Time to prepare for winter storms

Storm damage to greenhouses can include racking of the frame, bending of the hoops, broken glass or torn plastic and uplifted foundation posts. Univ. of Conn. extension professor emeritus and ag engineer John Bartok said although growers don’t have control over the force or direction of severe winds, they can minimize storm damage.
* Check the area for loose objects. Anything that can be picked up and hurled through the glazing should be secured or moved indoors. Metal chimney (stove pipe) sections should be secured with sheet metal screws.
* Look for dry or weak tree limbs that could fall on the greenhouse.
* Close all openings including vents, louvers and doors. The wind on the outside puts a pressure or lifting force on the structure. The wind inside tries to force the walls and roof off.
* On air inflated greenhouses, increase the inflation pressure slightly by opening the blower’s intake valve. This reduces the rippling effect. Make sure the plastic is attached securely and that holes are taped.
* Disconnect the arm to the motor on all ventilation intake shutters and tape the shutters closed. Then turn on enough exhaust fans to create a vacuum in the greenhouse. This action sucks the plastic tight against the frame.
* Windbreaks can reduce the wind speed and deflect it over the greenhouse. Conifer trees in a double row located at least 50 feet upwind from the greenhouse can reduce the wind’s damaging effects. Wood or plastic storm fencing can be used as a temporary windbreak.

Pictured: As winter approaches now is a good time to take steps to minimize greenhouse damage due to severe winds.
Photo by A.J. Both, Rutgers University