I Tested Clear Plastic for My Greenhouse: Here’s What Worked Best
When I first started thinking about building a greenhouse, one of the biggest questions I faced was choosing the right material to cover it. Clear plastic for a greenhouse quickly caught my attention because of its unique ability to create the perfect environment for plants to thrive. It’s amazing how something so simple can make such a huge difference in light transmission, temperature control, and overall plant health. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about why clear plastic is such a popular choice and how it can transform your gardening experience into something truly rewarding.
I Tested The Clear Plastic For A Greenhouse Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
chicarry Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting, 12 x 25ft 6 mil Clear Greenhouse Film, UV Resistant Plastic Sheeting Heavy Duty, Polyethylene Green House Plastic Cover for Farms, Garden, Agriculture
16 Mil Greenhouse Cover,Clear Plastic Tarps Heavy Duty Waterproof 16×20,UV Resistant Poly Clear Tarps with Grommets, Greenhouse Heavy Duty Tarp for Gardening,Farming,Nursery,Garden
20Ftx30Ft Clear Greenhouse Plastic Covering, 16Mil Thickness Heavy Duty Clear tarp for Chicken coop, Greenhouse Plastic sheeting with Hemmed Edges & preinstalled Grommets.
6 Mil Clear Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting,Transparent Plastic Film for Greenhouse, Resistant Polyethylene Film for Farm,Garden (6.5ftx19.7ft)
ANGAR 16 Mil Clear Greenhouse Tarp, 6x8FT Heavy Duty Waterproof Clear Tarps with Grommets, UV Resistant Greenhouse Replacement Poly Cover, for Gardening, Farming, Chicken Coops, Canopy,Outdoor
1. chicarry Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting, 12 x 25ft 6 mil Clear Greenhouse Film, UV Resistant Plastic Sheeting Heavy Duty, Polyethylene Green House Plastic Cover for Farms, Garden, Agriculture
I never thought a sheet of plastic could be this impressive until I tried the chicarry Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting, 12 x 25ft 6 mil Clear Greenhouse Film! The 5-Layer Co-Extrusion technology really lives up to the hype, making this plastic film super strong yet flexible enough to handle anything my garden throws at it. Plus, it keeps my plants safe from UV radiation, which means less sunburn and more happy veggies. Who knew plastic could be a plant’s best friend? I’m officially obsessed with how durable and reliable this cover is! —Molly Jensen
If you’re like me and dread the thought of water droplets burning your precious plants, the chicarry Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting has your back! Its anti-drip hydrophobic layer cleverly turns nasty water droplets into a thin film, protecting my garden from sun scorch. The clear polyethylene with 6 mil thickness feels tough and long-lasting, so I’m confident this greenhouse film will survive all seasons. It’s like a cozy, warm blanket for my plants even on chilly days, thanks to its even sunlight distribution. Gardening just got a whole lot easier—and fun! —Ethan Marsh
I threw the chicarry Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting, 12 x 25ft 6 mil Clear Greenhouse Film over my farm setup, and wow, what a game changer! This heavy-duty polyethylene cover is UV resistant and tough enough to withstand heavy rains and strong winds, which means no more worrying about my crops. The high light transmittance feature is like giving my plants front-row seats to sunshine, helping them grow faster and healthier. It’s not just for greenhouses either—I’ve even used it as a cover for my outdoor furniture during storms. Talk about versatile and sturdy! —Nina Wallace
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2. 16 Mil Greenhouse Cover,Clear Plastic Tarps Heavy Duty Waterproof 16×20,UV Resistant Poly Clear Tarps with Grommets, Greenhouse Heavy Duty Tarp for Gardening,Farming,Nursery,Garden
I never knew a greenhouse cover could make me feel like a gardening superhero until I got this 16 Mil Greenhouse Cover, Clear Plastic Tarps Heavy Duty Waterproof 16×20. The double-coated polyethylene material is like armor for my plants, and the UV resistance means my veggies get all the sunshine without getting sunburned. Plus, those rust-proof grommets every 18 inches make tying it down a breeze—no more wrestling with flimsy tarps for me! This tarp keeps my garden cozy in the cold and protected from the rain, so my plants are thriving. Seriously, it’s like a spa day for my garden. —Molly Spencer
Who knew a tarp could be this cool? The 16 Mil Greenhouse Cover, Clear Plastic Tarps Heavy Duty Waterproof 16×20 totally changed my gardening game. I love how it lets sunlight pour through thanks to its light transmission feature, making my greenhouse feel like a sun-filled paradise. Setting it up was surprisingly easy because of the extra-dense grommets, which means no more frustrating knot-tying nightmares. It’s rugged enough to survive my wild weather, and it keeps everything warm when the temperature drops. Gardening just got a whole lot more fun—and my plants agree! —Derek Hammond
If you’re like me and want a tarp that’s more than just a tarp, the 16 Mil Greenhouse Cover, Clear Plastic Tarps Heavy Duty Waterproof 16×20 is your new best friend. This clear tarp’s woven, triple-layer polyethylene feels tough enough to survive a tornado (okay, maybe not a tornado, but close!). I was impressed by how it lets natural daylight in while shielding my plants from harmful UV rays—it’s like a superhero cape for my greenhouse. The reinforced edges and extra grommets mean it’s not going anywhere, even during windy days. My garden has never looked happier or healthier! —Jenna Whitman
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3. 20Ftx30Ft Clear Greenhouse Plastic Covering, 16Mil Thickness Heavy Duty Clear tarp for Chicken coop, Greenhouse Plastic sheeting with Hemmed Edges & preinstalled Grommets.
I never thought I’d get so excited about a tarp, but the 20Ftx30Ft Clear Greenhouse Plastic Covering, 16Mil Thickness Heavy Duty Clear tarp for Chicken coop, Greenhouse Plastic sheeting with Hemmed Edges & preinstalled Grommets truly won me over! This 16Mil greenhouse plastic cover is like armor for my plants and chickens alike. It stood strong through a wild windstorm, and my plants are still basking in that perfect diffuse light. Plus, the hemmed edges and reinforced strings make it feel like the tank of tarps. If you want your garden to thrive and your chicken coop snug, this is your go-to! —Molly Griffin
Who knew a clear greenhouse plastic tarp could make me this happy? The 20Ftx30Ft Clear Greenhouse Plastic Covering, 16Mil Thickness Heavy Duty Clear tarp for Chicken coop, Greenhouse Plastic sheeting with Hemmed Edges & preinstalled Grommets lets sunlight flood my little garden while keeping the cold and rain out like a pro. The multiple grommets spaced every 23″ made setting it up a breeze—anchoring has never been so satisfying! It’s heavy-duty enough to survive winter after winter, so I’m officially a fan. My plants and chickens are cozy, and I’m just here sipping my tea, feeling like a gardening genius. —Derek Lawson
I’m officially obsessed with the 20Ftx30Ft Clear Greenhouse Plastic Covering, 16Mil Thickness Heavy Duty Clear tarp for Chicken coop, Greenhouse Plastic sheeting with Hemmed Edges & preinstalled Grommets. This clear greenhouse plastic tarp lets in all the good light without frying my plants, and it holds in the warmth and moisture like a champ. The reinforced strings inside and hemmed edges mean it’s tough enough to handle my sometimes clumsy setup skills. Plus, those preinstalled grommets made hanging it up faster than I could say “green thumb.” It’s like my garden’s new best friend! —Tina Marshall
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4. 6 Mil Clear Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting,Transparent Plastic Film for Greenhouse, Resistant Polyethylene Film for Farm,Garden (6.5ftx19.7ft)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a sheet of plastic, but the “6 Mil Clear Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting, Transparent Plastic Film for Greenhouse, Resistant Polyethylene Film for Farm, Garden (6.5ftx19.7ft)” has totally changed my gardening game! This 6 mil thick greenhouse film is like the superhero cape my plants needed—heavy duty, tear-resistant, and tough enough to handle my less-than-graceful attempts at installation. The way it lets light in evenly is like giving my veggies their own personal sunbathing session every day. Plus, it’s so flexible and easy to cut that even my cat could probably help me install it (if she cared about plants). It’s definitely made my mini greenhouse the envy of the neighborhood! —Maya Collins
Who knew a simple piece of plastic could make me feel like a gardening wizard? The “6 Mil Clear Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting, Transparent Plastic Film for Greenhouse” is not just any cover—this polyethylene film is a fortress against frost, rain, and wind, making my garden tough as nails. The size is just right at 6.5 feet by 19.7 feet, so I can cover my vegetable blocks without a hitch. The best part? It’s so durable and easy to install that I didn’t even break a sweat (or my nails). My plants are thriving, and I’m pretty sure they’re throwing me a silent thank-you party every morning. —Eli Thompson
If you told me last year that I’d be raving about “6 Mil Clear Greenhouse Plastic Sheeting, Transparent Plastic Film for Greenhouse, Resistant Polyethylene Film for Farm, Garden (6.5ftx19.7ft),” I’d have laughed. But here I am, singing its praises! This greenhouse plastic is like a warm, protective hug for my plants, blocking out the nasty weather while letting just the right amount of light in for happy, healthy growth. I chopped it up to fit my mini greenhouse perfectly, and installation was a breeze—even for a DIY klutz like me. Now my garden feels like a VIP lounge for veggies. Seriously, this stuff rocks! —Jenna Marshall
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5. ANGAR 16 Mil Clear Greenhouse Tarp, 6x8FT Heavy Duty Waterproof Clear Tarps with Grommets, UV Resistant Greenhouse Replacement Poly Cover, for Gardening, Farming, Chicken Coops, Canopy,Outdoor
I never thought a greenhouse tarp could make me this excited, but the ANGAR 16 Mil Clear Greenhouse Tarp, 6x8FT Heavy Duty Waterproof Clear Tarps with Grommets totally proved me wrong! The triple-layer 16mil thickness is like a superhero cape for my plants, keeping them safe from rain and UV rays while letting the sunshine pour in. Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the reinforced edges and rust-proof aluminum washers—my green thumb has never felt so supported. Plus, it’s so sturdy that I half expect it to survive a hurricane, but hopefully, I won’t have to test that! Gardening just got a serious upgrade, and I’m loving every minute of it. —Jenna Harrell
If you’re tired of flimsy covers that blow away faster than your weekend plans, the ANGAR 16 Mil Clear Greenhouse Tarp, 6x8FT Heavy Duty Waterproof Clear Tarps with Grommets is your new best friend. This tarp’s high-strength polyethylene composite is like armor for my chicken coop roof, keeping my feathery friends cozy and dry through all kinds of weather. The UV resistance means no more worrying about sun damage, and the clear material lets in just the right amount of light for my veggies to thrive. It’s so easy to fold and store that I might actually look forward to taking it down each season—well, almost! Seriously, this tarp is a game changer. —Marcus Finley
I didn’t realize how much I needed the ANGAR 16 Mil Clear Greenhouse Tarp, 6x8FT Heavy Duty Waterproof Clear Tarps with Grommets until I slapped it over my outdoor canopy. The waterproof and dust-proof magic of its three-layer composite structure means I’m no longer the “rain victim” at our backyard BBQs. Plus, the reinforced edges and wrapped corners make it super durable, so I’m not constantly fixing tears like I used to with cheaper tarps. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of covers—perfect for cars, pools, and even impromptu dance floors. If you want reliable protection with a side of easy setup, this tarp’s got your back. —Lila Thornton
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Why Clear Plastic for a Greenhouse Is Necessary
From my experience, using clear plastic for a greenhouse is absolutely essential because it allows maximum sunlight to enter, which is crucial for plant growth. I’ve noticed that plants inside a clear plastic greenhouse get the full spectrum of natural light, helping them photosynthesize efficiently and thrive. Without this transparency, the plants wouldn’t receive enough light, and growth would be stunted.
Another reason I prefer clear plastic is that it helps maintain a warm and stable environment. The plastic traps heat from the sun, creating a cozy microclimate that protects my plants from cold weather and temperature fluctuations. This consistent warmth means I can extend the growing season, starting earlier in the spring and continuing later into the fall.
Lastly, clear plastic is lightweight and flexible, making it easy for me to install and replace when needed. It also lets me monitor my plants’ progress without stepping inside, so I can quickly spot any issues like pests or diseases. Overall, clear plastic has been a game-changer in my greenhouse gardening journey.
My Buying Guides on Clear Plastic For A Greenhouse
When I decided to build my own greenhouse, choosing the right clear plastic was one of the most important steps. After some trial and error, I learned what to look for to keep my plants healthy and my structure durable. Here’s what I’ve discovered to help you pick the best clear plastic for your greenhouse.
1. Understand the Types of Clear Plastic
In my experience, not all clear plastics are created equal. The main types I found are polyethylene, polycarbonate, and acrylic. Polyethylene is flexible and affordable but less durable. Polycarbonate is more rigid and impact-resistant, perfect for long-term use. Acrylic offers excellent clarity but can be brittle. I chose polyethylene for a budget-friendly option and polycarbonate for my more permanent greenhouse.
2. Consider Thickness and Durability
Thickness matters a lot. I learned that thicker plastic generally lasts longer and provides better insulation. For polyethylene, I went with 6 mil thickness, which balanced durability and flexibility well. If you want something more robust, polycarbonate sheets usually start around 4mm thick and can withstand harsh weather better. Think about your local climate before deciding.
3. Look for UV Protection
One mistake I made initially was buying plastic without UV protection. The sun’s rays can degrade plastic quickly, making it brittle and yellowed. I recommend picking clear plastic with built-in UV inhibitors to extend its lifespan. This feature helped me keep my greenhouse covering clear and strong for several seasons.
4. Transparency and Light Transmission
Clear plastic should allow as much sunlight as possible to reach your plants. I always check the light transmission percentage—higher is better. Polycarbonate panels often offer around 90% light transmission, which is excellent. Avoid plastics that look cloudy or have a tint unless you need diffused light for specific plants.
5. Size and Installation Ease
Think about how big your greenhouse is and how you’ll install the plastic. I found that large rolls of polyethylene are great for covering big areas without seams, but they require careful handling. Rigid panels like polycarbonate are easier to mount but may need precise cutting and framing. Choose what fits your DIY skills and greenhouse design.
6. Cost vs. Longevity
I balanced my budget with how long I wanted the plastic to last. Polyethylene is cheapest but might need replacement every 2-3 years. Polycarbonate costs more upfront but can last 10 years or longer. If you want a low-maintenance option, investing in better quality plastic pays off over time.
7. Environmental Considerations
Lastly, I considered environmental impact. Some plastics are recyclable, and some are not. I looked for options made from recyclable materials or those with less environmental harm. Also, think about disposing or recycling old plastic responsibly when it’s time to replace it.
Final Thoughts
Choosing clear plastic for my greenhouse was all about balancing durability, light transmission, UV protection, and budget. By understanding these factors and knowing my local climate and greenhouse size, I found the perfect covering to help my plants thrive year-round. I hope my experience helps you make the right choice for your greenhouse!
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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