Tarpaulin, often called tarps, is a tough, flexible, and weather-resistant material that is made from either plastic or woven polyester fabrics. The plastic and fabric constructions make Clear Tarpaulin waterproof, windproof, and help prevent gardens from being damaged by excess sun, rain, or freezing temperatures.
How Does it Protect Gardens?
Waterproofing
Tarpaulin is completely waterproof, meaning it prevents rainfall, snow, overhead irrigation, or other sources of water from reaching plants. This shields foliage and roots from drowning or rotting.
Wind protection
The thick, flexible material of tarpaulin resists bending and tearing even in strong winds. It anchors plants down securely so they don’t get ripped out or damaged by wind gusts and storms.
Insulation
Tarpaulin creates a barrier that helps maintain a stable, protected microclimate beneath it. It reduces fluctuations in temperature, blocking wind chills while also preventing too much sun from drying out soil or scorching plants.
Benefits of Using Tarpaulin Covers in the Garden
There are several key advantages to using tarpaulin covers in the garden:
Weather protection
As discussed earlier, the Tarpaulin Sheet performs excellently at blocking rain, wind, sunlight, or changes in temperature that could harm plants. This significantly reduces weather-related losses.
Low maintenance
Once installed correctly, tarps are very durable and require little ongoing care. This makes them a set-it-and-forget-it solution for gardeners.
Reusability
Unlike other cover options, heavy-duty tarps can be used year after year. They reduce long-term expenses versus disposable materials.
Versatility
Tarps are versatile both in size, allowing covering of small areas or entire gardens. Fabric tarps are also lightweight for easy use on raised beds.
Use Tarpaulin Covers in the Garden?
Some key times when tarpaulin covers should be used in the garden include:
Protecting Plants from Frost
Tarps provide invaluable protection for cold-sensitive seedlings, annuals and perennials during spring and fall frosts. They create a mini-greenhouse effect to keep newly emerging plants warm.
Protecting Plants from Heavy Rain
Saturated soils can damage roots and cause disease issues. Tarps help redirect rainwater runoff away from vulnerable garden beds.
Protecting Plants During Wind Storms
Hail can slash leaves to ribbons while high winds may snap more delicate stems. Tarps secure everything safely in place.
Protecting from Extreme Sun Exposure
When temperatures rise into the 90s, some crops like lettuce or herbs can scorch. Lightweight fabric tarps diffuse sunlight without trapping too much heat.
Properly Installing and Anchoring Tarpaulin Covers
Proper installation is key to tarps functioning effectively for protection.
Preparing the Garden Before Covering
Remove any dead or diseased plant debris which could rot underneath. Trim back plants if needed. Level the soil surface.
Laying Out
Unroll the tarp across the entire garden bed or structure, draping edges over at least 12 inches deep. Bury the bottom edge with soil.
Anchoring Options for Securing Tarps
Stake down using U-shaped landscape fabric stakes every few feet. Alternatively, hammer rebar stakes around the perimeter and tie ropes through grommets.
Seed Starting and Young Plant Protection
Tarpaulin is invaluable for nurturing young seedlings and transplants before they go in the garden. Here are some tips:
Cold frames
Create makeshift cold frames by draping tarps over simple wooden frames set over seeded or transplanted beds. This mini-greenhouse effect keeps the microclimate warm enough for seeds to germinate and seedlings to establish without being exposed to harsh conditions yet.
Direct seeding
For directly seeded start rows under tarp tents, lay out tarps with rocks along the edges to weigh them down. Cut or poke holes in desired intervals along planting lines to insert seeds at correct depths before covering again. The tarp retains moisture around the seeds as they germinate.
FAQs
Will tarps damage plants?
No, as long as tarps are not too tightly secured. They should not directly touch and crush foliage. Proper ventilation is also important to prevent overheating.
How long can tarps be left on?
Tarps can safely stay on as long as needed to protect plants from weather threats. Check periodically for leaks or loosening. Remove before temperatures rise in spring.
Can I walk on tarps?
Lightweight fabric tarps can typically support weight but heavy snow/rain loads may damage plastic tarps if walked on. Distribute weight by stepping gently near edges and stakes.
Which is better, fabric or plastic?
Fabric tarps offer more breathability for spring/fall while heavier polyethylene holds up better to snow/ice. Choose the appropriate material based on weather conditions.
What if freezing occurs under the tarp?
As long as tarps are not too tightly secured, the freezing and thawing process will not harm plants. Their flexible nature allows for expansion without damage.
When should I buy tarps?
Look for sales in early winter. Have tarps on hand and ready for emergencies before severe weather hits by securing spares in your tool shed for future seasons as well.
Conclusion
Tarpaulin offers a highly effective and affordable method for protecting gardens against various weather threats throughout the year. Whether installing a full blanket over beds for winter or using tarps more flexibly for seed protection, season extension or temporary shade – the versatility of tarps makes them extremely valuable for any gardener’s toolbox. When chosen appropriately for the intended conditions, installed correctly with secure anchoring, and maintained regularly, tarpaulin covers serve as a set-it-and-forget-it solution for minimizing losses from the elements.
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