Greenhouses are more than just structures—they are finely tuned environments designed to optimize plant growth. One of the most crucial yet often overlooked elements in a greenhouse is the covering material. The greenhouse covering doesn’t just serve as a protective layer; it also regulates how much light, heat, and moisture your plants receive.
Whether you’re growing vegetables, flowers, or fruits commercially, choosing the right greenhouse covering can significantly impact crop yield, energy consumption, and plant quality. So, how exactly does the covering material affect your success? Let’s explore the science, materials, and strategies to help you make the best choice.
Your greenhouse covering acts as a filter for light, UV rays, and temperature. The material you choose will directly impact:
Light transmission (photosynthesis efficiency)
Thermal insulation (energy savings and plant protection)
UV filtration (pest management and crop longevity)
Durability and cost-efficiency
Plants need a controlled mix of sunlight and warmth to thrive. The right covering ensures your crops receive enough PAR light (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) while protecting them from excessive heat or UV stress.
Overview:
Flexible, affordable, and widely used. Typically replaced every 3–5 years.
Pros:
High light transmission (up to 90%)
Low cost and easy to install
Available in single or double layers for insulation
Cons:
Shorter lifespan (3–5 years)
Susceptible to UV degradation if untreated
Effect on Plants:
Ideal for seasonal crops or short-term ROI-focused operations.
Diffused light types improve uniform growth and reduce scorching.
Overview:
Rigid plastic material available in single or multi-wall formats.
Pros:
Excellent thermal insulation
Strong impact resistance
UV-resistant coatings available
Cons:
Higher initial investment than PE film
Can yellow over time if low quality
Effect on Plants:
Stable temperatures support consistent growth year-round.
Multi-wall structures reduce heat loss by 30–40%, saving energy.
Overview:
Traditional and aesthetically pleasing, often used in research and high-end facilities.
Pros:
Long lifespan (up to 25 years)
Maximum light transmission (90–92%)
Resistant to chemical degradation
Cons:
Heavy and requires strong framing
Expensive installation and maintenance
Effect on Plants:
Best for crops needing high light intensity.
Not ideal in harsh climates due to poor insulation.
Hot climates: Use diffused poly film or twin-wall polycarbonate to reduce overheating.
Cold climates: Choose materials with high R-value like double-layer polyethylene or multi-wall polycarbonate.
Leafy greens and herbs: Prefer diffused light, which reduces leaf burn.
Fruits and flowering plants: Require higher light intensity, making clear glass or single-layer film a better choice.
Tropical plants: Benefit from coverings that retain humidity and heat, such as double-layer poly film.
PE films are best for short-term projects or budget-conscious farms.
Polycarbonate is ideal for long-term commercial greenhouses.
Glass suits institutional or permanent installations with higher budgets.
Modern greenhouse coverings come with additives and coatings that further enhance performance:
Prevent water droplets from forming on the interior surface, reducing disease and improving light clarity.
Trap heat inside during cooler seasons, reducing heating costs.
Extend the lifespan of the material and protect crops from UV stress.
Scatter light to reach all parts of the plant canopy evenly, reducing shade stress.
These enhancements can mean the difference between average and excellent plant performance.
A tomato grower in Almería, Spain, switched from standard PE film to diffused polyethylene with IR additives. The results included:
18% higher yield over the season
Reduced blossom-end rot
15% lower heating costs
Better fruit coloration and size
The right covering material allowed for more stable temperatures, less water condensation, and uniform light distribution—key factors in tomato production.
When choosing a greenhouse covering, ask yourself:
What crops am I growing, and what light do they need?
What’s my local climate like—hot, cold, humid?
Am I planning short-term or long-term usage?
Do I want energy efficiency, maximum sunlight, or a balance of both?
It’s also important to consider installation support, warranty options, and custom sizing from your supplier.
Your greenhouse covering doesn’t just shelter your crops—it creates the environment your plants live and grow in. Investing in the right material means you’re investing in:
Faster growth
Better quality harvests
Lower energy and labor costs
Stronger ROI for your agri-business
Choosing the right greenhouse covering isn’t just a construction decision—it’s a strategic growing decision. Match the covering to your crop and climate, and your plants will thank you with better yields and performance.
We manufacture and export a wide range of greenhouse coverings, including UV-treated PE films, polycarbonate sheets, and integrated systems.
+86 189 2488 9901 +86 189 2455 5194
+86 189 2488 9901 +86 189 2455 5194
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