5 Misconceptions of Greenhouse Covers

In the dynamic realm of horticulture, greenhouse covers stand as your trusted allies, whether you’re nurturing fruits, veggies, cannabis, or ornamental treasures. Yet, myths often swirl around these essential tools.

In this blog, we unravel some of these misconceptions intending to empower you to maximize your harvest.

Let’s kick things off by dispelling the very first myth.

Misconception 1: "Greenhouse Covers Are Only for Temperature Control"

Likely, the most common misconception about greenhouse covers is that they serve just one purpose: temperature regulation. While this is an essential function, it’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Instead, greenhouse covers are multi-faceted tools that play, among others, the following roles:

Temperature control
Light diffusion
Protection from adverse weather
Pest and disease control
Enhanced Carbon Dioxide levels
Increased humidity control
Water conservation
Season extension
Crop variety and experimentation
Improved crop quality
Energy efficiency

Greenhouse covers are multi-faceted essentials in the horticulture ecosystem. They provide a controlled microenvironment suitable for optimal growth and development of your crop. Maintaining the right temperature and humidity levels is paramount. The addition of greenhouse covers does that and more. They shield the crop from harsh weather, pests, and UV radiation, creating a suitable environment where the crop can thrive, flourish, and grow.

For fruit orchards, net-like covers act as climate moderators, ensuring your fruit-bearing trees are in their comfort zone to produce fruit in the next season. What’s more, they double as barriers against insect invasions and unpredictable storms, which may result in the loss of products and profit.

Finally, in the world of ornamental plants, where aesthetics are paramount, greenhouse covers maintain the ideal atmosphere for delicate blooms. They fend off potential flower-damaging pests and UV rays.

Misconception 2: "All Greenhouse Covers Are Created Equal"

The misconception that all greenhouses are created equal couldn’t be further from the truth. In reality, greenhouse covers can vary significantly in terms of material, properties, and performance. Here’s a breakdown of just how different greenhouse covers can be:

Material Composition: Greenhouse covers can be made from various materials, including polyethylene, polycarbonate, acrylic, glass, ETFE, and more. You’ll find that each of these has distinct properties that affect, among others, insulation, light diffusion, durability, and cost.
Light Transmission: Different greenhouse cover materials have varying levels of light transmission. Some materials diffuse light, which can be beneficial for uniform plant growth, while others allow direct light at a higher quantity. The choice of material can impact your crop’s development.
UV Resistance: Exposure to UV radiation can degrade greenhouse covers over time. High-quality greenhouse covers are designed to resist UV damage, ensuring a longer lifespan and better protection for your plants.
Thermal Insulation: Greenhouse covers differ in their ability to retain heat. Some materials are better insulators than others, which is crucial for maintaining stable temperatures and extending the growing season.
Impact Resistance: Greenhouse covers need to withstand hail, falling debris, or strong winds. Not all materials are equally resistant to impact, and when you choose the cover material for your green house, you should consider the local weather conditions in your area.

These are just a few properties that differentiate the different greenhouse covers available in the market. Your specific needs should inform the type of greenhouse cover you go for.

Misconception 3: "Greenhouse Covers Are Costly and Not Worth the Investment"

This misconception is one of the most detrimental beliefs for growers. The best way to demystify it is by highlighting the numerous benefits and potential return on investment (ROI) that greenhouse covers offer:

Extended Growing Season: Greenhouse covers create a controlled environment where temperature and humidity can be regulated. This extended growing season means you can cultivate your crop throughout the year which translates to increased productivity and revenue.
Higher Crop Yields: With the right greenhouse cover, you can provide optimal conditions for plant growth. Compared to field agriculture, greenhouses allow for higher crop yields which translates to increased sales and profit.
Protection from Adverse Weather: The right greenhouse cover will shield your crop from harsh weather conditions prevalent within your locality.
Reduced Pest and Disease Pressure: Greenhouse covers act as a barrier against pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. This translates to lower input costs and higher quality produce.
Water and Energy Efficiency: The right cover will reduce water consumption and save energy.
Crop Diversification: With the right kind of greenhouse, you can cultivate a wide variety of crops, including specialty and high-value crops. This translates to a greater ability to tap into target niche markets and premium prices.
Local Market Access: With the ability to grow in any location and in any season, a greenhouse grower can easily leverage the growing consumer preference for locally sourced, fresh, and seasonal products.
Long-Term Investment: Granted, the initial costs associated with building and maintaining a greenhouse are high. Still, you stand to reap good returns from this investment.

Misconception 4: "Greenhouse Covers Are Harmful to the Environment"

This myth couldn’t be further from the truth especially given that modern greenhouse covers are designed with sustainability in mind. In fact, these covers can reduce your environmental footprint in multiple ways.

One example is a reduced need for chemical pesticides when using the right greenhouse cover . This is a win for both your crop and the environment. Additionally, one can benefit significantly from the eco-friendly aspect of greenhouse covers. Specifically, you can reduce water consumption as you’ll have minimized evaporation and reduced pesticide use, which resonates with the health-conscious consumer. Overall, you can better practice responsible horticulture with the right greenhouse cover.

Misconception 5: "Installing Greenhouse Covers Is a Complicated Process"

Greenhouse cover installation may sound intimidating, but with the right guidance and a well-thought-out plan, it becomes relatively straightforward. Moreover, you’ll often find that most suppliers offer installation services to ensure your greenhouse covers are snugly fitted and optimized for your specific crop requirements.

Ready to Elevate Your Horticultural Journey? Greenhouse Covers Hold the Key!

Greenhouse covers are not mere accessories; they’re the cornerstone of your horticultural success. They create the ideal condition, shield your crops from adversity, and propel your yields to new heights. Don’t wait! Seize the opportunity to harness the power of greenhouse covers. Get a quote today, and let these covers be the catalyst for your journey to horticultural excellence!

Eric Moody

Eric Moody is UbiQD's Director of UbiGro Sales. Eric has more than 8 years of experience in the horticulture lighting industry, building relationships with greenhouse growers of all sizes and crops on optimal lighting for their growing operation, and most recently managed a North American sales team for PL Light Systems. Overall, Eric has been in sales leadership positions for more than 17 years. Eric brings with him a great understanding of the market and available technologies for growers, greenhouse facilities, and sales leadership.