Crop netting

Types of Crop Netting

Crop netting can be found in a variety of structures. They include:

• Anti-Insect Netting

  This is close-knit crop netting that is meant to protect crops from pests. It reduces the use of pesticides in farming because it helps in controlling the insects. It is used widely in vegetable and fruit production.

• Bird Netting

  Bird netting is used to control birds who like feasting on fruits like grapes and cherries. It is made from nylon or polyethylene. It is durable and resistant to UV rays. This type of netting helps to ensure farmers do not lose a huge percentage of their crop to bird infestation.

• Shade Netting

  Shade netting is used to control the amount of sunlight that goes to crops. This helps in regions with hot weather. It helps reduce the amount of heat that reaches the plants hence preventing withering. It also helps in reducing the amount of water that is lost through evaporation.

• Netting Protection from Fruits

  Netting protection from fruits precludes the fruits from pests and birds. It is mainly structured for trees and bushes that have fruits. Some of the fruits include berries, apples, and cherries. Besides protection, it also enhances the quality and has minimal chances of spoilage.

• Vegetable Netting

  It is another type of crop netting. It is used for protecting vegetables from pests like aphids, caterpillars, and beetles. Vegetable netting is used for leafy greens, broccoli, and carrots. It is also used to prolong the life of the vegetables by protecting them from creatures that would oxidize them.

• Row Cover

  Row cover is made of thin fabric. It provides protection against cold temperatures and pests. It is used widely in the production of crops before and during the growing season. Row cover is usually used for early crops or late crops that need frost protection.

• Greenhouse Film

  Greenhouse film is a type of cover used on greenhouses. It is designed to allow maximum sunlight while retaining heat. This helps create a controlled growing environment. It is also useful in extending the growing season in cooler regions.

• Netting for Pollination

  There are some types of crop netting that are used to assist in pollination. They are usually used in greenhouses or areas where pollinators are scarce. They are also used to attract bees and other insects to help with the transfer of pollen from one flower to another.

Features of Crop Netting

Crop nets come with various features. Here are some of them:

• Material

  Crop netting is usually made from polyethylene, nylon, or other plastics. These materials offer durability and flexibility. The choice of material is largely dependent on the specific application and the type of pests that are being targeted.

• Mesh Size

  The mesh size or the spacing between the threads in crop netting is important. It is because a finer mesh can offer better protection from smaller pests like aphids and whiteflies. On the other hand, larger mesh is suitable for bigger insects like grasshoppers or beetles. It also allows for easier pollination by bees and other insects.

• UV Resistance

  Since crop netting is to be used outdoors, it needs to be resistant to the harmful UV rays of the sun. This ensures the netting remains strong and effective for a longer period. Most crop netting is manufactured with added UV stabilization features.

• Durability and Longevity

  Crop netting is strong and can be used for several seasons. Some types are strong enough to withstand harsh weather conditions. They are also resistant to tearing from animal or bird interference.

• Reusability

  Netting for crops can be reused for many growing seasons, which helps to minimize the cost over time. With proper care and storage after use, crop netting can be employed multiple times. This allows for ongoing pest control with minimal input.

• Easy Installation

  Most crop netting is light in weight. This enables easy transportation and installation over crops. It can easily be draped over plants, laid down, or supported by structures like hoops or frames.

• Breathability

  Even though it offers protection, crop netting is breathable. It allows air, water, and nutrients to reach the plants. This is especially important for plants that still need to grow and produce fruits or vegetables.

• Flexibility

  Crop netting is versatile in application. It can be used in home gardens, commercial farms, or greenhouse settings. Its flexibility allows it to be molded to different shapes and sizes to suit various types of crops.

How to Choose Crop Netting

When buying crop netting for sale, there are important factors to consider. Here is a list:

• Type of pest

  It is important to consider the type of pest that is to be controlled during crop netting production. Fine mesh netting is used for small insects like aphids, whiteflies, and thrips. Larger mesh is suitable for bigger insects like grasshoppers and beetles.

• Crop type

  Different crops have different requirements. Some crops are pollination-dependent while others are not. It is because of this that there are nettings with holes that allow pollinators like bees to pass through while keeping other pests out.

• Climate and weather conditions

  This calls for considering the climatic conditions of the region where the crops are grown. For instance, in hot areas, shade netting may be necessary to reduce heat exposure. In regions that are mostly cold, frost protection netting would come in handy.

• Netting density

  Netting density is one of the major considerations when buying crop netting for sale. How pest control efficiency is affected is dependent on the density of the netting. Standard densities for fruit and vegetable crops are between 3 to 5 mesh per centimeter. This effectively prevents pest entry while allowing beneficial insects and air through.

• Durability

  Crop netting is to be used repeatedly over multiple growing seasons. Buyers should look for netting that is made from durable materials like nylon or polyethylene. They should also be UV-resistant to ensure they do not degrade over time.

• Ease of use

  Netting should be light in weight so that it can be easily spread over crops. It should also be easy to remove, store, and transport without causing damage to the netting.

• Certain characteristics of netting

  Netting should be translucent to allow sunlight, air, and water to penetrate crops. It should also be strong enough to withstand animal-related tears or holes in it. There should be a balance between the mesh size and netting density to ensure optimal pest control while allowing beneficial insects to pass through.

• Budget

  Last but not least, buyers should consider the costs associated with the netting they settle for. This includes the initial purchase cost, netting maintenance, and replacement expenses if required.

Benefits of Crop Netting

Crop net has some benefits. They include:

• Pest Control

  Crop netting is primarily used in preventing insects and pests from reaching crops. It greatly reduces the need for chemical pesticides. This is because it physically prevents pests from damaging crops. This leads to healthier plants with higher yields and less pest-related damage.

• Protection from Birds and Other Animals

  Crop netting also protects crops from birds and larger animals that may be tempted to eat the fruits or seeds. It is especially useful for delicate fruits like berries, grapes, or tree fruits. These fruits are easily damaged by pecking or nibbling from birds or rodents.

• Frost and Harsh Weather Protection

  Certain types of crop netting, like row covers, are used to protect crops from late spring frosts. This gives plants a chance to grow earlier in the season without being killed by frost. Netting is also used to protect crops from strong winds, hail, and heavy rains. These could either destroy the plants or uproot them completely.

• Pollination

  Some types of crop netting are designed to help with pollination. They do this by allowing only certain insects to enter while keeping pests out. This is beneficial in areas where natural pollinator populations are low.

• Organic Farming

  Crop netting is ideal for organic farms where chemical pest control is not allowed. It allows organic farmers to protect their crops effectively. This is without the use of synthetic chemicals to preserve the crops’ organic status.

• Cost-Effectiveness

  Even though there is some initial costs for crop netting, they are reusable for several seasons. This makes them cost-effective in the long run. There is reduced labor and reduced loss of crops, hence providing savings over time.

• Environmentally Friendly

  Crop netting is an environmentally friendly way to manage pests. This is because it does not involve the use of chemicals. It helps to maintain biodiversity in the farming area by allowing beneficial insects to pass through.

• Extended Growing Season

  By protecting plants from frost and pests, crop netting allows for an extended growing season. This enables gardeners and farmers to grow a wider variety of crops or have multiple planting cycles.

Q and A

Can crop netting be reused in multiple growing seasons?

Yes, crop netting can be reused for multiple growing seasons. However, the level of reusability depends on the type of netting and how well it is maintained after each use. Durable netting like polyethylene or nylon is generally designed to last for several years. There is usually a tendency for netting to degrade over time due to exposure to UV rays. These are especially if it is not treated with UV stabilizers. One way to improve the longevity of the netting is by storing it in a cool, dry, and dark place after each season ends.

What is the right way to store crop netting when it is not in use?

Storing crop netting properly helps improve its durability. Clean the netting before storage. Remove any debris, soil, or plant material. This can either be done with water or by gently shaking it off. Allow the netting to dry completely. Don’t store wet netting as moisture tends to promote mold and mildew growth. Roll or fold the netting carefully. It should be done to avoid tangles or tears. Store the netting in a cool, dry, and dark location. Avoid direct sunlight as UV radiation can degrade the material over time.

How does crop netting affect pollinators like bees?

Crop netting is designed to allow beneficial insects like bees to pass through while keeping harmful pests out. Some types of crop netting have larger mesh sizes or specific openings to ensure that pollinators can easily access crops to do their work. This is particularly important for fruit trees and berry bushes. It has a positive impact on fruit set and yields. Buyers should choose pollinator-friendly netting.

Does crop netting have any environmental impact?

Crop netting is a more sustainable pest control method as it reduces the need for chemical pesticides. These pesticides can have negative effects on soil health, water quality, and non-target species. If not properly disposed of or recycled, it can contribute to plastic pollution. Because plastic debris can harm wildlife and ecosystems. Some manufacturers offer biodegradable alternatives. They are made from materials like biodegradable polymers or natural fibers.

How do you secure crop netting to prevent it from blowing away?

There are a number of options for securing crop netting. Use ground stakes or garden anchors to hold the netting down at the corners and along the edges. Weigh down the edges of the netting with rocks, bricks, or other heavy objects. It will prevent the netting from moving due to wind. If the netting is draped over a frame or hoop structure, use clips or ties to attach the netting firmly. Taut and close to the frame to reduce movement. Bury the edges of the netting in soil to create a trench and secure it firmly. This is especially useful in very windy conditions.