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

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.

Saturday, November 1, 2025

Prepping Your Gothic Hoop House for Winter

 Is your gothic hoop house ready for winter?

Want your crops to thrive even when temperatures drop? Preparing your high tunnel before winter hits is essential to ensure long-term durability and productivity.

A well-maintained gothic hoop house can withstand heavy snow, retain heat efficiently, and keep your crops growing through the coldest months. Taking time now to clean, tighten, and inspect your setup will prevent costly midwinter repairs and ensure a strong start to the next season.

Inside of a Nifty Hoops hoop house during sunset
Step 1: Clean Your Gothic Hoop House Inside and Out

Start by removing any plant debris, old roots, and weeds—especially cold-weather weeds like chickweed that can be difficult to eliminate later. Debris can harbor pests and fungal pathogens such as 
downy mildew.

Wash the interior walls, benches, and walkways with a gentle disinfectant to eliminate algae and mildew buildup. Clean off any dust or residue on the inside of your plastic, and scrub away mildew from side curtains. Clear plastic allows more sunlight to penetrate—crucial for healthy plants when daylight hours are shorter and the sun sits lower in the sky.

Step 2: Inspect the Frame and Connections

Your gothic hoop house’s peaked design helps snow slide off, but only if your structure is solid. Walk the length of your tunnel and check every nut, bolt, and connector. Tighten anything loose and repair or replace damaged components now—before snow and ice make repairs difficult. Reinforcing your frame today prevents costly downtime later.

Step 3: Examine and Maintain the Cover

Inspect your greenhouse film for holes, tears, or worn spots. Clean the area around any damage, dry it thoroughly (a hair dryer helps!), and patch it using high-quality greenhouse repair tape. If you use double poly layers, make sure your inflation system is running smoothly to maintain insulation. Keep the cover tight—sagging or flapping plastic can reduce light transmission and lead to heat loss.


Learn more about taking care of your hoop house this winter in our latest article


🌱 Keep Your Gothic Hoop House Winter-Ready

 A few hours of preparation now means a stronger, more efficient structure all winter long. Regular cleaning, tightening, and maintenance protect your investment and your crops.

Contact our team today for expert advice, materials, and supplies to keep your gothic hoop house in peak condition all season long!

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! 

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! 🌱

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!


Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Looking to Expand Your Farming Operations?

Ready to scale up your growing capacity with a structure that works as hard as you do?

Whether you're expanding into new crops, extending your season, or upgrading from smaller tunnels, this large polytunnel delivers performance and protection—no matter the weather.

Nifty Hoops helps families like yours select the best polytunnel for your farm!
🚜 30’ Wide –  For High-Volume Production and Maximum Versatility

Best for: Large farms, wholesale producers, and year-round growers who need strength, efficiency, and 
adaptability.

The 30-foot-wide gothic high tunnel is our flagship structure, built for serious growers who need a rugged, walkable, and accessible system that supports intensive crop production.

These structures can range from 36’ to 192’ in length and are packed with professional-grade features that make farming easier and more productive—especially in northern climates.

Want to see one of our 30’ wide polytunnels built in just a day? Watch our full step-by-step build videos to see exactly how efficient and streamlined our process is.


Learn more about our other polytunnel options in our latest article


🌱 Choosing the Right Polytunnel for Your Farm’s Future

If you're serious about expanding your growing operation, a 30’ wide polytunnel offers the space, strength, and flexibility you need to increase yields and protect your crops year-round.

Still weighing your options? We offer a full range of polytunnel kits designed for everything from backyard gardens to full-scale farms.

Contact our expert team today for a custom quote, support with your design, or to explore more solutions built for every scale of farming.

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Is a 16' Wide Hoop House Right for Your Needs?

Wondering how to grow more year-round without breaking the bank or taking up too much space?

If you're looking for a greenhouse solution that balances strength, efficiency, and affordability, our 16’ wide hoop house might be exactly what you need. Whether you're a passionate homesteader, a first-time grower, or a seasoned small-scale farmer, this compact structure offers big performance in a small footprint.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this size so popular—and how it can support your growing goals through every season.

🌿 16’ Wide – Compact, Durable, and Perfect for Small Plots or Backyard Growing

A Built Nifty Hoops Polytunnel
Best for: Small farms, homesteaders, and gardeners looking to extend their growing season with a high-quality, easy-to-install hoop house.

Our 16-foot-wide polytunnel packs all the strength and durability of our larger tunnels into a smaller 
footprint—ideal for backyard spaces or small plots. It’s designed to withstand northern winters while giving you maximum growing space and protection through the coldest months.

 Standard Features Include:

  • US galvanized steel ground posts, bows, purlins, and wind braces with an easy bolt-together design
  • Durable 6-mil, 4-year IRAC polyethylene double-layer cover
  • Heavy-duty double-gusseted truss cross-brace package on every bow
  • Wind bracing with 4 or 8 diagonal braces, depending on structure length


Learn more about our other versatile polytunnel options in our latest article! 


🌱 Explore More Hoop House Options for Every Grower

If a 16’ wide hoop house sounds like a great fit for your space and budget, we’d love to help you get started with your own polytunnel. But if you’re still weighing your options, be sure to explore our full lineup of high tunnels—designed for farms of all sizes and growing goals.

Ready to grow more, earlier, and longer?

Contact our friendly team today for expert guidance and a personalized quote.

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 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, 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!

Saturday, February 1, 2025

Key Steps to Qualify for NRCS Funding

Are you ready to make the next step on your farm with a high tunnel, but not sure how to fund your project? NRCS funding might be available for you! 

To take advantage of the EQIP program for NRCS approved high tunnels, there are specific requirements you’ll need to meet:

  • Land Farming History: You must show that you’ve farmed the land for at least one year.
  • Farmer ID: A valid farmer ID is required.
  • Application Process: Work with your local NRCS representative to complete the application and review the full list of requirements.
  • Approval Timeline: Keep in mind that applications can take up to a year for approval, and not all are selected.

Maximizing Your NRCS Funding

Our team is here to help you maximize your funding and minimize out-of-pocket costs. We’ll guide you in selecting the best size and shape of high tunnel for your site, ensuring compliance with NRCS requirements. 


Learn more about the NRCS EQIP program in our latest article


Make Your NRCS High Tunnel Project a Reality 

Securing funding through the NRCS EQIP program can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding the key qualifications and working with a knowledgeable partner, you can streamline the process and get the support you need to bring your high tunnel project to life.

Contact us today for expert guidance on NRCS requirements, high tunnel design, and maximizing your funding. Let’s build your farm’s future together!

NRCS High Tunnel


Wednesday, January 15, 2025

The Problem: Our Fragile National Food System and the Solution

Have you ever wondered where the food in your grocery store comes from? 

What happens if the region responsible for most of our winter produce faces a crisis?

Did you know that over two-thirds of the produce Americans consume in winter comes from the Imperial Valley of California? This single small valley, located at the end of the Colorado River, supplies much of the nation’s winter produce.

This reliance on one region introduces:

  • High transportation costs that drive up food prices.
  • Resource strain from long-distance shipping.
  • Increased risk to our food supply due to drought, labor shortages, and other challenges.

It’s clear: our food system needs a transformation.

The Solution: Hoop Houses

Hoop houses, also called high tunnels, are semi-permanent structures made of a steel frame and a clear 

Hoop House Kits
covering. They create a controlled environment for growing crops, extending the growing season and protecting plants from harsh weather.

Hoop Houses:

  • Reduce the need for long-haul transportation, lowering costs.
  • Decrease impact from transportation.
  • Utilize resources more effectively compared to traditional open-field farming.
  • And so much more! 


Learn more about the benefits of hoop houses in our latest article


Building Resilience with a Hoop House Kit

A hoop house kit isn’t just an investment in farming—it’s a solution to our fragile food system. By growing fresh, local produce year-round, you can reduce reliance on distant food sources, lower costs, and strengthen local food security.

Ready to take the first step? Contact our team to learn how to get started! 

Sunday, December 15, 2024

The Golden Standards for High Tunnels

Are you worried about how your high tunnel will hold up during heavy snowfalls?

Or maybe you're concerned about strong winds damaging your structure over time?

Choosing the right high tunnel for your farm isn’t just about covering crops—it’s about building something reliable that will last. 


The Gothic Frame: Ideal for Snowy Climates

High Tunnel Kit
If your farm is located in an area that gets heavy snow, you’re going to love our Gothic frame design. 


This shape isn’t just about aesthetics—the pointed arch of the frame is a practical solution for snow-heavy regions. Snow tends to slide off the Gothic frame, reducing the risk of damage due to snow buildup.

Why 4' On-Center Bow Spacing is the Gold Standard

We’ve worked on enough high tunnels to know that bow spacing can make or break the structure. Wider bow spacing might be tempting because it cuts down on the number of bows needed, but we’ve seen firsthand how it can lead to disasters during severe weather events. Even in milder climates, too much space between bows weakens the structure over time.

Trusses and Cross Braces: Critical for Stability and Versatility

For farms in areas with high wind or snow loads, we recommend adding trusses and cross braces to your high tunnel. These components serve as the internal support system, helping to distribute the weight of snow and wind evenly across the structure. Not only do they provide critical stability, but they also make your high tunnel more versatile by offering support for trellised crops like tomatoes or cucumbers.


Learn how YOU can choose the perfect high tunnel for your farm in our latest article


The Smart Choice for Stability: Explore Our High Tunnel Kits

Whether you're facing heavy snow or high winds, these standards provide the strength and versatility your crops need to thrive year-round. 

Ready to invest in a high tunnel kit that offers long-lasting stability and peace of mind? Explore our range of high tunnel kits and discover the perfect fit for your farm today!

Sunday, December 1, 2024

Why We Choose Bolt-Together Assemblies

Have you ever worried about your high tunnel coming loose in harsh weather? 

Notice other structures weakening over time and want to avoid that for your own?

When it comes to ensuring the long-term stability of your high tunnel, the way it's assembled plays a crucial role. 


Why We Choose Bolt-Together Assemblies

When it comes to how your high tunnel is assembled, bolt-together systems have a clear edge over 
strap-together alternatives. We’ve chosen to go with bolt-together assemblies for several reasons:

They don’t slip: Once bolted together, our assemblies stay secure. You don’t have to worry about things loosening over time, which can happen with straps and clamps.

They’re stronger: A bolted connection is simply more durable, especially in rough weather conditions. This added strength gives you peace of mind that your tunnel will hold up when it matters most.


Learn how YOU can choose the perfect high tunnel for your farm in our latest article!

High Tunnel Kit

Secure Your Farm's Future with a Bolt-Together High Tunnel

Ready to build a stronger, more reliable high tunnel for your farm? 

By choosing a bolt-together high tunnel kit, you’re investing in a structure designed for long-lasting durability and strength. Whether you’re dealing with harsh weather or just want peace of mind knowing your high tunnel will stay secure, a bolted assembly ensures your tunnel will stand the test of time. 

Explore our high tunnel kits and learn how you can make the best choice for your growing needs! Reach out today to learn more.

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