE is resisting the shackles and imposition of boundaries and constraints, aiming to balance all the opportunities of outdoor “education” with outdoor “activities”. A path of continued exploration and discovery.

What is a Hoop House?

A hoop house, also known as a poly tunnel, high tunnel, or hot house is a type of greenhouse structure that is typically made from flexible materials such as plastic, PVC, or metal hoops, and covered with a layer of polyethylene plastic or similar material. Hoop houses are used in agriculture and gardening to extend the growing season by protecting crops from adverse weather conditions, including frost, wind, and excessive rain. They provide a controlled environment that can enhance plant growth and yield, making them a valuable tool for farmers and gardeners alike.

Hoop House Structure and Design

  • Frame: The frame of a hoop house is usually constructed from metal or PVC pipes bent into a series of arches, which are then anchored to the ground.

  • Covering: The frame is covered with a layer of polyethylene plastic or other UV-resistant materials that allow sunlight to penetrate while retaining heat.

  • Size: Hoop houses can vary in size from small structures suitable for backyard gardens to large, commercial-scale installations.

Benefits of a Hoop House

  1. Extended Growing Season: By providing a warmer, more controlled environment, hoop houses allow for planting earlier in the spring and extending the harvest period into the fall or winter.

  2. Protection from Weather: Hoop houses shield plants from harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain, strong winds, and frost, reducing the risk of crop damage.

  3. Improved Crop Quality: The controlled environment can result in healthier plants and higher-quality produce.

  4. Pest and Disease Management: While not completely pest-proof, hoop houses can reduce the incidence of certain pests and diseases by creating a barrier between crops and the outside environment.

  5. Cost-Effective: Compared to traditional greenhouses, hoop houses are relatively inexpensive and easy to construct, making them accessible to a wide range of growers.

Uses of a Hoop House

  • Vegetable Production: Commonly used for growing vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and leafy greens.

  • Season Extension: Ideal for extending the growing season of various crops.

  • Seedling Protection: Provides a safe environment for starting seedlings before transplanting them outdoors.

  • Specialty Crops: Useful for growing specialty crops that require a more controlled environment.

Hoop House Considerations

  • Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent overheating and maintain optimal growing conditions.

  • Irrigation: Adequate irrigation systems are necessary to ensure consistent water supply to the plants.

  • Maintenance: Regular maintenance of the structure and covering material is required to ensure longevity and effectiveness.

In Summary

In summary, a hoop house is a versatile and cost-effective tool that can significantly enhance crop production by providing a controlled environment for growing plants. Whether you are a home gardener or a commercial farmer, a hoop house can help you achieve better yields and extend your growing season.