The Hoophouse

My father gave me a roll of plastic sheeting that he no longer needed. Lucky me! I have the perfect project for this roll of treasure...A hoophouse. I've read about being able to extent the growing seasons by using this easily constructed cover and this weekend I started building my own. Of course I did a little research on Youtube and found this video and this video for some hoop house inspiration.

The local mega hardware store carries all the necessary materials. I'm using 3/4" schedule 40 PVC pipe, duct tape and some heavy duty clamps I found in the shop.

I started by drilling holes every 4 feet in the bench that runs along the top side of my garden box. I found that a spade drill bit worked well for making the holes.

Slid the PVC pipe into holes.

And within a half an hour, I had the framework finished. I used a total of seven pieces of 10' pipe and secured the top cross members with duct tape. I think nylon ties would also work nicely for holding the pipe in place, but I didn't have any. So hundred mile an hour tape it is.

Using a T-square and a straight edge, I cut the plastic to size and pulled it over the frame.

I used these really nice clamps to secure the plastic.

Now, I'll wait until tomorrow to see how effective the hoop house is.