Over the years, netting solutions in greenhouses have proven their worth. Growers increasingly recognize the benefits of this technique and are using it to protect their crops. Aside from effectively protecting crops, greenhouse netting also contributes to more sustainable cultivation. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about sustainable crop protection and food cultivation.
Netting solutions enable growers to effectively manage pests. By creating a physical barrier, harmful insects and other pests cannot reach the crops. This significantly reduces the risk of disease and pest outbreaks. Additionally, netting contributes to creating a controlled environment because it facilitates early pest detection and pest control.
One of the main advantages of greenhouse netting is that it drastically reduces pesticide usage. Pesticides tend to be harmful to the environment and can negatively impact biodiversity as well as the health of humans and animals. Growers can keep pets and pathogens out by using physical barriers, such as netting, without relying on chemical means. This leads to reduced costs as well as a cleaner, healthier environment and products free from chemical residues.
In addition, netting is a sustainable, long-term solution for crop protection. With normal use, the mesh can last 10 to 15 years and is thus a cost-effective investment for growers. The initial installation costs can be relatively high, but the long-term savings from reduced pesticide use and lower pest management costs make it a smart choice.
On top of that, it is a biodiversity-friendly solution. The habitat of beneficial insects and other animals is protected when pesticide use is reduced. This promotes biodiversity inside and outside the greenhouse.
Marcel Schulte, director of Holland Gaas
Choosing the right netting is not easy. What should you look for?
It's not easy to choose the right netting solution for your greenhouse because there are so many options nowadays, ranging from high-quality solutions to more budget-friendly alternatives. It's a true challenge to distinguish the differences in durability and the proven utility of the various netting products. It's not always immediately clear which solutions offer the best long-term value and which may fall short in quality or effectiveness.
The saying 'you get what you pay for' also applies to netting for greenhouses. That's not to say that the most expensive option is always the best one. It emphasizes the importance of well-informed choices. It's crucial that growers carefully evaluate the specifications, durability, and light- and ventilation reduction, as well as the expected lifespan of netting solutions. In addition, it can help to consult reviews, fellow growers, and experts before making a decision.
It's essential to consider which specific needs and challenges you want to address in your greenhouse. Not all netting is made the same way; some types are specially designed to keep certain pests out, while others focus on optimizing light entry or improving air circulation. Clearly defining what you expect from the netting solution facilitates the process of finding the right netting.
8 tips for choosing insect netting in a well-informed manner
- For which type of cultivation do you need an insect netting solution?
A skilled supplier knows which solutions best match your cultivation and can organize reference visits to fellow growers. - Which pests do you want to eliminate?
Pests often correlate with your cultivation, but the local situation can also be decisive. Having a clear idea of which pests you would like to combat facilitates choosing the right mesh size. - What is your ventilation need
Netting can affect the ventilation in your greenhouse. Which netting solution is most suitable for your specific cultivation and location depends on the type of netting and the ventilation capacity of your windows. Ventilation reduction calculation tools can easily calculate the impact of netting on your cultivation climate. It also considers the used wire thickness. The principles of Plant Empowerment (HNT) also influence your ventilation needs. - What limitation on light entry is acceptable?
Different netting systems (bag, accordion, filter system, etc.) differently limit light entry. There are even significant differences among the different systems. Your choice may be influenced by the degree of light loss that you are willing to accept. Often, netting suppliers have access to official measurements concerning the different netting systems from institutions such as TNO and TŰV. Be sure to ask for them! - What payback period is acceptable?
The choice for a certain type of netting may depend on your investment horizon. Type, lifespan & UV stability play an important role. For example, bag systems are generally more affordable, which is reflected in their lifespan compared to accordion systems. Smart 'Return on Investment' calculators can calculate your payback time. This ensures a well-informed choice! - What installation requirements apply?
Another consideration is the way a netting system is installed. For new greenhouses, this is less relevant, as there's no need to consider the existing cultivation. However, in the case of an existing greenhouse, this can play a significant role. Safe installation options from the inside or the outside can make a big difference. Should windows be opened or closed during the installation? When there is an existing cultivation, in warm months the latter is often not desirable for an extended time period. - How much maintenance does your system require?
Like any solution, netting also comes with certain maintenance instructions. Depending on your choice, a certain amount of maintenance is needed. Bag systems tend to become dirty quite quickly, while accordion systems are often dirt-repellent. As not all bag systems are the same, further research is definitely recommended. - What are your financing wishes?
The return-on-investment period plays a big role in financing needs. Either you finance your investment yourself, or you attract external capital. In some locations, As-a-Service netting systems are now available as an alternative. Here, you can often match the savings on your operational costs with a fixed monthly amount for a netting solution, including maintenance. This is worth considering!
Choose the right system
It requires a certain degree of knowledge and research to navigate the complex netting solutions market. By prioritizing quality, sustainability, and the specific needs of your crops, your investment can benefit the health and productivity of your crops. Moreover, it is financially beneficial in the long term. A careful selection process can significantly reduce the chance of disappointment and ensure the successful integration of mesh into your growing practices. Always be well informed about the different options.
Contributing to the transformation towards healthier and more environmentally friendly food production
In summary, using mesh solutions in greenhouses offers many benefits to growers. It contributes to the reduced use of harmful pesticides, makes pests manageable, supports biodiversity, and offers a sustainable solution for crop protection. As the world becomes increasingly aware of the need for more sustainable cultivation, netting solutions are at the forefront of the transformation towards healthier and more environmentally friendly food production.
For more information:
Holland Gaas 
Honderdland 30, 2676 LS
Maasdijk, the Netherlands
Tel.: +31 174 516 180
info@hollandgaas.nl
www.hollandgaas.nl