Polytunnel internal layout

[SteveA]

We've just started doing the ground works for our polytunnel and I'm fine tuning the internal design layout for raised beds and paths.

 

Here's where we're at:

 

The tunnel is 5.8m width (about 19ft) and 55ft length.

 

- central path to run the entire length of the tunnel. This will be made from bricks. The centre path is 80cm width

 

- all other paths between raised beds to be 60cm width

 

- the narrow raised beds to be 60cm width x 240cm length x 30cm height

 

- the wider raised beds to be 120cm width x 240cm length x 30cm height (these beds will be accessible from all sides).

 

- small wildlife pond for frogs and toads, somewhere central in the tunnel. This should also help to raise humidity slightly.

 

That's where we're at for now....

 

If anyone has any interior design top tips, or photos to share I'm all eyes and ears.

 

cheers, steve

 

[cornish wood burner]

If you havn't already done it lay a water pipe to the centre of the tunnel so you can have a tap there.

[SteveA]

If you havn't already done it lay a water pipe to the centre of the tunnel so you can have a tap there.

 

Good call. Although we don't have any mains water so would need to be gravity fed. cheers, steve

[18 stoner]

Only criticism I can see is with all them raised beds and stuff around I'm not sure where you're going to stack the logs.

[slim reaper]

wouldnt the water get too warm for native wildlife?

[SteveA]

Only criticism I can see is with all them raised beds and stuff around I'm not sure where you're going to stack the logs.

 

Haha! Nice one.

I have thought about doing a cordwood path, if that counts?

cheers, steve

[SteveA]

wouldnt the water get too warm for native wildlife?

 

No, frogs and toads love the warmth and humidity of polytunnels. We'll also be popping some plants with big leaves around the pond and creating a cave for toads.

 

Its a great way of dealing with slugs in tunnels.

 

cheers, steve

[cornish wood burner]

What vents have you planned

Have you straight sides, if so there are some neat roll up systems

[SteveA]

What vents have you planned

Have you straight sides, if so there are some neat roll up systems

 

It'll have green vented mesh on both sides and big doors at both ends of the tunnel.

 

I do like the roll up systems but it's a bit of a faff to fit and more expense.

cheers, steve

[renewablejohn]

Sounds like a recipe for disaster but then what do I know I only grow commercially.