Showing posts with label Hoop Houses. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hoop Houses. Show all posts

Friday, May 15, 2026

What to Look for in a High Tunnel Inflation Kit (Before You Buy a High Tunnel Kit)

Thinking about investing in a high tunnel kit with a double-layer system? 

Not all setups are created equal, and the difference often comes down to the quality of the inflation components. While many kits are labeled “double-layer,” the actual performance can vary significantly
depending on how the system is built.

What to Look for in a High Tunnel Inflation Kit

Not all “double-layer” systems are the same. If you’re comparing kits, look for:

  • A dedicated inflation fan
  • A sealed air path between the layers (we call it a jumper)
  • Proper attachment systems (channel and wiggle wire, not improvised fastening)
  • Tight installation details, especially at endwalls and corners

If the system can’t hold pressure, it won’t stay tight, and you lose most of the benefits. Learn more in our latest article. 

Choose the Right High Tunnel Kit by Starting with the Right Inflation System

When evaluating a high tunnel kit, the inflation system is one of the most important factors in long-term performance. A properly designed setup, featuring a dedicated fan, sealed air pathways, and secure attachment systems, ensures the plastic stays tight, stable, and effective in real-world conditions.

Ready to make a smarter investment in your high tunnel kit? Reach out to our team to compare options, review system details, and find a setup designed for durability, efficiency, and long-term success in your growing environment.

Thursday, January 15, 2026

How to Maximize Your Hoop House Use

If you want your hoop house to deliver consistent, predictable harvests year-round, you need more than good seeds and healthy soil—you need a seasonal strategy. Mapping out your seasonal cycle ensures every month supports plant health, soil vitality, and steady yields.

Here’s how to build a smart, season-based plan for your hoop house.

Map Out a Seasonal Cycle

farmers standing in front of a Nifty Hoops Hoop House
Begin by structuring your calendar into four general seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. Use
succession planting to overlap crops—e.g., start cool-season greens as soon as the frost recedes, then transition to warmth-loving crops, and finish with cold-hardy root vegetables or brassicas as winter approaches.

Choose the Right Crops for Each Season

Each season offers unique opportunities to rotate crops that align with soil temperature, light levels, and your hoop house’s ability to buffer weather extremes. Matching your plantings to these seasonal strengths not only boosts yield but also supports healthier soil and more predictable harvest windows.

For a detailed breakdown of specific crops to plant in spring, summer, fall, and winter—plus examples of the best cold-hardy varieties and warm-season favorites—check out our full guide.

Practice Soil Health and Crop Rotation

Rotate crop species to break pest cycles.  Don’t plant brassica after brassica after brassica, but slip some spinach or lettuce in there to mitigate the risk from pathogens or insects.

If you see a stretch of time in your crop plan with a lot of empty bed space, use cover crops inside the hoop house during transition periods to build organic matter, suppress weeds, and break pest cycles. The NRCS recommends integrating cover crops and crop rotations as part of a high tunnel system. 


Learn more about year-round crop planting for your hoop house farm in our latest article. 

Plan Every Season, Grow Every Season in Your Hoop House 

A well-structured seasonal plan is the key to thriving, year-round production in your hoop house. Whether you’re preparing for spring greens or winter harvests, thoughtful seasonal mapping keeps your system efficient and productive.

👉 Ready to grow year round? Reach out to us today to learn more about our hoop house options. 

Thursday, January 1, 2026

Why Year-round Planning Matters for Your Hoop House

Ever wondered how top growers keep their hoop house productive through snow, heat waves, and everything in between? Or how they manage to harvest greens in February and tomatoes by May?

The secret isn’t luck — it’s year-round planning.

Why Year-Round Planning Matters in a Hoop House

A farmer working with his crew around their establish hoop houses
Hoop houses (also called high tunnels) are powerful season-extension tools. According to the USDA NRCS, these structures can help farmers grow earlier in the spring, later into the fall, and even year-round, by creating a more stable, warmer microclimate.

But, without proper planning, you risk getting timing wrong, exhausting your soil, running into pest buildups, or underutilizing your hard-earned infrastructure. That’s where deliberate crop planning comes in.

Make sure you:

  1. Map Out a Seasonal Cycle
  2. Choose the Right Crops for Each Season
  3. Practice Soil Health and Crop Rotation
  4. Balance Water, Fertility & Pest Management
  5. Check out our latest article for in-depth tips! 


Ready to Maximize Your Hoop House?

If you want a thriving, profitable, year-round system, planning is the foundation. The more strategically you use your hoop house, the more value it delivers all year long.

Let’s grow smarter together — and get the most out of your hoop house every season.

Monday, December 15, 2025

How to Apply for the NRCS High Tunnel Initiative

Thinking about installing a high tunnel to extend your growing season and protect your crops—but not sure how to start the NRCS application process? You’re not alone! 

The NRCS High Tunnel Initiative can make this investment more affordable by offering cost-share funding and expert guidance, but timing and paperwork matter. 

How to Apply for the High Tunnel Initiative

Here’s a step‑by‑step approach to qualify and submit an application:

  • Contact your local NRCS field office or service center: This is your first step to discuss the 
    initiative and confirm your local deadlines, as these can differ by state and region.
  • Develop or update your conservation plan: NRCS will work with you to create or review a conservation plan (often via EQIP) that ensures the high tunnel supports resource‑conserving cropping systems and site conditions. 
  • Prepare your application and supporting documentation: This typically includes farm identification, crop history or planned crop use, land eligibility, and compliance with HEL/wetland and income rules.
  • Submit the application before the cutoff deadline: NRCS uses ranking periods; missing a deadline could mean waiting for the next signup window.
  • If selected, construct the high tunnel following NRCS specifications: Ensure the high tunnel is installed as designed, inspected, and approved by NRCS to secure the cost‑share assistance. 


Learn more about what it takes to qualify for NRCS assistance in our latest article.


Let’s Get Growing Together!

Whether you’re applying for your first tunnel or expanding your operation, we’re here to roll up our sleeves with you. Visit our NRCS page for more information, helpful resources, and next steps.

Let’s get your high tunnel growing—strong, steady, and ready for every season! Reach out today! 

Monday, December 1, 2025

Who Qualifies for the NRCS High Tunnel Initiative? Find Out If You're Eligible

Are you a grower looking to extend your season and protect your crops with a high tunnel? 

Wondering if you’re eligible for federal support to make it happen? 

The NRCS High Tunnel Initiative offers financial assistance and technical guidance to help farmers and ranchers install high tunnels—but not everyone qualifies.

Who Qualifies for the NRCS High Tunnel Initiative?

Eligibility for the NRCS High Tunnel Initiative depends on several factors, including your farm size, 
crop types, and conservation plan. To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be an agricultural producer—you must be actively engaged in farming or ranching.
  • Have an NRCS-approved conservation plan—this ensures that your high tunnel will support soil, water, and resource conservation goals.
  • Install the high tunnel on eligible land—the location must meet NRCS guidelines for construction and environmental safety.

It’s important to note that NRCS provides both financial assistance for materials and technical guidance to ensure the high tunnel is properly installed and managed for maximum efficiency. Learn more in our latest article. 

Take the Next Step Toward Your High Tunnel

We’re here to help you navigate the NRCS High Tunnel Initiative from start to finish. Whether it’s guidance, advice, or hands-on support to get your NRCS-approved high tunnel installed, we’ll work with you to turn your growing goals into reality. Check out more details on our NRCS page.

Ready to grow smarter, longer, and better? Roll up your sleeves with Nifty Hoops and let’s get your high tunnel up and thriving!

Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Winter High Tunnel Gardening

Are you looking for ways to keep your garden producing even when the Midwest winter sets in? 

Curious how some growers are able to harvest fresh greens and herbs while others’ gardens lie dormant under frost and snow? 

High tunnels are the secret to extending your growing season, protecting crops from harsh weather, and maintaining fresh, nutrient-rich produce throughout winter.

What to Plant in a High Tunnel in Winter

While winter in the Midwest is harsh, high tunnels make it possible to keep producing. Focus on cold-

High tunnels on a large, expansive farm with recently cleared land
hardy crops that thrive in lower light and cooler temperatures.

  • Leafy greens: Spinach (a standout for overwintering), kale, mache
  • Brassicas: Mustard greens, Asian greens (tatsoi, mizuna)
  • Herbs: Parsley and chives can often survive through winter in tunnels

Planting Timeline (Midwest, Winter):

  • November – December: Sow spinach, and baby greens  and mache for harvest in late winterearly spring
  • December – January: Protect existing crops with row covers to maintain growth
  • February – March: Transplant kale, swiss chard, and head lettuces Start cool-weather seedlings inside the tunnel for an early spring harvest
  • April–May: Transplant tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and cucumbers, in the hoophouses under row covers or low tunnels to get an early start on the summer harvest


Learn more about the best times to plant in your high tunnel in our latest article! 


Keep Your Winter Harvest Thriving with a High Tunnel

Don’t let winter slow down your harvest. With the right cold-hardy crops and proper planning, your high tunnel can keep producing fresh, healthy vegetables all season long. If you’re ready to get started, get your high tunnel quote on our website! 

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Fall Planting in a High Tunnel

Are you wondering how to keep your high tunnel productive as summer winds down? 

Curious which crops thrive in cooler temperatures and can withstand the first frost? 

If you’ve been looking for ways to extend your growing season and enjoy fresh produce well into fall, you’re not alone. Midwest growers rely on high tunnels to outsmart unpredictable weather and maximize their harvest, and with the right fall planting plan, you can too.

What to Plant in a High Tunnel in Fall

high tunnel full of fresh vegetables in hanging baskets and on shelves
As summer winds down, it’s time to transition your high tunnel to cool-weather crops. Here are the best
options for Midwest growers:

  • Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, lettuce, Swiss chard
  • Root vegetables: Carrots, beets, radishes, turnips
  • Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, bok choy
  • Herbs: Cilantro, parsley, dill

Planting Timeline (These Fall date-ranges are for lower Michigan - adapt them to your climateMidwest, Fall):

  • Mid-Late August – Early September: Bunching kale, swiss chard, spinach, beets, carrots
  • September – October: Head lettuce, spinach, radishes, turnips, herbs
  • October – November: Direct-seeded baby Cold-hardy greens like lettuce, mizuna, mustard, and kale. (Spinach and kale for overwintering.)


Learn more about crop rotation and best planting timing in our latest article! 


Extend Your Fall Harvest with a High Tunnel: Plan Your Planting Today!

With the right crops and timing, your high tunnel can keep producing fresh, healthy vegetables well into the cooler months. Don’t let the season slip by—plan your fall planting today!

Get your high tunnel quote! 

Monday, September 15, 2025

What to Grow and Where You Grow Matters

Are you trying to figure out which hoop house size will work best for your garden?

Not sure how your climate—or your favorite crops—might influence your setup?

When it comes to choosing a hoop house, there’s more to think about than just dimensions. The types of crops you want to grow and the region you live in both play a huge role in determining the right size and structure.

Let’s walk through how your crop list and local weather conditions should guide your hoop house planning.

What Do You Want to Grow?

The type of crops you plan to grow can significantly impact the size you’ll need. 

  • Tomatoes need about 4 square feet per plant, especially if you're staking or trellising them.
  • Bunching greens like kale or swiss chard prefer to have around 2 square feet per plant.
  • Head vegetables like lettuce or pac choi are compact and only need around a square foot per plant, making them great space-savers.
  • Peppers need about 2 square feet per plant.
  • Cucumbers, especially if you trellis them, need around 2 to 3 square feet per plant.
  • Root vegetables can be tightly planted and work well in smaller beds.

If you plan to grow a mix of crops—or want to leave room for crop rotation and succession planting—consider adding an extra 25–35% more space than the minimum. A little extra room now gives you more flexibility later.

Where Are You Growing? 
Hoop houses built by Nifty Hoops positioned before a sunset

Your local climate will also affect the ideal hoop house size. In colder regions, a larger hoop house helps retain heat, which can be essential for early spring or late fall growing. In warmer zones, you may not need the extra space for heat retention, but you’ll need to prioritize ventilation to keep plants from overheating.

The more you can tailor your hoop house to your local environment, the more successful your growing season will be.


Learn more about planning ahead for your hoop house in our latest article! 


Optimize Your Space by Planning Ahead with a Hoop House

A successful growing season starts with smart planning. By thinking through what you’ll grow, and where, you can choose a hoop house that meets your needs now and gives you room to expand in the future.

Need help matching a hoop house to your crops and climate?

We’d love to help you design a setup that works with your space, goals, and growing conditions.

Let’s bring your garden goals to life—reach out today! 🌱

Monday, September 1, 2025

Thinking About Starting a Hoop House? Here's What You Need to Know First

Are you dreaming of homegrown tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and vibrant peppers just steps from your kitchen?

Curious about how much space you’ll need—or which hoop house size is right for your growing goals?

Starting your hoop house journey is exciting but knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming.

What Are Your Growing Goals? 

Hoop house made in Michigan by Nifty Hoops supporting local farmers
If you're growing food for your family or experimenting with season extension, our 16-foot-wide hoop house is a great entry point. It's ideal for smaller garden plots or backyard spaces but still provides room
for serious production, especially with proper planning and crop rotation.

If you’re looking to grow a wider variety of crops, a 22.5-foot-wide hoop house gives you more space, without being overwhelming. It’s perfect for hobby farmers or those looking to supply friends, family, or a small CSA.

For growers interested in scaling up for market sales, restaurants, or larger community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, our 30-foot-wide models provide the volume and versatility needed to grow efficiently and maximize your harvest. These hoop houses retain heat better than narrower structures, and can support large planting areas, walkways, and multiple growing zones.


Learn more about things to consider when selecting what to grow in your hoop house here! 


Ready to Take the First Step Toward a More Abundant Garden?

Starting your hoop house journey is more than just picking a size—it's about creating a space that supports your goals and lifestyle. With the right setup, you can enjoy a longer growing season, higher yields, and the satisfaction of knowing exactly where your food comes from.

Let’s build something that grows with you.

Friday, August 15, 2025

Soil Prep for a Happy Hoop House

Think your hoop house will guarantee success no matter what’s underneath it? 

Wondering why some farmers see lush harvests while others struggle with unhealthy plants—even inside the same sturdy structure?

The truth is simple: your hoop house is only as good as the soil you build it on. Don’t let poor soil preparation sabotage your investment. By tackling compaction, adding amendments early, and prepping your perimeter, you’ll give your crops the best possible start inside your new hoop house. Here are a few of our tips: 

Nifty Hoops hoop houses
🌾 Loosen it up. If your ground has been compacted by years of foot or vehicle traffic, run a chisel 
plow or subsoiler before building. Your plants’ roots will thank you.

🪴 Add amendments early. It’s infinitely easier to spread compost or soil conditioners before construction begins than after. Once the hoop house is up, you’ll be stuck moving every load by wheelbarrow or tractor bucket.

🔨 Rototill the perimeter. This small but mighty step makes trenching and installing baseboards easier—saving you time and sweat during your build.


Learn more about how to set up your hoop house to thrive in our latest article! 


Ready to Give Your Hoop House the Perfect Foundation? Let’s Get Growing!

Healthy soil is the key to a thriving hoop house—and your plants deserve the best start possible. Contact us today for expert advice on prepping your soil so you can enjoy stronger plants, bigger harvests, and a happier growing season. Let’s build your farm’s future, one bed at a time!

Friday, August 1, 2025

Choosing the Right Site for Your Hoop House

Ever wonder why some hoop houses thrive while others struggle? 

Curious how to pick the perfect spot to maximize sunlight, drainage, and efficiency for your crops?

Selecting the right site is the first—and possibly most important—step to building a successful hoop house. Even the strongest structure won’t reach its potential if it’s set in the wrong place. With smart planning and a few key considerations, you can set yourself up for long-term productivity and healthier harvests.

Farmers standing in front of Nifty Hoops hoop house frame mid build
🌱 Flat ground helps—but don’t stress if your land slopes. A little natural tilt can save you big 
bucks on excavation, but beware: too much side-to-side slope can cause snow to pile up unevenly or not slide off.

🚜 Accessibility is everything. You’ll need room for a truck and trailer to deliver materials—and 15 feet of level, clear space at each end of the hoop house for ladders and safe endwall installation. Trying to work on a cramped or inaccessible site can quickly turn a one-day build into a multi-day slog.

🌞 Soak up that sun! Choose a spot with full sun exposure all year, remembering that winter shadows stretch long. A hoop house tucked next to a tall tree or building might end up dark and chilly just when you need light and warmth the most.


Learn more by checking out our latest article! 


Let’s Pick the Perfect Spot for Your Hoop House Together!

Ready to choose the best site for your hoop house and give your farm the advantage it deserves? Don’t go it alone—reach out today for expert help and let’s make sure your hoop house starts off on the right foot. Together, we can grow stronger, smarter than ever!


Sunday, June 15, 2025

Are Hoop House Kits the Secret to Smarter Farm Economics?

Tired of weather disruptions cutting your growing season short?

A smiling family posing after the installation of their new Nifty Hoops hoop house kit
Curious how other farmers are bringing in consistent yields—despite unpredictable conditions?

If you're looking for a low-risk, high-reward investment, hoop house kits are one of the smartest moves you can make for your farm.

More than just season extenders, these structures are powerful business assets. They provide protection 
from wind, rain, and early frosts, giving your crops the stability they need to thrive. Plus, many growers use them to expand into early spring and late fall markets, adding extra weeks—or even months—of sales to their calendar.

With NRCS grants and cost-share programs available, the financial barrier is lower than ever. And when combined with high-value crops and CSA or other direct-to-consumer sales models, the ROI of hoop house kits can be game-changing.

From revenue stability to year-round market presence, farmers across the country are proving that a well-placed hoop house isn’t an expense—it’s a strategic upgrade.


👉 Get the full story in our latest article.


Hoop House Kits Are a No-Brainer Investment

The numbers don’t lie—hoop house kits help reduce farming risk, increase yields, and open doors to additional income streams through extended seasons and premium crops. Add in grant funding, and it’s easy to see why more growers are calling these kits essential.

Ready to take your farm to the next level?

Turn one smart structure into your farm’s biggest return. Start growing with us today! 

Sunday, June 1, 2025

Is a Hoop House Kit Really Worth It?

Wondering if a hoop house kit is a smart investment for your growing operation?

Have you been watching your neighboring farms bring crops to market earlier—or harvest long after the frost—and asking how they do it?

Here’s the secret: high-quality hoop house kits are delivering serious ROI for farmers across the country. While the upfront cost might give you pause, the long-term payoff tells a different story. 

✅ Extended growing seasons (by weeks or even months)

Interior of a Nifty Hoops Hoop House Kit showcasing crops being grown on shelves and in hanging  baskets
✅ Higher crop yields

✅ Protection from unpredictable weather

✅ Potential access to NRCS cost-share programs

✅ Faster route to market dominance

Many growers are seeing higher returns right away, especially when using their hoop houses for high-value crops like salad greens, berries, or flowers. Add in the potential for grant support, and that initial investment quickly becomes one of your smartest business moves.


👉 Discover the full breakdown in our latest article.


Hoop House Kit Payoff: Smart Farming Starts Here

A hoop house kit isn’t just a structure—it’s a strategic tool to grow your business, quite literally. 

Whether you’re a new farmer looking for season extension or a seasoned grower scaling up your CSA, hoop houses are delivering reliable, measurable returns.

Ready to invest in a stronger, longer season?

Turn one smart structure into your farm’s biggest return. Start growing with us today! 

Thursday, May 15, 2025

How High Tunnels Improve Plant Health

Wondering why some farms seem to grow healthier, hardier plants year after year?

Curious how flowers can thrive even in unpredictable Midwest weather? 

The secret might just be a high tunnel.

By creating a more controlled growing environment, high tunnels offer more than just season extension—they actively contribute to stronger, more resilient plants. Here’s how they help improve plant health and yield:

Improved Plant Health

By controlling the environment, high tunnels reduce disease pressure and pest infestations. This means 


healthier plants and higher-quality yields. Studies have shown that plants grown inside high tunnels experience less disease and produce higher-grade cut flowers!

Want proof? Just check out the vibrant blooms at Delight Flower Farm in Illinois.

Maggie Taylor, the creative force behind the farm, has turned her high tunnels into a haven for lush, top-tier flowers. She’s a builder of community, a mentor, and a total powerhouse in the world of local farming—and we’re proud to have helped her bring that vision to life.


Learn more about expanding your growing season and boosting plan health in our latest article. 


Ready to Grow Healthier Plants with a High Tunnel?

If you're dreaming of stronger stems, fewer pests, and higher-quality crops, a high tunnel could be your best next step. Whether you're growing food, flowers, or both—controlled conditions lead to better results.

Grow with us at Nifty Hoops—and let your plants (and profits) flourish.

Thursday, May 1, 2025

3 Benefits of High Tunnels for Perennials

Thinking about getting more out of your perennials this year?

Curious how to give your shrubs a head start before the weather even decides to cooperate?

A high tunnel might be exactly what your farm needs.

Whether you're growing strawberries, raspberries, or ornamental shrubs, a high tunnel can help you beat the frost, protect your investment, and cultivate healthier, more productive plants from the ground up. Here's how: 

1. Extended Growing Season

Flowers grown inside of a nifty hoops hoop house structure
High tunnels allow for earlier planting in the spring and later harvesting in the fall. This extended 
season means more opportunities for growth and profit. Perennials like strawberries and raspberries have been shown to produce earlier and later in the season when grown in high tunnels.

2. Protection from Weather Extremes

Spring in Michigan and other Mid-Western states can be unpredictable, with late frosts and heavy rains. High tunnels offer a shield against these elements, ensuring your perennials and shrubs are protected during critical growth periods.

3. Enhanced Root Development

The warmer soil temperatures in high tunnels promote faster root development. This is essential for perennials and shrubs, as a strong root system sets the foundation for vigorous growth and resilience.​


Explore more about using high tunnels for early-season planting in our latest article.


Grow Smarter with a High Tunnel

Don’t leave your perennials at the mercy of unpredictable weather or short growing seasons. Whether you’re looking to increase your yield, improve plant health, or simply get a head start on spring, a high tunnel gives your crops the edge they need.

Grow with us at Nifty Hoops—because thriving perennials start with the right protection.

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

What Makes Our Hoop Houses More Durable Than Others

A hoop house is an investment—but is yours built for long-term success? 

Will it stand strong against harsh weather, heavy use, and changing seasons? 

The truth is, not all hoop houses are created equal, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in protecting your crops and maximizing your farm’s productivity. 


High-Quality American-Made Steel for Superior Strength

Hoop House
Our hoop houses are constructed using heavy-duty, galvanized American-made steel parts, ensuring 
longevity and resilience against the elements. The framework is built with Allied GatorShield tubing, the highest-quality American-made steel tube, designed to resist corrosion and maintain structural integrity over time.

Secure and Long-Lasting Plastic Attachment System

Many designs rely solely on wiggle wire for plastic attachment, which can wear out over time. Our system uses heavy-duty aluminum quick-locks at the hipboard, offering a significantly more durable solution for securing overhead plastic.

Reliable Ventilation Systems for Long-Term Performance

Ventilation is an important aspect of any hoop house, and we use long-lasting DC ventilation motors for both curtain and louvered vent systems. These motors are built for reliability and energy-effiency, ensuring consistent airflow to maintain an optimal growing environment season after season.


Learn more about what makes Nifty Hoops durable structures built to last, here. 


Stronger, Smarter, Built to Last Hoop Houses

Durability isn’t just a feature—it’s the foundation of every hoop house we build. With premium materials and expert craftsmanship, Nifty Hoops delivers structures that provide long-term protection and performance.

Fill out our quote form to start growing with us today! 

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Key Features of a Nifty Hoops Hoop House

When it comes to choosing a hoop house, durability and reliability are everything. Will it hold up against strong winds? Can it handle heavy snow loads? Will it protect your crops season after season? 

A well-built hoop house is more than just a shelter—it’s an investment in your farm’s future.


Built to Last: Key Features of Our Hoop Houses

  • Hoop House Structure
    High-Quality American-Made Steel for Superior Strength
  • Stronger, More Reliable Structural Connections11 mil woven plastic covering for Endwall and 
    Side Curtain Material
  • Enhanced Stability with Cross Bracing and Diagonal Supports


Learn why all of this should matter to you when looking for a hoop house in our latest article! 


Why Choosing the Right Hoop House Matters

Not all hoop houses are created equal. A poorly designed structure can lead to costly repairs, crop loss, and frustration. At Nifty Hoops, we believe in building structures that last, using only the best materials and engineering solutions.

If you're serious about investing in a hoop house that will serve you for years to come, don’t settle for anything less than the best. Start growing with Nifty Hoops today! 

Saturday, March 15, 2025

How to Apply for NRCS Hoop House Assistance

Have you ever wished you could extend your growing season without breaking the bank? 

What if there was a way to protect your crops from unpredictable weather while keeping costs low? 

The NRCS Hoop House Assistance Program could be the solution you're looking for!


How to Apply for NRCS Hoop House Assistance

Farmers interested in building a hoop house with NRCS assistance should begin by contacting their local NRCS office. The process typically involves:

  1. NRCS Approved Hoop House
    Eligibility Check: You’ll need to meet certain eligibility criteria, such as being a working farmer 
    or rancher with a defined agricultural operation.
  2. Planning and Design: NRCS staff will assist with planning the hoop house and determining the best design and location for your needs.
  3. Funding Approval: Once your plan is in place, NRCS will assess your application and determine the funding amount you are eligible to receive.
  4. Construction: After receiving approval, you can begin the construction of your hoop house, often with the help of technical assistance from NRCS.


Learn more about the benefits of an NRCS approved hoop house in our latest article. 


Start Growing with an NRCS-Approved Hoop House Today!

Building an NRCS-approved hoop house is one of the best ways to increase farm efficiency and maximize your growing potential. Don’t miss out on the funding and support available through the NRCS Hoop House Assistance Program!

🌱 Ready to take the next step? Contact your local NRCS office to start the application process, and when you're approved, Nifty Hoops is here to help!

Saturday, March 1, 2025

Hoop Houses vs. Green Houses: What's the Difference?

Do you want to maximize crop production while keeping costs low? 

Understanding the differences between these two structures can help you make the right choice for your farm or garden.

Hoop Houses vs. Greenhouses: What's the Difference?

NRCS Approved Hoop House
While both hoop houses and greenhouses serve similar purposes, there are some key differences 
between the two. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Construction: Hoop houses are typically made with steel bows and covered with a flexible polyethylene film. They are usually temporary structures and don't require concrete footings. On the other hand, greenhouses are more permanent, with solid walls made from materials like glass or polycarbonate, and often include a concrete foundation.

Growing Methods: Hoop houses are primarily used for growing plants directly in the ground. Greenhouses, on the other hand, are often designed for growing plants on tables or other elevated surfaces.

Cost and Maintenance: Hoop houses are generally more cost-effective than greenhouses. They require less maintenance and space, making them a practical option for small-scale farmers.


Learn more about the advantages of hoop houses in our latest article! 


Grow Smarter with an NRCS-Approved Hoop House

If you're looking for an affordable way to boost production, protect your crops, and qualify for NRCS funding, an NRCS-approved hoop house might be your best bet! These structures offer flexibility, efficiency, and cost savings—helping you grow more with less hassle.

🌱 Ready to get started? Nifty Hoops specializes in NRCS-approved hoop houses and can guide you through the process from start to finish. 


Saturday, February 15, 2025

Assignment of Payment with Nifty Hoops

Struggling to finance your high tunnel project upfront? 

What if there was a way to ease the financial burden?

We understand that cash flow can be a challenge for many growers. That’s why we offer an Assignment of Payment option for those receiving NRCS funding and opting for a complete install (Community Build or Full Installation).

How Assignment of Payment Works:

Deposit: Growers pay a 30% deposit at the time of signing. 

Cost Assistance: We float a portion of the remaining project cost covered by your NRCS funding. 

Reimbursement: After your structure passes inspection, NRCS funding goes towards your remaining balance.

We can help to cash flow the project cost , making it easier to bring your high tunnel project to life.


NRCS High Tunnel

Learn more about how our team guides you through the NRCS approval process here!  


Ask Us How We Work with NRCS! 

Ready to make your NRCS high tunnel project a reality?

For those receiving NRCs funding, and hiring Nifty Hoops for a complete install, we can set up an Assignment of Payment with NRCS. Our Assignment of Payment option ensures you don’t have to navigate the financial strain alone. 

Contact us  today to learn more about our financing options and how we can guide you through every step of the NRCS process. Let’s build your high tunnel together!

What to Look for in a High Tunnel Inflation Kit (Before You Buy a High Tunnel Kit)

Thinking about investing in a high tunnel kit with a double-layer system?  Not all setups are created equal, and the difference often comes...