i do take the plastic cover down every spring and put it up in late fall, between time let the pumkin and squash cover the structure.

Well, I did find something.

Too pricey for my hoophouse, but it's apparently clear.

Here is a link that might be useful: EskayLite

Most of the greenhouse plastics ARE reasonably* clear. And it doesn't "frost up" when exposed to sunlight (like regular plastics purchased at Lowes and Home Depot). However, the greenhouse plastics DO turn yellow over time.

I've used the "two year" greenhouse plastic and it stayed reasonably* clear for the two years but it DID yellow somewhat. When I cover the greenhouse this Fall I plan on using a double layer (inflated) of 4 year plastic.

One other POSITIVE factor is that the greenhouse plastics are less prone to ripping since the plastic tends to stretch as opposed to ripping/tearing. I find that the regular plastics from Lowes and Home Depot tend to rip easily along the "grain" of the plastic if caught on anything sharp.

*"reasonably" means that the greenhouse plastics are NOT see-through but are nearly clear, allowing one to see a rather blurred view into or out of the greenhouse. This factor didn't change over the two years I used the greenhoues plastic.

Chris

I'd have to agree that all plastics seem clear when installed but the technology is improved in light transmission and light dispersion and even in how condensation forms (so types prevent dripping). All being said I would go with a greenhouse 6 mil plastic at the most reasonable price and not worry about the frills. I'm going on my 11th year on the same 3year film with no real need to replace it yet.

I would avoid allowing the plastic to overheat in the summer and try to keep chemicals off it, especially bleach. Yellowing is usually not a problem so much as loosing elasticity and eventually cracking and tearing.

bmoser,

Just got to ask, what brand of plastic are you using???? I'm looking on recovering this fall.

Thanks
Stan