Growing tunnels or micro-tunnels are arched structures used to protect plants and promote their growth, a function that varies depending on the material. These additions can be used in
urban gardens directly in the ground, as well as in raised beds and garden beds. Want to know why we recommend them? Don't miss the new post from Deco and Lemon!
Growing tunnels in urban gardens to protect against birds
We've already talked about
how to use bird netting to prevent birds from accessing your urban garden.
Don't wait until your plants are attacked , especially if you're growing species that birds are particularly attracted to, such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, loquats, figs, or lettuce.
To do this, install a growing tunnel with this netting when transplanting
tender-leaved plants or covering plants, trees, and shrubs when they begin to bear fruit . We also recommend
its use when sowing seeds , as birds are often involved if the seeds don't germinate.
Microtunnel in the urban garden for frost protection
Now that Storm Filomena is still fresh in our minds, it's time to raise awareness about
the importance of protecting crops from frost . To do this, use a winter fabric over the structure or directly on the crops. This thermal blanket or veil
will increase the ambient temperature while still allowing air and water to pass through. We especially recommend it for inland areas or those located in the North.
Early harvests and late harvests
Generally, spring and summer garden transplants are carried out after the first frost to prevent cold damage. However, with micro-tunnels for urban gardens, this process can be brought forward. By increasing the ambient temperature and/or using a perforated film,
they act like a greenhouse , resulting in earlier harvests. Conversely,
summer crops can be covered, protecting them from the cold and allowing them to continue producing for a longer period , thus delaying transplanting.
Micro-tunnels for urban gardens to protect from the sun
It's also important to keep in mind that
excessive sunlight can damage your crops , causing sunburn on the fruit or preventing flowers from setting when temperatures are very high. Micro-tunnels, on the other hand,
can cover your plantings with shade netting , providing shade and controlling the amount of sunlight the plants receive. We hope our post on protecting your
urban garden has been helpful. If you already have one at home or need the tools to nurture it, keep an eye on us! At Deco and Lemon, you'll find everything you need for your garden!
Why add micro-tunnels to urban gardens?
Growing tunnels in urban gardens to protect against birds
We've already talked about how to use bird netting to prevent birds from accessing your urban garden. Don't wait until your plants are attacked , especially if you're growing species that birds are particularly attracted to, such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, loquats, figs, or lettuce.Microtunnel in the urban garden for frost protection
Now that Storm Filomena is still fresh in our minds, it's time to raise awareness about the importance of protecting crops from frost . To do this, use a winter fabric over the structure or directly on the crops. This thermal blanket or veil will increase the ambient temperature while still allowing air and water to pass through. We especially recommend it for inland areas or those located in the North.Early harvests and late harvests
Generally, spring and summer garden transplants are carried out after the first frost to prevent cold damage. However, with micro-tunnels for urban gardens, this process can be brought forward. By increasing the ambient temperature and/or using a perforated film, they act like a greenhouse , resulting in earlier harvests. Conversely, summer crops can be covered, protecting them from the cold and allowing them to continue producing for a longer period , thus delaying transplanting.Micro-tunnels for urban gardens to protect from the sun
It's also important to keep in mind that excessive sunlight can damage your crops , causing sunburn on the fruit or preventing flowers from setting when temperatures are very high. Micro-tunnels, on the other hand, can cover your plantings with shade netting , providing shade and controlling the amount of sunlight the plants receive. We hope our post on protecting your urban garden has been helpful. If you already have one at home or need the tools to nurture it, keep an eye on us! At Deco and Lemon, you'll find everything you need for your garden!