For three years, the Formule 1 Nantes-style tunnels have revolutionized the management of spring crops on our micro-farm. Designed as an economical and efficient solution in the face of a lack of greenhouses, they allow you to start outdoor crops very early. This idea, shared by Xavier Dubreucq, today proves essential for anticipating sowings as early as January/February. Resistant, durable and simple to set up, these tunnels have become a precious ally for diversified and early market garden production.

An ingenious response to the lack of greenhouses

Faced with the growing need to produce earlier, without however investing in expensive greenhouses, the “Formule 1” Nantes-style tunnels present themselves as a pragmatic solution. Inspired by an idea passed on by the agronomist-technician Xavier Dubreucq, these tunnels are designed to maximize heat and crop protection at the start of the season, while remaining simple and inexpensive to set up.

What are the advantages of Formule 1 tunnels?

A durable and reusable tool

Unlike classic tunnels (with strings or “500-hole” models), the Formule 1 is mounted with thick plastic (up to 200 microns, often from recovered greenhouse tarpaulins). This material, used only in spring, lasts up to 10, 15 or even 20 years. The initial investment is thus largely paid off over time.

Autonomy and time savings

8 cm ventilation holes drilled on the side of a Formule 1 tunnel

One of the great advantages lies in passive ventilation. No more manual openings and closings. Holes about 8 cm in diameter are made using a drill and a hole saw mounted in reverse — a tip to avoid damaging the plastic.

These regular perforations on the sides ensure optimal ventilation throughout the season.

Easy to install and adapt

Thanks to the shape-memory hoops, assembly is quick. You position one hoop below, one above (“sandwich” effect), thus avoiding the often long and tedious string system. In addition, in case of strong wind, you can secure the tunnels with sandbags, or even group several tunnels under a climate net to optimize hold and thermal effect.

Versatility of use

In addition to their use in the open field, Formule 1 tunnels can be used under greenhouse for the most sensitive crops as early as March. In this case, a single hoop is enough since there is no exposure to wind, and this allows valuable double protection at the start of the season.

Our tips for effective implementation

Formule 1 tunnels lined up at the start of spring on the micro-farm
Several tunnels grouped together gain better thermal inertia and stand up to wind more reliably.