Supporting local growers since 1994

Request a Quote

Production High Tunnel

All Greenhouses

A Proven Technology for Crop Production

High Tunnels are an increasingly popular trend for growers and a proven technology for crop production. The term “high tunnel” is a loosely defined phrase for growing fruits and vegetables in greenhouses, although some high tunnels are used for cut flower production. The difference between a High Tunnel and a regular free-standing greenhouse is that high tunnels use Eastpoint, Northpoint and Nor Easter frames, with longer ground posts, to make them “high” tunnels.

High tunnels may be used to extend the growing season by providing protection for early or late season production, or they may be used for year-round growing. High tunnels are becoming increasingly popular due to the low start-up cost and quick rate of return on investment.

The NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) offers financial and technical assistance to some producers for use on high tunnel integration. To learn more about the program and see if you may qualify, visit this short post about the NRCS High Tunnel Initiative.

"High tunnels" were originally greenhouses with high sidewalls to enable tractors and tillers to easily enter and exit greenhouses from either end. These greenhouses were simple in design, with usually just one layer of poly, roll-up curtains and no electricity. Some of these greenhouses only had poly on them for a few weeks before the warmer weather allowed the cover to be removed safely without any damage to the crops. High tunnel greenhouses enabled local growers to produce crops during all four seasons and helped combat the forces of unpredictable weather, particularly in the early spring.

Today’s high tunnels may be as simple as a greenhouse frame with one layer of poly and roll-up curtains, or a more sophisticated greenhouse that is “moveable” and has roof vents, year-round covering, an irrigation system and heat. These freestanding greenhouses are available in all different widths and lengths. The most common use of a high tunnel is for tomato production, and is usually a 30’ x 96’ greenhouse; however, many other crops are being grown in greenhouses, including cucumbers, lettuce, strawberries, raspberries and herbs. Recognizing this trend in growing, seed companies have began to specialize in offering greenhouse-grown seed varieties and other unique varieties for heirloom and organic growing. High tunnels are all customized to meet the individual grower’s needs and are specific to the crop that is being produced.

The high tunnel concept will continue to gain popularity among growers due to the global need for food and the unpredictable weather patterns that farmers encounter. With the potential to increase cash flow out of season and open up new markets, high tunnels will create many opportunities for the family farm. Further information regarding the specifics of high tunnels can be found on State University websites and by speaking with other growers.

Features & Benefits
  • All high tunnels are designed for heavy snow and wind loads with extra support for crops
  • All greenhouses are pre-drilled, pre-cut, include all hardware and assemble very easily
  • Includes complete instructions
  • Many different options available for cooling, doors and end wall design
  • Crop support systems available
  • Quick turnaround on shipping

Rimol’s Production High Tunnel Packages

  • Basic
  • Standard
  • Upgraded
Basic Standard Upgraded
All frame work with taller ground posts resulting in 6 ft. high side walls All frame work with taller ground posts resulting in 6 ft. high side walls All frame work with taller ground posts resulting in 6 ft. high side walls
Double wire lock for roll-up sides & wire lock for end wall poly Double wire lock for roll-up sides & gable wire lock for end wall poly Double wire lock for roll-up sides & gable wire lock for end wall polycarbonate
Roll-up side wall packages Roll-up side wall packages Roll-up side wall packages
2x4 end wall framing brackets to easily assemble your end wall framing with 2x4 lumber Steel end wall framing kits for both ends of the greenhouse avoiding framing your end walls with 2x4 lumber Steel end wall framing kits for both ends of the greenhouse avoiding framing your end walls with 2x4 lumber
Single layer of poly for both roof and end walls Two layers poly for the roof with an inflation kit Two layers poly for the roof with an inflation kit
T-handle kit for roll-up sides Gear box operators for roll-up sides & wind panel kits for the four corners Motorized roll-up sides & wind panel kits for the four corners
  Woven, re-enforced poly for the end wall covering Polycarbonate for the end walls with including all extrusions and hardware
  A high wind kit for extra rigidity A high wind kit for extra rigidity
  Manually gable peak shutters Motorized gable peak shutters
    An environmental controller to thermostatically operate the motorized roll-up sides and gable peak shutters

Build Your Greenhouse

Request Quote Buy Online
leasing.png

Finance Options Available

Apply Today

Production High Tunnel FAQ's

What do I do if I have rocky ground?

Several things can be done to alleviate poor ground conditions. You can auger out holes or dig a trench, and back fill them with stone dust. If you have just a few trouble spots, you can cut the post, and concrete around the post for additional bracing. Or, if none of the above work, you can choose another site.

How much does it cost to extend my ground posts so that I can get additional height?

The cost is about $10 per ground post to raise the greenhouse an additional 2 ft. in height and about $18 per ground post to raise the greenhouse an additional 4 ft. in height. Since we are a manufacturer we are flexible and can raise the height anywhere between 1 ft. and 4 ft. This price also takes into account the additional hardware you will need with the extra height.

What is involved in the construction when I get extended ground posts?

As we increase height, we also increase depth. Therefore, you will have to go deeper with your posts. This stability is very important when maintaining snow loads and wind loads. You will also be required to use larger sized poly.

What do I do if I am in an excessively windy area?

We include a wind bracing kit which provides diagonal bracing on all four corners of the greenhouse for extra rigidity. Additional wind bracing can be added if necessary.

Do purlins add strength to the greenhouse?

No, they only help with wind load.

Are these taxable structures, and do I need a building permit?

In most states this type of structure is considered a temporary greenhouse and is non-taxable. However, you need to check with your local authorities or trade associations to see if you are exempt from taxation with this type of structure. Most towns are lenient with building permits due to the fact that these greenhouses are considered an agricultural accessory. However, check with local authorities about permits. Even though you may not need a building permit, you may need other permits for electrical or plumbing.

How much space should I allow in between greenhouses?

You should allow 10 to 12 feet in between greenhouses for the collection and removal of snow. It also helps to have the space for recovering a greenhouse if you bring the plastic from one side over to the other.

What are some of the red flags in site selection?

Terraced land is always dangerous for snow build-up. Snow can tend to collect on one side and not build up on another side, and possibly lead to failure. Terraced land also can result in serious drainage problems. Building within 20 feet of a tall building such as a barn can also lead to drifting snow or ice chunks ripping the plastic. Building near the tree line can result in damage to poly and reduce light levels significantly. Use common sense in site selection.

Can I inflate roll-up sides/curtains?

Yes, by simply using a jumper tube, you can inflate your roll-up sides. However, usually the poly is tight and since you have little heat loss through your sides, most people opt not to inflate roll-up sides.

Do I need a roof vent for natural ventilation or will roll-up sides be enough?

Roof vents definitely enhance ventilation, however, roll-up sides usually are adequate for ventilation. Shade cloth can be used to also help cool a greenhouse with roll-up sides. You can also add a small gable fan and shutter for some winter cooling if you do not want to roll up the sides during the cooler months.