Are Walipini Underground Greenhouses Effective in the UK Climate?
Exploring the Potential of Walipinis in the UK's Northern Climate
The concept of Walipinis, earth-sheltered greenhouses originating from the Aymaran language of Bolivia, has been gaining attention in the UK as a potential solution for extending the growing season in colder regions[1][3]. However, the effectiveness of Walipinis in the UK's northern climate, particularly in areas with longitudes between 50-60 degrees north, remains a topic of debate[2].
Walipinis are designed to leverage the earth's natural insulation, creating a stable, warm environment suitable for growing food even during winter. This is achieved by constructing a hole in the ground, around 2 meters deep, and covering it with a transparent roof to maximize sunlight and retain heat[4].
In practice, maintaining a Walipini in the UK requires careful consideration. Preventing flooding and adding thermal mass, such as rock walls, for additional heat retention are crucial steps to ensure optimal performance in wet or variable UK conditions[5].
One of the key features of a Walipini is the heat generated by the manure in its growing area. In a traditional pineapple pit, for example, 15 tonnes of fresh horse manure were kept in the outer troughs, providing warmth to the central trough where the pineapples were grown[6]. This heat passed through small gaps at the bottom of the wall, warming the soil and the growing area[7].
However, the effectiveness of this method in the UK's northern climate is questionable due to extreme seasonal differences in the angle of the sun, which may result in insufficient light for plant photosynthesis[8]. This is evident in a recent image provided, showing vegetation that does not appear lush[9].
Despite these challenges, users in the UK have reported success with Walipinis. For instance, some have started crops such as potatoes as early as March, indicating an extended growing season[2]. However, a speaker expresses doubt about the widespread applicability of Walipinis in the UK, citing a lack of scientific research or peer-reviewed evidence to support their effectiveness[10].
In conclusion, while Walipinis hold promise for extending the growing season in the UK's northern climate, their practical implementation requires careful consideration and a thorough understanding of the unique challenges posed by the UK's weather conditions.
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- Incorporating home-and-garden projects like Walipinis garden houses in the UK's northern climate could potentially revolutionize the lifestyle of many residents, offering opportunities for year-round gardening.
- To maximize the efficiency of a Walipini, one might consider adjusting the home-and-garden practices, such as incorporating British-adapted plant varieties and optimizing the use of thermal mass, to overcome the challenges posed by the UK's seasonal weather conditions.
