The information provided in this three-part series will be published in the future as an EDIS publication. Co-authors are: Yvette Goodiel, Paul Fisher, Robert C. Hochmuth, Ying Zhang, and Christa D. Court.

Severe weather (e.g., severe storms, tornadoes, and tropical cyclones) in Florida can damage greenhouse structures and the foods and ornamental plants being grown within them. Producers must balance the costs of structural and system upgrades against the costs of storm-related damages. Many of the considerations faced by greenhouse growers apply to other types of protected agriculture production. In this three-part series, we provide guidance to help growers plan for future storms, so they can navigate risks, mitigate impacts, recover more quickly, and build operational resiliency. In Part 1, we discuss some of the reasons growers may choose to produce within protective structures, trends in the acreage of protected agriculture, economic contributions, and storm-related losses. Part 2 described the specific impacts that protected agriculture producers face from severe weather events in Florida. Here in Part 3, we provide guidance for growers to manage risk, mitigate impacts, and build resiliency against severe storms.

Greenhouse producers face risk management decisions during greenhouse construction and in preparing for and recovering from storms. The guidance herein, along with commodity-specific guidance from the USDA’s Climate Hub Producer Guides (2021) is intended to support producers in weighing options and considerations.

Pre-construction considerations

Before building a new greenhouse or shadehouse structure, include severe weather considerations into choices of structure location, design, ventilation, and controls (Callahan, 2024). Consult the local building department for specific codes and permit requirements (Humphrey 2010) and be aware that building codes set minimum requirements (NIST 2022). Depending on your situation and risk tolerance, going above the minimum standards to protect against severe weather may be worth the effort and investment. Avoid siting the structure in areas prone to flooding and consider building the structure on top of a raised pad for additional flood protection. Even if flooding has not been an issue in the chosen location, keep in mind that the structure itself may contribute to flooding, as rainfall flows from the roof to the ground surrounding the structure. Install any needed drainage infrastructure, such as French drains, before building the greenhouse. In designing the greenhouse, including features to direct the roof runoff away from the structure and adjacent fields. If multiple structures will be constructed, allow room between them for land and structure maintenance activities. Choose a greenhouse site and orientation that will allow for good ventilation from the prevailing winds, with windbreaks or other structures to protect against high winds. The greenhouse structural supports, end walls, anchors, and other features should be designed to withstand high winds, shed excessive rainfall, and support primary crop loads. Consider automating the greenhouse controls, to allow more rapid adjustments to changes in microclimate within the structure.

Preparing for storms

Preparing standing greenhouses for storms includes decisions made before a specific storm is on the way. For example, decisions must be made about when to plant and when/if to remove greenhouse coverings. Storm season risks are compounded when growers have bare soil ready for planting or crops in the ground. For this reason, some growers choose to delay bed preparation and planting when a storm with heavy winds or rains is forecast (Roos 2008). When a storm is approaching, the time and labor costs associated with removing greenhouse plastic ahead of a storm must be weighed against the risks and costs of major structural damage (Figure 3). To complicate decisions further, tornadoes and microbursts often co-occur with hurricanes and tropical storms. Though forecasts can often predict the overall wind speed and direction, the risk of extreme wind variability is more difficult to forecast. For this reason, some growers may choose to remove greenhouse plastic whenever a tropical storm is forecast for their area. Prepare in advance by developing a plan for when/if to remove greenhouse coverings, delay bed preparation and planting, or adjust other aspects of normal operations, based on factors such as cost of plastic/shadecloth removal and replacement, anticipated wind strength, presence of windbreaks, and other factors.

Recovering from storms

In the aftermath of a storm, growers must balance the costs of recovery for both crops and affected structures. For example, the costs of culling damaged crops must be weighed against the risks of pest/disease infestation and the costs of restoring crops to a marketable condition (Yu and Campbell 2024). Decisions must be made about whether to make structural repairs or invest in structural upgrades or new construction, including upgrades to manage future power losses, reduce time/labor needed to prepare and restore structures, prevent flooding, and protect farm inputs.

Deciding how much to invest in storm preparedness is about weighing the costs of time and material investments against the potential costs of lost product, structures, and labor spent on recovery efforts.

Mitigating Impacts

Damage mitigation for greenhouse growers can include a range of actions, from low-cost preventative maintenance to investment in hardened structures and adapted structural covering mechanisms.

Year-Round Preventative Maintenance Recommendations

Greenhouse structural maintenance

Keep greenhouse structures well-maintained to lessen the need for last-minute repairs during storm season. Greenhouse coverings have lifespans ranging from up to four years for 4-mil poly to 25-plus years for glass (Dooley 2025). Following a set schedule to replace your coverings before they reach the end of their lifespan can help ensure they remain in good condition to resist storm damage. Seal gaps and cracks. Check connections and structural members each time you change your plastic (Paul 2013) or seasonally (Callahan 2024). Inspect the roofs of protected structures twice annually to detect and address any issues preventatively (Dooley 2025). Keep structural components tightened, including truss and frame connectors, cables, and braces. Brace heater exhaust pipes and other components against heavy winds (Mullins undated). Use tek screws or similar fasteners installed through the sides of frame members to prevent slippage of brace bands and u-clamps (Bartok 2015). If not already present, diagonal braces can be installed on all four corners of the structure to provide additional vertical stability (Bartok 2015). Consider having all welds professionally inspected. If possible, prepare a secure storage area to include artificial lighting and other crop supports, in which relocated sensitive greenhouse crops can be stored during storms. Make sure the AC or ventilation in the storage area can handle the extra heat or moisture loads that the crop and associated supports will add to the room.

Managing debris

Going into storms with well-pruned trees and gutters free of debris can help to lessen the stressors the greenhouse will have to bear. Maintain gutters and downspouts free of leaves and other debris year-round to ensure efficient water drainage. Preventatively prune trees in vicinity of structures to remove dead or poorly connected branches and maintain good structural integrity (Mullins undated).

Drainage

Surface water drainage infrastructure also requires year-round maintenance. Keep drainage swales open and cleared of obstructions. Install more drainage as needed to direct water away from the tunnels but be careful to avoid digging within 18-24” of ground posts (Callahan 2024). If necessary, install pumps or drains to prevent flooding (Dooley 2025). Larger operations might benefit from installing a retention pond to collect and filter rainfall. Consider building raised beds and placing mulch in walkways to avoid flooding of crops and improve water infiltration and storage (Callahan 2024). Placing mulch on planted or bare rows can also help protect soil in the event of a storm and prevent splashing of soilborne pathogens onto crops (Roos 2008).

Backup power

To minimize potential damage, it is essential to have a reliable standby generator capable of powering critical systems such as heaters, fans, blowers, and pumps. During a hurricane, the generator should keep vital functions operational, including air pumps to maintain the inflation of high tunnel glazing films, the irrigation system to prevent plant dehydration, and internal fans to ensure proper air circulation. After the storm, the generator should power essential functions like ventilation and evaporative cooling, which rely on air exchanges. To maintain uninterrupted operation, it is important to have enough fuel for the generator to run for the entire duration of the storm. Additionally, regular generator testing is recommended to ensure proper functioning and to avoid any unexpected issues during an emergency. Maintain generators in good working order by operating them monthly. At least annually, perform a full load test, during which the generator is operated on 80% load for a minimum of two hours (Dooley 2025).

Employee training/communications

In the event of a storm, employees will need to be familiar with the use of specialized equipment and aware of safety and communication protocols. To ensure readiness, conduct employee training in storm preparedness and recovery year-round. Train employees annually on the safe use of storm preparation and recovery equipment, such as generators and chainsaws (Vann undated). Maintain an updated list of employee contact information and establish a protocol for communicating with them during and after storms (Roos 2008).

Storm preparation and recovery supports

Agencies, such as the USDA, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), National Weather Service (NWS), Extension, and local governments provide technical and financial assistance for agribusinesses in preparing for and recovering from storms. Establishing lines of communication with resource agencies well in advance of storm season ensures that you will be kept updated on available resources before, during, and after storms. Reach out and subscribe to receive email or text notifications from your local Extension agent, industry associations, USDA Farm Service Agency, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, FDACS, NWS, local business development board, small business associations, industry associations, and other applicable service agencies in the area. Maintain a list of agency websites and phone numbers, especially if you are not yet subscribed to receive notifications. Become familiar with the types of assistance each agency offers, their application process, and required documentation. As of this writing, the USDA does not offer assistance with greenhouse structures, though high tunnel replacement costs may be covered (Abbey, NRCS District Conservationist, personal communication 2025).

In addition to the formal support provided by resource agencies/organizations and local governments, nearby agribusinesses and other community partners can be mutual support (Mills 2025). Consider having conversations in advance with neighbors and others in your community about resources you can provide to one another, including storage spaces for sensitive greenhouse crops.

Insurance coverage

Given the amount of damage that can result from a disaster event, choosing the right insurance company and re-evaluating coverage over time will be worth the time spent. Research potential insurers to determine which will offer the best service, including coverages and risk management services specific to greenhouse production (Guth 2025). Re-evaluate your insurance coverage on at least a yearly basis, including valuation of rebuilding costs. Additional re-evaluation triggers include business expansions, new employee hires, and significant increases in business (Guth 2025). Review insurance policy exclusions, limitations, and deductibles (Dooley 2025). Make sure your coverage is reflective of your current operations and inclusive of crops as well as structures and equipment, including leased equipment. For example, the USDA Risk Management Agency offers Hurricane Insurance Protection – Wind Index (HIP-WI), which helps with underlying crop insurance deductibles in the event of a hurricane (USDA 2025). With construction costs increasing over time, structural insurance coverage should be reviewed annually and updated based on current rebuilding costs (Dooley 2025). Even if not required in your location, consider purchasing flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program, if located in an area prone to flooding (Dooley 2025).  Aside from the costs of rebuilding and re-stocking inventory and materials, storm recovery costs include the loss of income due to power losses, delays in rebuilding, and supply chain shortages. Consider purchasing business interruption insurance with coverage extending at least six to nine months, as well as policies for utility service interruption and contingent business income coverage (Dooley 2025). Insurance coverage should include general liability, including limited pollution liability and cyber coverage. An excess liability policy is an option for additional coverage. Be aware of documentation needed to file a claim. Reach out to your insurance company and your Farm Services Agency representatives to make sure you know the exact documentation needed to certify losses, file claims, and apply for assistance (Roos 2008). Examples of documentation include photos, narratives, witness statements, receipts, and videos (Guth 2025).

During storm season

With year-round maintenance in place, the added burdens during storm season are minimized. Storm season can then be a time to stock up on supplies. Purchase and store fuel to run fans, blowers, pumps, and other equipment. Gather containers in which irrigation water can be stored if needed. Consider purchasing plastic, shadecloth, sandbags, and other supplies to have on hand (Hochmuth and Laughlin 2025).

Immediately before a storm

Documenting pre-storm conditions

Photograph and video infrastructure and crops, to allow a comparison of pre- and post-storm conditions (Yu and Campbell 2024).

Preparing the structure

Whether or not to cut or remove the plastic or shadecloth covering the structure is a major decision leading up to a storm. Variability in wind speeds can make a significant difference in the amount of force the structure must withstand. For example, an increase in wind speed from 75 to 100 mph can increase the wind pressure by 80% (Paul 2013). Consider the force of the wind pressing the covering against the frame of the structure. Consider also that if the covering becomes loose, due to a tear or lack of inflation, the covering can exert forces from varying directions and angles. The rating of the structure can be used as a guide in assessing the top wind speeds it can withstand (Mullins undated). In addition to wind speed, Paul (2013) notes that the force of rainwater must be considered as well. Yearly inspections and a quick check after any significant weather event is crucial for maintaining system integrity and ensuring proper weatherproofing.

Depending on whether or not the plastic will be left in place or removed, how the plastic is stowed or protected in place will be important for storm preparation. If the plastic is removed, stow it under cover if possible. The plastic will be more difficult to place back onto the structure if it is holding rainwater (Paul 2013). If the decision is made to keep the plastic covering on the greenhouse for the storm, close louvers, vents, doors, and other openings. Tape up any holes in the covering. Roll down any open side walls and secure the plastic (Roos 2008). Consider placing something in front of the greenhouse doors to reduce uplift and prevent wind from blowing the door open (Paul 2013). For air-inflated greenhouses, open the blower intake valve to slightly increase the inflation pressure and make sure the plastic is secure. This will lessen the rippling of plastic in windy conditions. Whether the greenhouse covering will be removed or retained in place, in either case, turn off fans and tape shutters to prevent winds from entering the structure and stow away equipment and materials that could be damaged if exposed to wind or rain (Hochmuth and Laughlin 2025).

Preparing the Farm

Conditions outside of the greenhouse, including flooding, windblown debris, and power loss, can also contribute to greenhouse storm damage. Prepare the farm by checking drainage infrastructure to make sure it is in good condition. Use sandbags if needed to prevent water intrusion into the greenhouse and other structures (Yu and Campbell 2024). Stow away items that could become windborne projectiles and secure tractors and other equipment and supplies (Roos 2008). Purchase and store adequate fuel to run heaters, fans, blowers, pumps, etc. through the duration of the storm at a minimum. Fill containers with water for use in irrigating greenhouse crops after the storm, in case of power loss and inability to pump water (Roos 2008).

Preparing Crops

Under normal conditions, greenhouse crops are cultivated with attention to proper irrigation and protection from pests, wind, sun, and other environmental factors. In the event of a storm, it may be necessary to relocate sensitive plants to a more secure location, and if possible, harvest crops in advance of the storm. For crops with fruits that tend to split with excess water, such as tomatoes and melons, harvest is especially important (Roos 2008). Similarly, crops that will become unsellable with wind damage, such as cut flowers, may be harvested pre-storm (Roos 2008). Consider applying fungicides to crops preventatively, to reduce transmission of disease post-storm. Do not try to make adjustments during the storm (Paul 2013). Complete preparations well before the storm, so that workers can have time to prepare their own homes and families.

After the storm

After the storm, focus shifts to damage documentation and recovery, with safety as the first priority. Inspect the greenhouse and surroundings for safety concerns, including downed power lines, before bringing employees back to work (Vann undated). Immediately gather pre- and post-storm documentation, including photographs and videos, to use in filing insurance claims and applying for other forms of recovery assistance. Assess damage to greenhouse structures and crops. As soon as possible after documenting post-storm damage and filing claims, restore any structural damage. By prioritizing structural repairs, the length of time crops/plants remain in uncontrolled environmental conditions will be shortened (Yu and Campbell 2024). While making repairs, keep a record of the costs and actions taken, as these records may be needed to apply for recovery assistance (Yu and Campbell 2024).

With structural repairs completed or underway, begin restoring normal operations within the structures, tending to affected crops, addressing flooding, and monitoring crops for latent issues. Consider pulling a temporary shade material over exposed crops to protect them until greenhouse covers can be replaced (Hochmuth and Laughlin 2025). If the greenhouse remains covered, open ventilation shutters and allow the pressure to return to normal. Keeping the greenhouse inflated for too long can stretch the plastic (Paul 2013). Similarly, keeping the greenhouse unventilated for too long can damage the crops inside (Roos 2008). Restore affected crops by pruning damaged portions and replanting when needed. Repair any damage to the storm drainage system and remove standing water from fields (Vann undated). Be aware that flood waters may contain contaminants, such as human or animal waste, pesticides, petroleum products, or other chemicals. Crops in flooded areas are considered contaminated and should not be harvested (Roos 2008). Monitor crops for damage within the year after the storm, paying special attention to crop nutrition, irrigation, and pests/diseases. Continue documenting plant health over time, as affected crops may take time to exhibit symptoms. Wounded plants may be affected by pests or diseases over the months following a disaster, and the pest/disease may then spread to other crops. Close monitoring will be key to both risk management and documentation of damage (Yu and Campbell 2024).

Improving structural resilience

With the risk of hurricanes in Florida, consider which steps make most sense in your operation to reduce the cost of recovery in future years. Examples are provided below regarding constructing and siting new structures and retrofitting existing structures and surroundings.

When building a new structure, consider the forces that will be acting upon it and the cost of remedying structural damage. For example, extreme winds can cause substantial damage to homes and other structures (NOAA 2025). Consider the risk of extreme winds, the potential for damage to the structure, costs of repairing or replacing the damaged structure, costs of preparing for and recovering from the storm, and other factors. Building low-cost, simple greenhouse structures that allow for quick removal of the plastic film and even disassembly of the frame provide greater resilience against extreme weather and minimize the risk of structural damage. However, growers who invest in reinforced structures that can weather less-damaging storms may be able to lessen the labor and other costs associated with storm preparation and recovery, with the understanding that in extreme conditions, more costly repairs or replacement may be needed.

When siting new structures, choose a location with lower expected winds and minimal flood risk. If the area is prone to flooding, the greenhouse should be elevated during construction.

If retaining existing structures, consider fortifying the structure and using strong, high-quality plastic film. Adding extra trusses and bracing and reinforcing glazing materials can strengthen the structure. Additionally, to prevent plastic from lifting, some growers have added straps that run over the bows and attach with cables to the ground posts (Callahan 2024). The quality of plastic films is another crucial factor. Low-quality plastic films are more likely to tear, degrade quickly under UV exposure, or fail during high winds.

Given the costs of plastic/shadecloth removal and replacement, consider a retrofit or new structure wherein structural coverings can be more easily removed or rolled back and stowed.

Adding passive ventilation capacity is recommended for increasing the resilience of greenhouse operations, especially during power outages or other situations where mechanical ventilation/cooling fails. For effective greenhouse ventilation, the total vent area should be at least 15-20% of the greenhouse’s floor space. A minimum of 30 Air Changes per Hour (ACH) is recommended. A 60 ACH is ideal for hot and sunny conditions.

Consider planting trees or other vegetation or installing fencing to serve as windbreaks (Dooley 2025). Windbreaks should be placed at a distance of 10 to 15 times their height from the greenhouse.

Conclusion

Hurricane damage to greenhouse structures is not always predictable and can be significantly impactful. With the uncertainty and risk, greenhouse growers across Florida can and are taking steps to protect their operations and preparing now to recover from future storms.

Additional Resources/ For Further Reading

• UF/IFAS Disaster Preparation & Recovery. https://disaster.ifas.ufl.edu/
• USDA Climate Hubs: Hurricane Preparation and Recovery Guides for Florida Producers. https://www.climatehubs.usda.gov/hubs/southeast/hurricane-preparation-and-recovery-guides-florida-producers

References

Bartok, John W., Jr. 2015. “Reducing storm damage to your greenhouses.” University of Connecticut Extension News and Publications. Last modified January 31. https://publications.extension.uconn.edu/2015/01/31/reducing-storm-damage-to-your-greenhouses/.

Callahan, C. 2024. “A guide to preparing high tunnels for extreme weather.” UVM Extension Ag Engineering. Last modified August 13. https://blog.uvm.edu/cwcallah/2024/08/13/a-guide-to-preparing-high-tunnels-for-extreme-weather/.

Dooley, Traci. 2025. “How to prepare your greenhouse for severe spring weather.” CEAg World, March 27, 2025. https://www.ceagworld.com/greenhouse-produce/how-to-prepare-your-greenhouse-for-severe-spring-weather/?utm_medium=ceaggpnewsletter&utm_source=omeda&utm_campaign=2504&oly_enc_id=5245D9821912H5Y

Guth, Douglas. 2025. “Keeping your greenhouse covered.” Greenhouse Management, May 2025, pp. 28-29. https://www.greenhousemag.com/magazine/may-2025/

Hochmuth, Robert C. & Laughlin, Wanda. 2025. “Preparing greenhouses for storms with high winds.” UF/IFAS Extension Duval County Newsletter.

Humphrey, Craig. 2010. “Building codes and greenhouses.” State of the Industry Report. Greenhouse Management, July 26, 2010. https://www.greenhousemag.com/article/gmpro-0710-building-codes-greenhouses-state-of-industry/

Mills, Emily. 2025. “Resilience through catastrophe.” Greenhouse Management, May 2025, pp. 20-23. https://www.greenhousemag.com/magazine/may-2025/

Mullins, C. undated. “Considerations with high tunnels/greenhouses prior to a hurricane.” Virginia Cooperative Extension. Accessed 3/21/25. https://www.ext.vsu.edu/storm-preparedness/2018/9/11/considerations-with-high-tunnelsgreenhouses-prior-to-a-hurricane.

NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology, US Department of Commerce). 2022. “Understanding building codes.” https://www.nist.gov/buildings-construction/understanding-building-codes.

NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, US Department of Commerce). 2025. “Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.” Accessed 4-28-25. https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/aboutsshws.php

Paul, Skip. 2013. “Preparing your greenhouses for a hurricane.” Umass Extension Vegetable Program. Last modified January. https://ag.umass.edu/vegetable/fact-sheets/preparing-your-greenhouses-for-hurricane.

Roos, D. 2008. “Hurricane preparedness for producers of horticultural crops.” North Carolina State Extension, Growing Small Farms. Last modified September 4. https://growingsmallfarms.ces.ncsu.edu/growingsmallfarms-hurricanes/.

USDA Southeast Climate Hub. 2021. “Hurricane Preparation and Recovery Guides for Florida Producers.” Accessed 3/21/25. https://www.climatehubs.usda.gov/hubs/southeast/hurricane-preparation-and-recovery-guides-florida-producers.

USDA Risk Management Agency. 2025. “Hurricane Insurance Protection – Wind Index.” Accessed 2/4/25. https://www.rma.usda.gov/about-crop-insurance/highlighted-initiatives-plans/hurricane-insurance-protection-wind-index.

Vann, M. 2019. “Hurricane Preparedness – Tobacco.” North Carolina State Extension. Tobacco Growers Information. Last modified September 3. https://tobacco.ces.ncsu.edu/2019/09/hurricane-preparedness-tobacco-2/.

Yu, P. and Campbell, J. 2024. “Hurricane and storm damage to greenhouse and greenhouse crops.” Temporary publication, University of Georgia Extension. Last modified October 23. https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=TP120.