Greenhouse Polythene materials provide unparalleled control over the growing conditions for high level production.
This article talks about the cost, specifications, types, and importance of greenhouse polythene sheets. We have also outlined the things to consider when looking for a supplier of greenhouse polythene materials.
What is Greenhouse Polythene Sheet?
A greenhouse polythene sheet is a plastic film designed for use a greenhouse primary cover material. It makes the inner environment ideal for crop propagation by trapping air and preventing humidity. When integrated with other cladding material such as insect nets or shade nets, the microclimate formed is at optimal condition.
How does Greenhouse Polythene Work?
Its primary function is to create a controlled micro-environment within the greenhouse, distinct from the external atmosphere. This controlled environment is crucial for optimizing plant growth by regulating temperature, humidity, and light.
Features of Greenhouse Film
- UV Stabilization: Greenhouse polythene has UV protection to prevent it from degradation by the sun.
- Light Diffusion: it allows light to diffuse into the greenhouse and reduce direct sunlight radiation.
- Anti-drip Properties: to prevent humidity or condensation on the inside surface of the film and in the end lower fungal infection.
- Smooth Surface: Prevent dust and wear during hailstorms or heavy rains.
- Flexible: Its surface is flexible and thus makes it easier to wrap around poles.
Benefits
- Extend growing seasons: Crops can be grown year-round, regardless of external weather conditions like heavy rains, strong winds, or cold spells.
- Cultivate high-value crops: Delicate crops, such as flowers (roses, carnations), exotic vegetables (capsicums, cherry tomatoes), and herbs, thrive in greenhouse environment.
- Protect crops from pests and diseases: The physical barrier of the polythene significantly reduces pest infestation and the spread of airborne diseases, leading to reduced reliance on pesticides.
- Optimize resource utilization: Greenhouses facilitate efficient water use through drip irrigation, minimizing evaporation. Nutrient application is also controllable.
- Achieve higher yields and better-quality produce: The ideal growing conditions translate to healthier plants, faster growth rates. Ultimately, you get high yield and super quality produce, fetching better market prices.
- Propagate seedlings: Greenhouses provide an excellent environment for germinating seeds and nurturing young seedlings before transplanting, increasing their survival rate.
Additional Uses of Greenhouse Polythene Materials
Beyond greenhouse covering, it is also applicable for:
- Silage covering: Used to cover silage pits, promoting anaerobic fermentation for livestock feed.
- Solar dryers: Employed as a cover for solar dryers to trap heat and efficiently dry agricultural produce.
Specifications of Greenhouse Polythene Sheet
- Thickness (gauge) – 200 microns
- UV stabilized (contains UV additive)
- 80-90 % light transmission
- Available in yellow or clear white colours.
- Standard length of 100m
- Width varies from 4 to 14m
- Customizable as per your required sizes.
Types of Greenhouse Polythene Sheets
Clear White: allow maximum light penetration. Ideal for crops like tomatoes, capsicum, and strawberries that require high light intensity. They are also suitable for multi-colored flowers.
Yellow: Yellow films often have better anti-drip and anti-fog properties. Ideal for crops that can thrive under s lower light intensity, such as leafy vegetables, and herbs. Also best for areas with high temperature for light diffusion and reduction of heat build up.
Greenhouse Polythene Vs Polycarbonate
| Feature | Greenhouse Polythene | Polycarbonate Sheets |
| Initial Cost | Low | Medium-High |
| Durability | Good (3-5 years) | Excellent (10+ years) |
| Light Transmission | High (80-90%) | High (88-92%) |
| Light Diffusion | Good (with additives) | Good (multi-wall panels) |
| Insulation | Good (with additives) | Excellent |
| Installation | Easy | Moderate (requires more support) |
| Maintenance | Easy (cleaning, patching, replacement) | Low (cleaning) |
| Impact Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Flexibility | High | Low |
Advantages of Greenhouse Polythene Over Polycarbonate Films
Polycarbonate films are alternative type of greenhouse cover material but are less preferred in Kenya. Most farmers prefer greenhouse polythenes over polycarbonate due to;
- Cost-Effectiveness: Polythene sheets are significantly more affordable to purchase and install compared glass and polycarbonate. This makes greenhouse farming viable for small-scale growers.
- Ease of Installation: Polythene is lightweight and flexible, making it much easier to transport, handle, and install. It can be cut to size and typically requires simpler framing structures.
- Excellent Light diffusion: The ability to incorporate diffusion additives provides a superior light environment, reducing plant stress and promoting uniform growth.
- Good Insulation Properties: Especially with IR-treated films, polythene can offer good thermal insulation, helping maintain stable temperatures within the greenhouse.
- Pest and Disease Control: polythene effectively seals the greenhouse, preventing pests.
What to Consider when Choosing Greenhouse Polythene
- Quality Assurance: consider high-quality UV-treated polythene that meets specified micron thickness and has UV treatment. They should be able to provide certifications.
- Product Specification: Check the available product types and if they cater for different crop requirements and greenhouse size.
- Customization: Also inquire about custom sizes.
- Technical Expertise and Support: The supplier should have knowledgeable staff who can advise on the best type of polythene for your specific crop, climate, and greenhouse structure. They should also provide guidance on installation and maintenance.
- Competitive Pricing: While quality shouldn’t be compromised for price, an ideal supplier offers competitive rates per square meter
- Reputation and Experience: Look for suppliers with a strong reputation in the Kenyan agricultural sector, positive customer reviews, and a proven track record of reliability and good service.
- After-Sales Service: Consider after sale services such as installation and delivery.
Greenhouse Material for Sale in Kenya
Aqua Hub LTD is a top Greenhouse polythene supplier in Kenya offering both yellow and clear polythene sheets. Our Prices are way affordable compared to other top suppliers in the market.
Call 0790719020
