Light Transmission

Light is crucial to plant productivity. Studies have shown that a 1% reduction in light transmission can lead to a 1% drop in yield.

Light transmission on Haygrove polythene is always greater than 87%. As polythene ages, the UV rays break down the polythene to reduce the light transmission. This is further reduced by dust and algae build-up.

Strength

The thickness relates to the physical strength of the polythene. The choice of thickness is determined by how long it is expected to last and what mechanical pressure it needs to endure. Haygrove supply polythene in thicknesses ranging from 150mu to 200mu.

Thermicity

Thermicity is the efficiency of reflecting infrared light. A thermic film can significantly reduce heat-build in polytunnels during hot days, but also reduces heat escaping the tunnels on cold nights. The result is reduced temperature spikes, creating a more consistent climate for plants.

Diffusion

Diffusion level is the extent of which light scatters as it passes through the polythene. Dispersing the light allows it to penetrate deeper into the crop canopy and reduces shading within the tunnel.

High diffusion film is typically used for summer production where growers want to reduce heat stress and scorching on the plants to optimise yield and fruit size throughout the season.

Low diffusion film is more effective at the start of the season when growers are looking to maximise light levels and earliness.

Layers 

Haygrove films are all 5 or 7 layers. Using layer technology our films maximise individual performance characteristics such as UV transparency, temperature control and anti-fog properties by enabling the precision placement of high-performance polymers and additives within the overall film structure.

Each layer allows additives and other raw materials to be inserted with greater precision to create dedicated film layers for enhanced optic, thermic or strength attributes. This level of control means that the benefits of one feature are not offset by another. It enables the manipulation of a film blend to develop films that are bespoke to specific crops, climates or applications.

Recycling

We’re aware that as an industry we use a lot of polythene, and we are committed to ensuring that all of it gets recycled.

We actively encourage the recycling of tunnel film at the end of its primary lifecycle so that it can continue to add value by being recycled into other useful products such as crop grow bags or compost sacks. Recycling tunnel films ‘closes the loop’. Recycling film in country also cuts shipping emissions which further contributes to a sustainable horticulture industry.

For further details, please contact your local Haygrove representative. 

Shade Net

Shade net is the key component in our ‘Retractable Shade Net’ mechanism, fitted to our polytunnels to provide another lever for the grower to manage the environment and maximise crop production. A mechanised system means it is a quick and simple operation to pull the shade net cover on and off.

Shade nets can be used as an alternative to polythene on tunnel hoop structures to provide a cost-effective shade cover to protect crops. By using polytunnel hoops to support the shade net, the grower has the option to upgrade to polythene in the future should the climate or growing requirements change.

Haygrove also supply flat-top shade net structures. This is a popular choice for blueberries, top and citrus fruits in hotter climates.

Hail Net

In a rapidly changing climate, protection from extreme hail events is becoming increasingly necessary. Haygrove supply 'Flat-Top Hail Net' structures which provide cost effective hail protection.

We also supply hail nets in a range of widths and sizes.

Bird Net

Protect your crop from birds by adding bird net to your Haygrove tunnel structures. Most commonly bird net is used on the ends and the leg row valleys of the polytunnel to prevent birds entering the tunnels.

We supply a range of premium and knotted anti-bird netting, all made from HDPE for UV protection.