Shade Nets

Precision Light Management

In the high-altitude and equatorial regions of Kenya, solar radiation can be intense enough to scorch sensitive crops and dry out nursery beds in hours. Our Shade Nets act as a climate control system for your farm by blocking a specific percentage of sunlight.

While a 50% shade net is the industry standard for vegetable nurseries and leafy greens, higher percentages, such as 70% or 90%, are used for more sensitive ornamental plants, specialized seedling production, or non-agricultural cooling.

Controlling light intensity allows you to significantly reduce your crops' water requirements and ensure more uniform growth.

Knitted Strength and UV Durability

A common frustration for many farmers is a net that becomes brittle after just one season in the sun. Our nets are manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) infused with chemical UV stabilizers to prevent photo-oxidation.

We use a knitted lock-stitch construction rather than a traditional weave. This engineering choice is vital because it allows you to cut the net to size or repair small punctures without the entire structure unraveling. This durability makes them a long-term investment for any permanent nursery or greenhouse structure.

The "Mist Effect" and Ventilation

Beyond light management, these nets provide a crucial mechanical benefit during the rainy season. The mesh is designed to be fully permeable, breaking the kinetic energy of heavy tropical downpours into a fine mist. This mist effect protects delicate seedlings from physical damage and prevents surface soil crusting, which is a leading cause of poor germination.

It is important to note that higher shade percentages like 90% restrict airflow more than lighter nets. To avoid creating a heat tent that can stress your plants, we recommend installing high-percentage nets with at least 2 to 3 meters of clearance to allow for proper ventilation.

Choosing Your Color and Percentage

While Green Shade Nets are the most popular choice for general agriculture because they mimic natural forest canopy light, Black Shade Nets are often the most durable due to the natural UV-blocking properties of carbon black.

However, because black absorbs more heat, it is best used in well-ventilated areas. For most Kenyan farmers growing tomatoes, peppers, or leafy greens, the 50% Shade Net offers the best balance of light filtration and thermal management.

Available Variants & Pricing

IrriHub supplies shade nets in various densities to suit your specific crop and infrastructure requirements.

IrriHub provides reliable irrigation and farm systems for small and medium-scale farmers across Kenya. For help choosing the right shade percentage for your specific crop, reach out to us directly.

Call us: +254 729 717 881

Visit our store: Shubham Complex, Old Mombasa Rd.