In this article, we’ve researched and tested the best greenhouse plastic that offers a combination of durability, insulation, and light transmission. Our top pick is the Yowlieu 12′ x 25′ Clear Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting.
Greenhouses are an excellent way to extend your growing season and provide your plants with the ideal growing environment. However, to get the most out of your greenhouse, you need to choose the right materials.
One of the most critical components of any greenhouse is the plastic covering that protects your plants from the elements. The right greenhouse plastic can make all the difference, providing the ideal balance of light, temperature, and humidity to promote healthy growth.
When shopping for greenhouse plastic, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is the thickness of the material.
Thicker plastic will provide better insulation and durability, but it may also be more expensive. You’ll also need to consider the transparency of the plastic, as well as any UV protection it provides.
Another factor to consider is the type of plastic. There are several different types available, each with its own unique properties. For example, some plastics are designed to provide extra insulation, while others are more durable and long-lasting.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, our guide will help you choose the perfect greenhouse plastic for your needs.
Best Greenhouse Plastic
When it comes to greenhouse gardening, selecting the right plastic is crucial to ensure optimal plant growth and protection. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs.
This article provides a roundup of the top greenhouse plastics on Amazon, based on customer reviews and expert recommendations. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this list will help you find the perfect plastic to keep your plants thriving.
1. Yowlieu 12′ x 25′ Clear Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting
If you’re looking for high-quality greenhouse plastic sheeting, the Yowlieu 12′ x 25′ Clear Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting is a great choice.
With its superior strength and toughness, UV protection, and anti-drip treatment, this greenhouse film is perfect for creating an optimal greenhouse environment and stable growth environment for your plants.
Pros
- Made from premium polyethylene, which is tear-resistant and offers superior strength and toughness for long-term use.
- Higher light transmission allows light to be distributed evenly throughout the greenhouse, creating an optimal growing environment for your plants.
- Anti-drip and UV-resistant treatment prevents the formation of damaging drips inside your greenhouse and protects the plastic film from UV rays, ensuring long-term use.
Cons
- The plastic is very wrinkled after unfolding and has a cloudy film all over it that is hard to remove.
- It appears to be 4 mils in thickness, not 6 mils.
- The plastic cover is not very pliable and can be difficult to work with.
This greenhouse plastic sheeting is 12 feet in width and 25 feet in length, and it can be cut to your preferred size.
It’s easy to install and can be used for covering grow tunnels, hoop grow houses, mini-greenhouses, vegetable and crop patches, and more. Additionally, it’s perfect for protection against UV rays and keeping warm in cold temperatures.
In summary, if you’re looking for a high-quality greenhouse plastic sheeting that offers superior strength and toughness, UV protection, and anti-drip treatment, the Yowlieu 12′ x 25′ Clear Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting is a great choice.
2. Chicarry Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting
This 6 mil Clear Greenhouse Film from Chicarry is a solid choice for anyone looking to protect their plants from UV radiation, extreme heat, heavy rain, frost, cold weather, and strong winds.
Pros
- The 5-Layer Co-Extrusion technology provides high mechanical strength and flexibility, ensuring that the plastic film is durable and tear-resistant.
- The high-quality polyethylene material has a thickness of 6 mils, making it UV-resistant and long-lasting.
- The film is designed to evenly distribute sunlight throughout the greenhouse, keeping it warm even in cold weather, which allows you to produce more crops and harvest them earlier.
Cons
- The surface of the plastic sheeting has a hydrophobic layer that eliminates water droplets and forms a continuous thin layer of water, making the film a little hazy and not very clear.
- The Chicarry Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting is primarily designed for greenhouse use, so it may not be the best option for those looking for a multi-purpose plastic sheeting.
- The package size is relatively small, so it may not be enough to cover larger greenhouses.
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable greenhouse plastic, Chicarry’s 6 mil Clear Greenhouse Film is a great option.
The high-quality polyethylene material ensures that the plastic film is UV resistant and long-lasting, while the 5-Layer Co-Extrusion technology provides high mechanical strength and flexibility.
Additionally, the film is designed to evenly distribute sunlight throughout the greenhouse, keeping it warm even in cold weather, which allows you to produce more crops and harvest them earlier.
However, the surface of the plastic sheeting has a hydrophobic layer that eliminates water droplets and forms a continuous thin layer of water, making the film a little hazy and not very clear (also be sure to check out our article on the best water garden ideas).
Additionally, the Chicarry Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting is primarily designed for greenhouse use, so it may not be the best option for those looking for multi-purpose plastic sheeting.
Finally, the package size is relatively small, so it may not be enough to cover larger greenhouses.
Overall, Chicarry’s 6 mil Clear Greenhouse Film is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and durable plastic film to protect their plants from UV radiation, extreme heat, heavy rain, frost, cold weather, and strong winds.
3. GRELWT Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable greenhouse plastic, the GRELWT Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting is a great choice.
Pros
- The 5-layer technology provides high mechanical strength and flexibility, making it resistant to harsh weather conditions.
- With a high 90% light transmittance, it allows your plants to thrive.
- The anti-drip feature prevents water droplets from landing on the plants, which can cause burning and stunted growth.
Cons
- The agricultural film may not be very clear, or even a little hazy.
- The plastic may sweat, even though it is advertised as anti-drip.
- It may not be as tear-proof as advertised.
This greenhouse plastic is designed to last for four years and is perfect for covering your grow tunnel, yard mini greenhouse, or garden for vegetables, flowers, fruits, herbs, or more. It is easy to install and provides a protective barrier for your plants.
The 5-layer technology provides high mechanical strength and flexibility, making it resistant to harsh weather conditions.
With a high 90% light transmittance, it allows your plants to thrive by providing them with the necessary amount of light. The anti-drip feature prevents water droplets from landing on the plants, which can cause burning and stunted growth.
However, the agricultural film may not be very clear, or even a little hazy, which may reduce the amount of light that reaches your plants.
Additionally, the plastic may sweat, even though it is advertised as anti-drip, which can cause excess moisture and lead to pests and disease. Lastly, it may not be as tear-proof as advertised, so be careful when handling it.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and durable greenhouse plastic that provides high light transmittance and anti-drip features, the GRELWT Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting is a great choice.
4. 6 Mil Clear Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting
If you are looking for durable and UV-resistant greenhouse plastic sheeting, the 6-Mil Clear Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting by warmfarm is a great option.
Pros
- The plastic sheeting is heavy-duty and tear-resistant, making it tough and durable.
- It allows optimal light transmission for even temperature distribution and optimal plant growth.
- It is versatile and can be used for various applications.
Cons
- It is only 6.5 feet wide, which may not be enough for larger greenhouse projects.
- Some users reported that it may not be as transparent as advertised.
- It may require additional support to prevent sagging.
This greenhouse plastic covering is made of high-quality flexible polyethylene, ensuring that it can withstand extreme weather conditions. It is 6 mil thick and provides excellent UV protection, which is essential to protect your plants from harmful rays.
One of the best things about this plastic sheeting is that it allows optimal light transmission, which is crucial for plant growth. It distributes light evenly throughout the greenhouse, ensuring that all plants receive the same amount of light.
Aside from its use as a greenhouse cover, this plastic sheeting is also versatile and can be used for other applications such as a protective cover for clothes or garden landscape.
Overall, the 6-Mil Clear Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting by warmfarm is a great option for those looking for a durable and versatile greenhouse plastic sheeting.
5. Inslat 6 mil Greenhouse Plastic Film Sheeting
If you’re looking for a durable and versatile greenhouse plastic, the Inslat 6 mil Greenhouse Plastic Film Sheeting Cover is a great option.
Pros
- The 6-mil thickness of the polyethylene plastic provides superior strength and toughness, making it tear-resistant and long-lasting.
- The greenhouse plastic allows for optimum light transmission, which helps to disperse light and create a consistent temperature throughout the structure, resulting in even lighting for all areas inside the greenhouse and optimal crop growth.
- The greenhouse film is designed with anti-aging and anti-drip treatments, which prevent the formation of damaging drips inside your greenhouse and reduce the absorption of dust for optimum plant growth.
Cons
- The plastic film may be difficult to install for those who are not experienced with greenhouse construction.
- The 10′ x 26′ size may not be suitable for larger greenhouses or structures.
- The plastic film may not be as clear as other greenhouse plastics, which could affect the amount of light that reaches your plants.
The Inslat 6 mil Greenhouse Plastic Film Sheeting Cover is a premium greenhouse cover that is designed to withstand various weather conditions, including extreme heat, heavy rain, freeze frost, cold winter, and strong winds.
It can also be used to cover grow tunnels, mini-greenhouses, vegetable and flower patches, and even furniture and electrical appliances to prevent dust.
The greenhouse plastic is made of flexible polyethylene, which creates an optimum greenhouse environment for your plants. It is also 4-year UV resistant, ensuring that it will last for a long time.
Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and versatile greenhouse plastic that can withstand various weather conditions and provide optimum light transmission for your plants, the Inslat 6 mil Greenhouse Plastic Film Sheeting Cover is a great option.
You might also be interested in checking out our guide on the best rooftop garden ideas.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best greenhouse plastic, there are several features to consider. These features include thickness, durability, light transmission, UV protection, and cost.
Thickness
The thickness of the plastic is an important factor to consider when selecting a greenhouse covering.
Thicker plastic is generally more durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, thicker plastic may also be more expensive. It is important to find a balance between thickness and cost.
Durability
Durability is another important factor to consider when choosing a greenhouse plastic. The plastic should be able to withstand extreme temperatures and resist tearing and puncturing.
Look for plastic that is specifically designed for greenhouse use and has been tested for durability.
Light Transmission
Light transmission is an important factor to consider when selecting a greenhouse plastic. The plastic should allow enough light to enter the greenhouse to promote plant growth, while also providing some shade to prevent overheating.
Look for plastic that has a high light transmission rate, but also provides some shading.
UV Protection
UV protection is important to prevent the plastic from breaking down and becoming brittle over time. Look for plastic that has been treated with UV inhibitors to prolong its lifespan.
Cost
Cost is always a factor to consider when choosing a greenhouse plastic. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, it is important to consider the long-term cost and durability of the plastic. Look for a plastic that is both affordable and durable.
In summary, when choosing the best greenhouse plastic, consider the thickness, durability, light transmission, UV protection, and cost. Finding a balance between these factors will result in a greenhouse covering that is both effective and affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of using polycarbonate over polyethylene for greenhouse coverings?
Polycarbonate is a more durable and long-lasting material than polyethylene. It is also more resistant to damage from UV rays and extreme weather conditions.
Polycarbonate also has better insulation properties than polyethylene, which can help maintain a more consistent temperature inside the greenhouse.
How does the thickness of greenhouse plastic affect its durability and insulation properties?
Thicker plastic is generally more durable and provides better insulation than thinner plastic. However, thicker plastic can also be more expensive and less flexible, which can make it more difficult to install.
It is important to find the right balance between thickness and flexibility to ensure the plastic can withstand weather conditions and maintain a consistent temperature inside the greenhouse.
What are the benefits of using opaque plastic for greenhouses compared to clear plastic?
Opaque plastic provides better insulation and helps to diffuse sunlight, which can prevent plants from getting too hot and reduce the risk of sunburn. Opaque plastic also provides better privacy and can help to reduce the risk of theft or vandalism.
Can you explain the differences between PVC and polycarbonate materials for greenhouses?
PVC is a less expensive material than polycarbonate, but it is also less durable and has poorer insulation properties.
Polycarbonate, on the other hand, is more expensive but is also more durable and provides better insulation. Polycarbonate is also more resistant to UV rays and extreme weather conditions than PVC.
What should be considered when purchasing a greenhouse plastic roll?
When purchasing a greenhouse plastic roll, it is important to consider factors such as thickness, durability, flexibility, and UV resistance.
It is also important to consider the size of the greenhouse and the type of plants that will be grown inside, as this can impact the amount of sunlight and temperature control needed.
How do greenhouse plastic materials impact plant growth and light transmission?
Greenhouse plastic materials can impact plant growth and light transmission by affecting the amount and quality of light that enters the greenhouse. Clear plastic allows more light to enter the greenhouse, which can be beneficial for some plants.
Opaque plastic, on the other hand, can help to diffuse light and prevent plants from getting too hot. The thickness and quality of the plastic can also impact the amount and quality of light that enters the greenhouse, which can affect plant growth and health.