BULLETINS
& ARTICLES
Greenhouse
Maintenance
PRESS RELEASE
Winter is fast approaching and greenhouses require
some basic on-going maintenance both inside and out to ensure expected
levels of crop performance. The greenhouse environment with its high
humidity and temperature fluctuations, combined with the use of chemicals,
can be relatively harsh on todays modern greenhouse materials and claddings,
therefore Redpath offers the following guidelines to assist growers who
are about to prepare for the winter:
EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE:
Gutters
Begin with a general inspection of the exterior
of the greenhouse. Inspect sidewalls for damaged cladding, loose framing,
and gaps between base rails and soil. If side ventilation is fitted,
check that the opening mechanisms are lubricated and clear any built-up
dirt or debris.
On multi-bay houses walk along the full length
of each internal gutter and remove any debris which may cause water damming
whilst checking for water-tight seal on gutter joins or corrosion of the
structure. If there is ‘ponding’ in the gutter, this may indicate foundation
settlement, which may require further inspection and repair.
Poly cladding
Inspect the Duratough film cladding for small
holes or tears. Note the date stamp on the film to ascertain its approximate
age and made a commercial decision as to the films viability for another
winter season. Repair any small holes or tears using either Redpaths’ long
life ‘Patchbond’ transfer tape or ‘All Weather’ tapes. Inspect the
Lockstrip or film fastening system for soundness and closely inspect the
condition of the film at its’ clipped edge as this is where the majority
of stress on the film takes place.
Cleaning of the film to maximise light transmission
during dull winter months with Redpath's Duraclean is recommended. Do not
use petroleum based, chlorine base or abrasive cleaning solutions as these
may shorten the life of the greenhouse films U.V. inhibitors.
