Building a DIY hoophouse is an exciting project for any gardening enthusiast looking to extend their growing season. A hoophouse, a series of large hoops or bows covered with heavy greenhouse plastic, creates a protected space for plants, shielding them from harsh weather conditions and pests. This simple yet effective structure can dramatically increase both the variety and quantity of plants you can grow, making it possible to cultivate fruits and vegetables that would otherwise struggle in your climate. In this blog, we will explore the 7 best plants that thrive in the controlled environment of a hoophouse. From luscious tomatoes to crisp leafy greens, these selections are not only adaptable to the hoophouse conditions but are known to produce bountiful harvests. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting, growing these plants in your DIY hoophouse will yield rewarding results and a garden that flourishes year-round.
1. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a favorite among hoophouse gardeners, not just for their versatility in the kitchen but also for their resilience and responsiveness to the controlled climate. Unlike outdoor cultivation, which subjects them to unpredictable weather and pests, a hoophouse offers protection and a stable environment. This often results in earlier and more prolonged harvests, with plants producing sweet and juicy fruits that are a cut above in terms of taste and texture. Plus, the satisfaction of harvesting your own tomatoes is unmatched!
2. Cucumbers              Â
Cucumbers flourish in the warm, controlled environment of a hoophouse, producing crisp, refreshing fruits much earlier in the season than their garden-grown counterparts. Their fast growth rate and high yield make them an optimal choice for hoophouse cultivation. Not to mention, growing cucumbers vertically on trellises can greatly save space and facilitate easier harvesting. These qualities combined make cucumbers not only a practical but also a visually appealing addition to your hoophouse garden.
3. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and lettuce, thrive in the cool yet sunny conditions of a hoophouse, making them ideal for both fall and spring cultivation. These greens are not only nutritious additions to any meal but also highly adaptable to partial shade, allowing for efficient use of space by planting them under taller crops. The controlled environment of a hoophouse minimizes pests and disease, ensuring a bountiful and healthy harvest of greens throughout the season.
4. Peppers
Peppers, both sweet and hot varieties, are excellent candidates for hoophouse growing. They benefit from the stable, warm environment, leading to more robust growth and a higher yield of fruits. The protection from wind and cooler temperatures means plants can mature earlier and produce peppers that are richer in flavor and color. Whether for cooking, canning, or fresh eating, peppers can add a spicy kick or sweet crunch to any dish.
5. Strawberries
Strawberries are a sweet treat that take well to the hoophouse environment, offering gardeners the joy of harvesting their own succulent berries much earlier than usual. These beloved fruits appreciate the warm, protected conditions, leading to larger, more flavorful berries. Furthermore, strawberries grown in a hoophouse are less susceptible to pests and diseases, making them not only a delicious but also a practical choice for any hoophouse gardener.
6. Herbs
Herbs like basil, mint, and cilantro immensely benefit from the controlled climate of a hoophouse, flourishing with vibrant flavors and aromas. These versatile plants not only enhance a wide range of dishes but also thrive with minimal space, making them perfect for smaller hoophouses. Plus, having a year-round supply of fresh herbs at your fingertips is a luxury that will elevate your cooking and gardening enjoyment.
7. Eggplants
Eggplants excel in the hoophouse environment, flourishing into robust plants that yield an impressive bounty of rich, flavorful fruits. The steady warmth and protection from elements encourage strong growth and early fruiting. Eggplants, with their versatile use in cooking, become an aesthetically pleasing addition to any garden with their striking purple hues. Cultivating them under the controlled conditions of a hoophouse ensures a plentiful harvest, satisfying any gardener's aspirations.
Roberts Ranch Has All Your Hoophouse Needs Covered
Building your own DIY hoophouse is an enriching venture that can transform your gardening experience by extending your growing season and improving the quality of your harvests. The seven plants highlighted above are just the starting point for creating a lush, productive garden that thrives under the added protection and controlled environment a hoophouse offers. Whether you are drawn to the sweet taste of strawberries, the versatile bounty of tomatoes, or the robust flavors of fresh herbs, a hoophouse can accommodate a diverse range of plants that ensure a rewarding gardening experience.
At Roberts Ranch Hoophouses, we're here to support you every step of the way. For more information on building your own hoophouse or the crops that benefit the most from a closed environment, contact us today.