For growers wanting to evolve their growing method from indoor to outdoor, light deprivation greenhouses have become the preferred method to triple their harvest and produce top quality cannabis. When constructing a greenhouse for this growing technique, the light dep tarp, also referred to as a blackout cover is the most crucial element to a successful grow. Darkness is important for cannabis, especially during the dark period of your light deprivation schedule. So the light dep tarp you use should block light completely.
If you are considering switching your growth method, it is important to know that indoor light dep tarps are not measured the same way as outdoor tarps.
Americover is a team of premier experts in greenhouse plastic and light deprivation sheeting. We are trusted by agricultural experts across the nation who rely on our American-made products and innovative solutions.
“We hear from plenty of growers who are switching to outdoor light dep growing methods,” says Jason Trieger, Americover Account Manager with over 28 years of experience in plastic sheeting products and applications. “Their biggest questions are is there something stronger than panda film.”
This starting guide will highlight the difference between indoor and outdoor light deprivation covers, and how to calculate how much sheeting you will need to cover your greenhouse.
Should I the Light Dep Tarp Inside or Outside the Greenhouse?
The short answer is it depends on your budget. Interior light deprivation covers are made of a material that may not have necessary qualities such as puncture resistance or weather resistance to be used outdoors. Interior light deprivation tarps are meant to last for years with little to no maintenance. Additionally, indoor light dept tarps have different installation requirements and typically require an automatic pulley system.
Exterior light deprivation covers, however, are specially built to withstand outdoor conditions. Outdoor light dep tarps have different levels of tolerance from wear and tear to resistance against UV degradation. And unlike interior light dep systems, there is more flexibility for how you cover and uncover your greenhouse.
More Resources: Learn all about light deprivation by visiting our resource page.
How to Calculate What Size Light Dep Tarp I Need
To determine how much light dep tarp you need to purchase, you must calculate the size of your greenhouse frame.
To calculate what size light dep tarp you will need to cover the top and sides of your greenhouse, multiply the depth of the greenhouse by the circumference of the curve of your greenhouse frame plus two to four feet so that you can secure your tarp to the ground.
If your greenhouse frame does not have solid end walls, your tarp will need to be long enough to cover them. To calculate what sized light dep tarp you will need to cover the end walls of your greenhouse, add the height of your greenhouse times two to your measurement of the depth of your greenhouse, adding a foot or so to each measurement for extra security.
Learn more and see examples when you read our Greenhouse Sheeting Size Calculation Guide.
How to Pull Your Light Dep Tarp
Light deprivation covers can be pulled by hand or with an automatic puller. If you are not concerned with cost and are looking for the most convenience, an automatic puller, which can be programmed to cover and uncover your greenhouse at intervals, is your best option.
Related Article: Tarp-Pulling Pro-Tips for Greenhouse Light Deprivation
What is the Best Light Dep Tarp for My Outdoor Greenhouse
Americover’s BOLD® Black Out Light Deprivation Tarp is an 8 mil, dual-sided black/white reinforced polyethylene film specially designed for light deprivation greenhouse applications. Improved carbon black side enhances the outdoor life expectancy and increases the light blocking capability. Great for cannabis growers using automatic light deprivation systems or manual tarp pulling systems.
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As an Americover customer, you will receive the personalized support of a dedicated account manager to simplify the ordering process and ensure the best solution for every one of your projects. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and fulfill orders Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. If you would like to speak with a representative, call us at 760-388-6294 or contact us.