I use low tunnels on some of my watermelon and cantaloupe. I use #9(3/16") wire for the hoops, they are placed every 6'. I bought the hoops pre-formed from Marvels Plastic. I cover the hoops with 76" clear perforated plastic and cover the edges and ends with dirt. The extra heat and wind protection early make about a 2-3 week difference in days to harvest. I leave the tunnels on till the first blossoms set then remove them. The dirt on the edges pulls the plastic tight so there is no need for a purlin. We get very strong winds here on the front range and the tunnels have survived well. With the perforated plastic I have seen very little cooking of the plants and don't open the ends because if the wind gets under the cover it's headed to the next county in the blink of an eye.
Marcus
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