How to Choose the Right Polytunnel for Irish Weather

20/10/2025

Choosing the right polytunnel is one of the best investments you can make for your garden or farm. Ireland's climate can be unpredictable — a mix of wind, rain, and mild temperatures — so picking the right structure and material makes all the difference.

Here's a simple guide to help you select the perfect tunnel for your needs.

Size and Space

Before buying, think about how much space you have and what you plan to grow.

Small tunnels (6–10ft wide): Great for home gardens and vegetable growers.
Medium tunnels (12–18ft wide): Ideal for larger families or small farms.
Large tunnels (20ft+): Best for commercial growing or resale of crops.

💡 Tip: A slightly larger size gives you room to expand later — most people upgrade within a year once they see how well crops grow!

Frame Strength and Shape

Ireland's weather can be windy, especially in coastal or open areas.

Rounded tunnels are excellent for shedding wind.
Geodomes offer superior strength and distribute stress evenly.
Galvanised steel frames resist rust and last longer in wet conditions.

At Polytunnels Ireland, our frames are built to handle tough conditions with extra support and ground anchors.

Polythene Type

Your cover is just as important as your frame. We recommend UV Open Polythene, which allows beneficial light to reach your plants.

Choose from:

600 gauge (basic, 5–7 years lifespan)
800–1000 gauge (premium, 10+ years lifespan)

UV Open Polythene helps improve crop quality — colour, taste, and yield — and includes anti-condensation protection to keep your plants dry and healthy.

Location and Setup

Pick a site that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Avoid shaded or flooded areas. If possible, align your tunnel north-to-south for even sun distribution.

Anchor your tunnel securely — Irish winds can be strong, especially in winter.

Buy from a Trusted Local Supplier

When you buy from an Irish supplier like Polytunnels Ireland, you're guaranteed strong materials suited to our weather, faster delivery, and local after-sales support.

Conclusion

The right polytunnel will protect your plants, extend your growing season, and make your garden more productive.

If you're ready to invest, contact Polytunnels Ireland today for expert advice and the best value on durable, long-lasting tunnels.