Italy: Greenhouse nets support pollinators and increase production

Arrigoni, which manufactures crop defence nets, recently introduced new products. Two business owners talk about the new Prisma range by Arrigoni.

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How to combine the needs of a greenhouse production with the health of operators? How to favour the work of pollinator insects while at the same time increasing the number of production cycles?

Rosario Spataro, owner of a company specialising in the production of tomatoes and other vegetables, explains why he chose Prisma 30.

What precautions do you take for tomatoes in your area?
Up to a couple of years ago, I simply shaded the crops. Results weren't that good so much so that, when temperatures became too hot, it was unthinkable to produce anything. Last year, we introduced Prisma 30 nets by Arrigoni.

What have been the benefits?
We even extended production cycles, which was truly unthinkable as pollinator insects weren't doing their job, adult tomatoes had problems and operators just couldn't work. After installing Prisma 30, we extended production cycles and improved working conditions.

Have you noticed temperature differences?


Mr Marangoni, could you tell us a little about your company?
We own 20 hectares and specialise in the production of lamb's lettuce, fresh-cut spinach and watermelons.

What Arrigoni solutions have you chosen?
We had installed a few green-coloured shading nets but, just over a year ago, we installed Prisma 80. It was developed specifically for lamb's lettuce and spinach, with a white-coloured heat-reflecting screen and an LD additive for light diffusion.

What results have you obtained?
The purpose of the screen is to protect crops from sunlight and heat. Thanks to Prisma 80, temperatures are 3-4°C lower than with standard shading nets. In addition, plants are healthier and more vigorous, with crunchier leaves.