Greenhouses in Kenya protect crops from harsh sun, heavy rains, and pests while boosting yields by up to 50%. Greenhouse materials for metallic or wooden structures cost from KES 140,000 for a basic 15x8m setup.

Cost of Greenhouse Materials in Kenya

The cost of greenhouse construction materials in vary depending on the size and type of greenhouse structure. A wooden greenhouse of size 8 x 15m would cost around KES 140,000 to KES 195,000 for complete materials and construction.

Greenhouse polythene sheet goes for around KES 110 to 130 per square meter.

Shade nets are between KES 13,500 to KES 17,500 per 4 x 50 m rolls. Insect nets are also sold per square meter at 65 to KES 85.

Greenhouse Construction Materials in Kenya

Timber or Wooden Poles

Wooden greenhouses are known for their low construction costs. Our wooden greenhouses are built with treated wooden poles. They create vertical pillars and horizontal roofing support.

Wooden poles are available easily due to their low cost and high supply.  Wood is reliable for building the greenhouse structure but needs to be treated to avoid termite damage or rots.

Greenhouse polythene Sheet

Greenhouses in Kenya are commonly covered with UV treated polythene sheets. The standard polythene recommended is 200-micron UV treated polythene sheet. 200-micron size allows 85 % light penetration which is important for proper crop growth.

Galvanized Steel frame

Galvanized steel frames are used for constructing metallic greenhouses. Metallic greenhouses are preferably made using galvanized steel to prevent corrosion and enhance long lasting performance. Galvanized steel is suitable for places with acidic conditions such as coastal regions.

Insect net

Makes up the ventilation netting in a greenhouse structure.  A ventilation is covered with an insect net as it can allow air circulation as well as prevent insect entry.

Channel lock profiles

Steel profiles have channel lock design which allows attachment of the polythene sheet. The profiles are screwed along the edges of the greenhouse poles or steel frames.

Wires

Zig zag wires hold the greenhouse polythene or nets onto the profiles.

Foundation Cement and Ballast

The wooden poles or galvanized steel frame needs a strong support on the foundation or ground erection. Cement and ballast are used to make it firm for a long time.

Greenhouse Irrigation Materials

Inside the greenhouse you’ll need irrigation and accessories to support the crops.  Drip irrigation method is the most ideal way to water crops in your greenhouse. The requirements for greenhouse drip irrigation include:

• Drip irrigation kits – includes HDPE pipes, fittings, driplines, valves filters and connectors.
• Tanks – for storing water needed for cultivation.

Other items needed for Greenhouse farming

• Seedling trays
• Planting medium such as cocopeat or perlite
• Mulching paper
• Crop support or trellising wire

Which Option of Greenhouse Frame Materials to Use

In Kenya, you have two options of greenhouse construction structure either wooden or metallic. Each fits different requirements, budgets and locations.

Go for wooden frames if you want affordability. Farmers build them from treated timber like eucalyptus or pine. Treatment stops rot and termites. These frames suit small plots under 30 meters long. You set them up fast with local carpenters. In windy areas like Rift Valley, add extra bracing. Wooden frames last 5 to 10 years with care. Clean them yearly and replace damaged parts.

Metallic frames outperform wood in durability. Galvanized steel resists rust and lasts 15 years or more. You find them in tunnel or ventilated designs. They handle larger sizes, up to 30×16 meters. In coastal regions with salty air, galvanized coating protects against corrosion. Install them with bolts for easy fixes. Farmers report fewer collapses during storms compared to wood.

Greenhouse Sizes matter too. A 15x8m wooden greenhouse fits small-scale or beginner farmers. Expand later by adding sections. Metallic options are more ideal for large scale or commercial growers.

Greenhouse Covering Materials

Coverings act as your greenhouse skin. They control temperature, light, and humidity. In Kenya’s hot climate, pick ones with UV protection to prevent burning plants.

UV-treated polythene leads the pack. This plastic sheet, often 200 microns thick, blocks harmful rays while transmitting 85% of light. You roll it over frames and secure with clips. It diffuses light evenly, reducing hot spots. In highland areas, it insulates against cold nights. Replace every 3 to 5 years as it yellows. Farmers in Meru use it for vegetables and see 30% yield jumps.

Polycarbonate sheets offer premium protection. These rigid panels last 10 years or longer. They provide better insulation than polythene, keeping heat in during cooler months. Light transmission hits 90%. In arid zones like Kitui, they reduce water evaporation. However, they are much expensive and less suitable for growers who are venturing to farming.

Shade nets work for open-sided structures by reducing sunlight by 30 to 90%. Use them in very sunny spots to prevent scorching. Combine with polythene for hybrid setups. In coastal farms, nets block salt spray too.

How to Buy the Right Greenhouse Covering Materials

Match coverings to your crops.

Tomatoes need more light, so go for clear polythene. Leafy greens thrive under partial shade. Measure your site’s sunlight hours. Too much? Add nets. Too little? Stick to transparent options.

Ventilation

Top-vent designs in metallic frames lets hot air escape. Side vents improve airflow. Poor ventilation breeds Mold in humid areas like Kisumu. Use insect nets to cover vents for pest control. These fine meshes keep insects out without blocking air.

Install your greenhouse cover tight

When installing greenhouse cover materials ensure they are attached tightly. Loose ones tear whenever windstorms occur.

Greenhouse Setup Practices

• Site selection is the first approach. Pick flat land with good drainage. South-facing orientation maximizes sun in most areas.
• Leveling the ground. Remove rocks and weeds. Lay a gravel base for better footing.
• Assemble frames step by step. Start with the base, then arches, then braces. Two people speed it up.
• Stretch the greenhouse polythene sheet and attach it to the structure. Ensure the edges overlap edges by 30 cm for proper attachment.

Hear From Our Clients

We constructed a metallic greenhouse 8 x 30 m for our client in Kipeto, Kajiado County.

Top Quality Greenhouse Materials in Kenya

At Aqua Hub Kenya, our determination is to ensure farmers can grow sustainably and improve yields while cutting down cost. For this reason, we supply quality greenhouse materials in Kenya and construct durable farming structures.

 Call 0790719020

Frequently Asked Questions