High Tunnel Resources

High tunnels, also known as hoop houses, have been a staple in KY agriculture for many years. They differ from greenhouses in that crops are still planted in the ground rather than in pots on a bench and there is no supplemental heating or cooling. Side wall and roof vents are used to help moderate temps that are increased via solar gain. With the growth of the NRCS EQUIP program since 2010, the number of high tunnel structures skyrocketed from fewer than 400 tunnels to over 1200 in 2020 with more being installed every year. These structures can be incredibly valuable to growers in extending the growing season and adding a level of weather protection to high value crops.  

Tomatoes are one of the most popular crops to grow in a high tunnel system due to their relatively high return to land, capital and management. However, almost any can be grown in a high tunnel system that would normally be field grown. When deciding on a crop, growers should take into consideration environmental issues such as increased humidity, potential for salinity build up, and high temperatures. Attention should also be paid to the potential returns, since high tunnel space cost the grower more than field space, a grower wants something high value in there for best returns.  

• No break in work schedule.

• Increased management required (sidewalls, snow, wind).

• Potential for higher disease issues.

• Higher prices on shoulder season crops.

• Overall higher yields and quality. 

• Retain customers and workers longer.