Hoop houses

We decided to experiment with a new method of growing a few warm-weather crops before the "proper" time - we hate waiting until after Memorial Day to plant, especially living in an area with a limited growing season.  After a trip to the nursery, we stopped by Home Depot to pick up supplies for three small-scale hoop houses.

A few feet of PVC pipe, zip ties, & barrier plastic (we chose one commonly used as a drop cloth that will last one season but it's possible to find more sturdy plastic).

 The bottoms easily detach from the sides, allowing us to break them down for winter storage.

I look angry because
1) My beer is empty
2) It appears I have a mustache

I look happier because
1) Steve is bringing me a refill
2) My mustache was just a shadow

Our new 'mater & pepper plants have taken swimmingly well to the hoop houses.  By day they soak up fresh air & sunlight, by night they turn into a warm greenhouse with the heat of the day trapped in the hoop house.  We cover the plants if it appears temps will dip below 40, otherwise they stay uncovered.  We'll report back at the end of summer if the new experiment worked...