When it comes to protecting plants from frost, horticultural fleece is often the go-to choice for many gardeners. However, there are alternative options available if you don’t have access to or prefer not to use horticultural fleece. One such alternative is clear heavy-duty polythene.
Clear heavy-duty polythene, like horticultural fleece, provides protection against wind and hail, which can cause damage to plants. It also offers some degree of frost protection, although not as much as heavy-duty fleece. In my personal experience, I have found that using clear heavy-duty polythene can help prevent frost damage to a certain extent, especially for more hardy plants.
One advantage of using polythene is that it is transparent, allowing sunlight to penetrate and reach the plants. This is particularly beneficial during colder months when sunlight is limited. The transparency also allows you to monitor the condition of your plants without having to remove the covering.
However, it is important to note that polythene is not porous like fleece. This means that humidity can become trapped under the cover, potentially leading to disease problems such as mold or rot. To mitigate this, it is crucial to ensure proper ventilation by lifting the polythene during the day or creating small openings for air circulation. Additionally, watering may be necessary as the lack of porosity in polythene prevents natural irrigation from rainfall.
To effectively use clear heavy-duty polythene for frost protection, it is recommended to create a framework or structure to support the covering and prevent it from coming into direct contact with the plants. This can be achieved by using hoops or stakes to create a makeshift tunnel or by constructing a frame using PVC pipes or wooden stakes. Secure the polythene tightly to the frame, ensuring it is firmly in place to withstand strong winds.
While horticultural fleece is a popular choice for frost protection, clear heavy-duty polythene can serve as a viable alternative. It provides protection against wind and hail, with some degree of frost protection. However, it is important to be mindful of the lack of porosity, which can lead to humidity-related issues and the need for additional watering. By creating a well-ventilated structure and monitoring the plants closely, clear heavy-duty polythene can effectively safeguard your plants from frost damage.
