Polytunnel Advice...

[nooby]

Hi All!

I have just taken over a large full plot where there was/is an exsiting old 6x3x2m Polytunnel. The frame is in good condition and anchored well (or so it seems). But the cover was shot to pieces so I bought a cheapish green replacement cover which is on and secure.

2 questions, could someone possibly give some advice on?

Firstly, I have dug trenches around and covered and buried the over hang and it all seems fairly secure. I am still concerned about wind though, should I do anything else? I mean if I try and pull the poly it is buried pretty solid. The allotment is surrounded by houses and we are based in Sussex near gatwick, its not high ground.

This next question also relates to the first...

Should I leave the netted window flaps open?? I had them closed after installing it and when I went the other day it was like the rainforest in there! There was condensation dripping off the roof, the ground was soaking when I dug it over in there and it was really humid, and thats in Feb!!! Also Will this help with wind going through the tunnel rather than the sides taking the full brunt or will it encourage wind in and lift the thing up?

Many thanks in advance. Sorry for the NOOBY questions

[nickdub]

keeping the wind out is probably best if you get a gale, as for the ventilation flaps most plants prefer a lot higher humidity level than people do, but it does depend on what you are growing - something like a sauna would suit melons or cucumbers for example.

[veggiechicken]

if you think about what you've done - you've roofed over a piece of wet ground. The air inside has been warmer and the ground is starting to dry out - hence all the condensation. That's my theory anyway!

I'd leave the vents open until you're ready to grow something in there - probably all the time actually.