Shade nets are made from lightweight knitted polythene fabric that provides people and plants with protection from the sun. Shade cloth fabric is available in densities ranging from 50% to 90% to suit the unique needs of different types of plants, flowers and crops. It can be used with greenhouses, hoop structures and in field applications. Additional uses include fences, windscreens and privacy barriers. Shade material is rot and mildew resistant, does not become brittle and is water permeable. It offers superior ventilation, improves light diffusion and keeps greenhouses cooler. As a result, shade cloth can help to lower energy costs by reducing the need to run fans as often in the warmer months. Installing shade net is quick and easy as is taking it down during the off-peak season.

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Reflective shade and how is it beneficial in a greenhouse

Reflective shade is beneficial since it helps to create an optimum growing climate because it reflects the sun's radiation rather than absorbing it. It assists in controlling the light, temperature and humidity balance. Reflective shade screens are also energy-saving. Excellent climate characteristics include low daytime temperature due to maximum reflection and high energy savings at night, which keeps crop temperature close to ambient.

Difference between standard shade net and reflective shade nets

Standard shade net is an affordable, extremely durable means of protecting plants and crops from direct sunlight. Shade net is placed on the exterior roof of a greenhouse, cold frame or high tunnel where it blocks a percentage of light from penetrating the building, hence keeping plants more comfortable. This type of shade material is appropriate for general gardening, farming and greenhouse applications and is widely used in the commercial farming and gardening industry.

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Recommended shade Net Material to use

Shade nets are of various materials and what to use depends on the type of your crop. The shade materials help in protecting plants, pets, livestock and people from direct sunlight and also works as a windscreen. Depending on the climatic conditions also, growers use 50% and 60% density in colder areas while in hotter areas, they use 70% to 80%. Many farmers find that using a high-density shade on roofs and a lower density shade on walls is a good method for creating ideal shade conditions. Farmers should check with their local Agricultural Extension office to determine the shade cloth density that is appropriate for both the climate and plant variety.

Why shade percentage is important

The density of the shade is determined by the amount of the light blocked by the shade. For instance, the definition of 80% shade is that only 20% of light passes through it. Vegetables require a shade percentage of between 30 and 50 %.

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Advantages of shade net:

  • It is easy to wash
  • Do not get Decay
  • Nets are easy to carry and easy to install
  • Easy to relocate
  • A shade percentage of 30-50% is ideal for vegetables and flowers.
  • They are ideal for gardens, plant nurseries, home terrace gardening.
  • Minimizes plant hassle and wind pressures to avoid damage to plants, enhances photosynthesis to stimulate plant growth.
  • Conserves water
  • Protects plants from pests and diseases

If you can afford green houses, think shade nets and you will save yourself a fortune.