How to Make a PVC Shade for Tomato Plants

Tomato plants need sufficient shade to protect themselves from the harsh sun rays during the summer months. If you are a tomato grower and looking for an affordable way to provide shade to your tomato plants, then making a PVC shade could be the perfect solution. PVC shade structures are easy to make, durable, and inexpensive. Here’s how you can make a PVC shade for your tomato plants:

Materials Required

To make a PVC shade for your tomato plants, you will need the following materials:

PVC pipes (1/2 inch diameter and 10 feet long) – 6

PVC elbows (1/2 inch diameter) – 6

PVC tees (1/2 inch diameter) – 6

PVC coupling (1/2 inch diameter) – 1

Shade cloth – 12 feet long and 10 feet wide

Cable ties – 50

Scissors

Steps to Make a PVC Shade for Tomato Plants

Follow the below steps to make a PVC shade for your tomato plants:

Step 1: Cut the PVC Pipes

Cut two PVC pipes into 5-foot lengths using the scissors. Also, cut four PVC pipes into 4-foot lengths using the scissors.

Step 2: Connect the PVC Pipes

Connect the PVC pipes with PVC elbows to make a rectangle framework. The two 5-foot PVC pipes should be used as the top and bottom of the rectangle, and the four 4-foot PVC pipes should be used as the sides of the rectangle. Connect the elbows to both ends of the PVC pipes to form a sturdy frame.

Step 3: Connect the Tee Coupler

Next, connect a PVC tee coupler to each corner of the rectangle frame. Tighten each tee coupler until they are sturdy and do not wiggle.

Step 4: Add the Cross Bar

Take two PVC pipes measuring 5-foot that were not previously cut and connect them with the PVC coupling. Place the crossbar on the top of the rectangle frame and connect it to the tee couplers on both sides of the rectangle frame.

Step 5: Cover the Frame with Shade Cloth

Unroll the shade cloth and place it over the rectangle frame. Ensure that the shade cloth covers the entire frame and there is enough shade cloth left on all sides. Use cable ties to tie the shade cloth to the frame tightly. Use as many cable ties as required until the shade cloth is tight and secure.

Conclusion

By following these simple steps, you can create an affordable, easy-to-use, and durable PVC shade for your tomato plants. With the shade structure in place, you can protect your tomato plants from harmful sun rays and ensure healthy growth.