Greenhouse Plastic Film Guide: Choosing the Right Cover for Maximum Crop Protection

Greenhouse plastic is one of the most critical components in modern agricultural greenhouse design. Whether you're growing vegetables, flowers, or tropical fruits, the right plastic film can dramatically influence your yield, energy costs, and disease control. With many types of materials and features on the market, choosing the best greenhouse plastic is not just about price—it's about performance, durability, and crop protection.

In this guide, we break down the key types of greenhouse plastics, their advantages, and how to choose the best cover film for your specific needs.

Understanding Greenhouse Plastic Types

a) PE (Polyethylene) Film

PE is the most commonly used plastic for commercial greenhouses due to its affordability and good light transmission. It’s usually available in single or double layers and can last 1–3 years depending on quality.

Pros:

• Cost-effective

• Easy to install

• Widely available

Cons:

• Shorter lifespan without UV stabilization

• Prone to tearing in strong wind

b) EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) Film

EVA film is known for its enhanced elasticity, thermal insulation, and better light diffusion compared to PE.

Pros:

• Superior thermal insulation (reduces night heat loss)

• Anti-drip and anti-fog properties

• Stronger tensile strength

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than PE

• Requires careful handling during installation

c) PO (Polyolefin) Film

PO film is a high-performance greenhouse plastic with excellent light transmittance and durability. It’s especially popular in advanced horticulture projects.

Pros:

• High UV resistance (3–5 years lifespan)

• Excellent clarity and diffusion

• Anti-drip, anti-dust, anti-fog coatings available

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost

• Best suited for long-term or high-value crops

2. Key Features to Consider

a) UV Resistance

Outdoor exposure causes ordinary plastic to degrade quickly. High-quality greenhouse films come with UV stabilizers, extending their life up to 5 years or more. In sunny or high-altitude climates, UV protection is essential.

b) Light Transmission vs. Diffusion

• High Light Transmission: Promotes photosynthesis; ideal for most crops

• Light Diffusion: Scatters light evenly; reduces plant burn and improves lower leaf exposure

Choose your film based on your crop’s light needs. Tomatoes and cucumbers often benefit from diffused light, while leafy greens prefer direct light.

c) Anti-Drip and Anti-Fog Coating

These coatings prevent condensation droplets from forming and dripping on plants, which helps reduce disease spread and improves light clarity.

d) Thickness and Layering

Common greenhouse film thickness ranges between 100–200 microns (4–8 mil). Thicker films are more durable but may reduce light penetration. Double-layer systems (with air between layers) improve insulation but increase setup cost.

3. Climate & Crop-Based Recommendations

For flower cultivation, opt for high-diffusion films; for vegetables like lettuce or herbs, high light-transmission PE films may suffice.

4. Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Stretch the plastic tightly during installation to avoid sagging and water pooling.

• Use proper greenhouse clips or fasteners to prevent tearing at the edges.

• Clean the film regularly with mild soap and soft brushes—dirt can reduce light penetration by 10–30%.

• Replace your film when it starts showing signs of brittleness or yellowing.

5. Should You Buy Greenhouse Plastic in Bulk?

If you operate multiple greenhouses or plan long-term farming, consider bulk purchase from a greenhouse plastic manufacturer. Benefits include:

• Lower unit price

• Custom widths and lengths

• Factory-direct quality control

• Export packaging with UV-protected wrapping

Conclusion

Choosing the right greenhouse plastic isn’t just a technical decision—it directly impacts your crop health, energy efficiency, and long-term ROI. Whether you choose PE, EVA, or PO film, make sure your selection matches your crop type, climate, and budget.

As a professional greenhouse manufacturer, we supply high-quality, UV-resistant plastic film solutions designed for commercial use. Need help choosing? Contact us for customized recommendations and global shipping.