High tunnel greenhouses are an economical way to keep plants protected from the frost without the expense of adding heat. Typically high tunnel greenhouses are covered with poly film. This material offers a fair amount of protection from the frost and the elements, but it tears easily in strong winds.  Additionally, the heavy snow tends to accumulate on the poly causing it to stretch, tear, or even bend the greenhouse frame.  Poly film is also not practical or economical to heat due to its low insulation (R) value. With unusual weather occurrences, like a polar vortex, growers using poly are vulnerable to crop loss from a single cold snap.

Solexx greenhouse panels are the best covering for high tunnel greenhouses 

1. Durability. Growers count on Solexx to protect their plants in strong wind, driving rain, hail and snow. Extremely strong and durable, Solexx does not tear. Solexx eliminates the need to constantly patch and replace poly-film. Warranted for 10 years against UV degradation – Solexx provides decades or more of hassle-free, worry-free protection for your plants.
2. Better Protection from Cold and Heat. Due to its excellent insulation (2.3 R-Value), an unheated Solexx high tunnel greenhouse provides a longer growing season than one covered in poly film. In addition when a cold front strikes, growers are able to efficiently heat their high tunnel if needed. Solexx also helps to reduce heat buildup in the summer and can be installed in combination with poly roll up sides for increased ventilation.
3. Improved Plant Growth. Along with the insulating and strength qualities, Solexx also provides 100% diffuse light. Diffuse light is much gentler on plants and eliminates burning. The light is scatted throughout the greenhouse which creates more photosynthesis and accelerated plant growth. Studies show plants are ready for market 25% faster when grown under diffuse light.

Take advantage of The Seasonal High Tunnel Initiative

The Seasonal High Tunnel Initiative is a voluntary program that provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers to help extend the growing season for high value crops in an environmentally sustainable manor by improving plant quality, reducing nutrient and pesticide transportation, improving air quality through reduced transportation inputs, and reducing energy use by providing consumers with a local source of fresh produce. Solexx qualifies as a way to make local food available several weeks more of the year while reducing the impact on the environment.

Those eligible to apply include individuals, legal entities, Indian Tribes, or joint operations engaged in agricultural production. Organic producers who grow agricultural commodities on eligible land may participate in the Seasonal High Tunnel Initiative.  See the EQIP website for more information about eligibility for financial assistance.

Applications are being accepted on a continuous basis; however, each state may have one or more application deadlines. Don’t worry if you miss the deadline; you will still be considered for future funding. Information about how to apply and deadlines for each state, is available on the website.

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