Lessons learned in construction of high tunnels kept Texas A&M AgriLife Research tunnels securely in place during a recent “bomb cyclone” that included wind gusts of 80 to 90 miles per hour near Amarillo, Texas.
High tunnels allows vegetables to grow earlier and longer in a season.
Severe straight-line winds nearly blow a high tunnel completely out of the ground.
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On each long side of a high tunnel, dig four holes large enough for two 80-pound bags of concrete, spaced evenly along the ground posts. After each hole is dug, drill a half-inch hole through the bottom of a 2-inch by 6-inch board and ground post. With a 5-inch by half-inch galvanized carriage bolt, washer and earth anchor, place an anchor in the hole.
Using a good-quality utility tape on pipe joints, wire ends, wire connectors or any sharp edge will increase a high-tunnel cover’s life. Inspect the cover often to check for sharp edges.
Charlie Rush
Charlie Rush is a plant pathologist with Texas A&M University-AgriLife Research. Visit www.tamu.edu for more information.
