UK polytunnels cost from 139 to 399 pounds for a 3m to 6m frame, while greenhouses range from 435 to over 1,400 pounds. Polytunnels offer 30-50% more growing space per pound spent but need recovering every 5-7 years. Greenhouses last 25 years or more, provide better ventilation, and suit heat-loving crops like tomatoes and peppers. Neither structure needs planning permission below 2.5m ridge height in most local authority areas.
Key takeaways
- Polytunnels cost 60-70% less than greenhouses of equivalent floor area
- Greenhouse glass or polycarbonate lasts 25+ years; polytunnel covers need replacing every 5-7 years
- Polytunnels offer more usable ground-level growing space per pound spent
- Greenhouses provide superior ventilation with roof vents and louvre windows
- Neither structure typically needs planning permission below 2.5m ridge height
- Tomatoes, peppers and aubergines perform best in a greenhouse; salads and brassicas thrive in polytunnels
polytunnel greenhouse growing under cover grow your own garden structures
Our team produces practical UK gardening guidance from source research, contributor records and established horticultural practice. Editorial standards are overseen by Matt W.
