Why Protect Your Garden With Tarpaulin?
Gardeners utilize tarpaulin coverings for a variety of reasons all through the growing season. A sturdy tarp can assist with shielding vulnerable plants from environmental threats like excess rain, sun, wind, frost or pests. By protecting plants with a breathable Tarpaulin, gardeners are able to broaden their harvest further into the season.
Keep Garden Beds Dry During Rain
Heavy spring rains can wreak havoc on delicate seedlings and soil structure if it becomes overly saturated. A lightweight garden tarp placed over beds during rainstorms allows water to disperse while still allowing airflow and preventing mud. This is especially important for clay-heavy soils that become incredibly dense when soaked.
Shield Plants From Excess Sun or Heat
During particularly blistering spells or in warmer climates, covering plants with a light-colored tarp helps reflect sunlight and retain several degrees less heat at soil level. This protective impact lets heat-intolerant plants thrive longer into summer. Tarps are ordinarily used over hoop house high tunnels and cold frames for added insulation too.
Prevent Frost or Freeze Damage
Come fall, an insulated tarp draped over an at-risk garden can make the difference between crops surviving or perishing during a surprise frost occasion. The tarp acts as a temperature cradle , trapping radiant heat near plants. This buying time until the following warm spell is crucial for frost-delicate greens and other fall vegetables.
Deter Pests Like Slugs and Bugs
A tightly woven tarp can serve as an effective barrier against normal garden pests. By enclosing plants under a tarp perimeter, issue pests like slugs, snails and leaf-eating insects are prevented from damaging crops. Japanese beetles, cabbage loopers and whiteflies are examples of pests that may leave tarped plants alone.
Tarpaulin Material Options
The sort of tarpaulin material used depends on the intended purpose and conditions. Here are some normal materials for garden tarps:
Plastic Tarps
Inexpensive polyethylene (PE) tarps are brilliant for short-term protection. They shed water well and will not degrade for several seasons. However, PE isn't breathable so shouldn't be used for delayed periods. More durable polyethylene tarps may also contain UV inhibitors for expanded sun exposure.
Fabric Tarps
Woven polypropylene (PP) tarps are more porous than plastic, allowing airflow exchange. They're more flexible and reusable long haul. Heavier duty PP tarps may contain UV inhibitors too.
Breathable Woven Covers
Floatation fabric is a super lightweight, semi-permeable material ideal for small garden protection. It's barely tangible so won't crush delicate plants. A decent choice for season extension reemay.
Choosing the Right Tarpaulin Size
Proper sizing is essential to completely cover the intended area while avoiding excess material. Consider these measurement factors:
Measure Garden Beds
Accurately determine the length and width dimensions of each bed or area to be covered. Measure twice to ensure you don't undershoot coverage.
Account for Overhang
Add at least 12 inches of overhang on all sides to the measurements to allow for secure anchoring. Overhang is especially important during windy conditions.
Buy Slightly Larger for Wriggle Room
Whenever the situation allows, size up for a couple of extra inches past overhang to provide breathing room. The Clear Tarpaulin shouldn't be too tight, as this might actually damage plants as it moves during weather.
Tarpaulin Solutions for Specific Garden Needs
Different plant types and growing conditions may call for tailored tarp solutions. Here are some examples:
Row Cover Tarps for Seedlings
Ultralight Floatation fabric is best for hardening off seedlings or warming the soil. The breathable material protects from wind and frost without suffocating. It's eliminated during the day.
Hoop House Kits for Season Extension
Prefab hoop house kits form a quonset style structure around plants using PE tarps stretched over hoops. Internal temperatures are boosted 5 10°F for growing season-stretching impact.
Fruit Tree Tarps to Prevent Bird Damage
When fruits start forming, a tarp draped over tree branches deters migratory birds seeking berries and apples. They avoid feeding underneath without other deterrents required. Eliminate before harvest.
FAQs
What's the best way to secure a tarp?
It is critical to Stake perimeter edges and corners. Rocks, boards or fabric laid over the top add stability. For breezier spots, use metal or wooden stakes intended for tarps. Fellow wires anchored to stakes at each corner further prevent bunching or billowing.
How do I wash a dirty tarp?
For plastic or lightly soiled fabric tarps, a pressure washer or hose with delicate cleaner works. For heavier stains, soak the moved tarp in a mild bleach solution before rinsing. Hang to dry out of direct light which causes further degradation.
Can different materials be combined?
Yes! It's normal to use a more durable material like polypropylene for the base and a lighter-duty breathable fabric for the top section. This provides ventilation while protecting the bottom layer from wear and tear. Ensure materials are compatible before securing together.
How do I store a tarp over winter?
Roll the cleaned and dry tarp loosely, secure with rope or ties, and stash in a dry area like the rafters of a garden shed or garage. Outdoor storage on a raised frame risks weather damage. Plastic tarps in particular degrade faster when exposed long haul.
Conclusion
There are many effective tarpaulin solutions for gardens that simply require the right material matched to intended use. While plastic tarps work well short-term, breathable woven fabrics ensure proper airflow exchange for plants. Proper sizing with ample overhang and secure anchoring also prevents gaps in coverage. With some practice, tarps become a simple yet invaluable season extension technique.
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