In agriculture, protecting and enhancing crops is not a luxury: it's a necessity that makes the difference between an ordinary season and an excellent one. plastics and netting for agriculture A more stable environment is created, risks are reduced, and efficiency is gained throughout the entire production cycle.
This guide answers common questions: What types exist, what are they used for, and how to choose the right one?Furthermore, it integrates practical solutions with real-world examples of use in greenhouses. orchards in the countrysideNurseries and specialized farms, as well as regular services (custom cutting, advice, installation) offered by many suppliers.
Greenhouse plastics
Decking plastic is a technical material, usually made of polyethyleneDesigned to roof and close the sides of the greenhouse, creating a microclimate that promotes plant growth, dampens the wind, and better manages humidity and temperature.
Main types of plastics used in horticulture
Depending on the objective, different sheets and configurations are used. The most common In commercial operations they are:
- Cover plastic: intended for the greenhouse roof and walls. It is manufactured with greater thickness to withstand sun, wind and hailIn intensive agriculture, thicknesses equivalent to 800 gauges (200 microns) are being used due to their strength and insulation.
- Plastic for soil disinfection (solarization): thinner film that harnesses solar heat to control weeds, soil insects and pathogens without herbicides or fumigants, reducing the chemical load of the plot.
- Double roof system: two layers separated by air that function as additional thermal barrierIt improves insulation, limits nighttime losses and reduces energy consumption in technologically advanced greenhouses.
Choosing one or the other depends on the crop, the climate zoning, the orientation of the ship and, of course, the budget available for the initial investment.
Recommended thickness: gauges and microns
Thickness or gauge affects the durability and insulationIn high-performance covers, the standard is 200 microns (800 gauge), which offers a good balance between mechanical strength and thermal behavior under demanding conditions.
Useful life, warranties and wear factors
A plastic cover usually includes 3 year minimum warrantyFrom there, the actual duration depends on the incident radiation, maintenance, and handling, which can generate microplastics in agricultural soils. For example in northern areas Peninsular locations, with less sunlight, tend to have a longer lifespan compared to sunnier southern locations.
Thermal film vs. non-thermal film
Thermal plastics incorporate additives that They reduce nighttime heat loss.stabilizing the internal temperature. Non-thermal films, on the other hand, exhibit greater temperature fluctuations depending on the external conditions, something to consider in sensitive crops or on cold nights.
Transmission and diffusion of light
The amount and direction of light influences the photosynthesis and vigorIn areas of high radiation, diffusing films prevent burns, distribute light better and generate greater uniformity of growth, especially in summer cycles.
UV protection and stability
It's worth investing in films with UV stabilizers to protect the cover from aging and, at the same time, filter out harmful bands for the crop. This combination extends the lifespan and maintains the optimal performance of the system.
Proper installation: practical tips
Before placing, check the structure: it must be clean and without sharp edges that cut the film. It is vital to tension it evenly, avoid pockets where water accumulates, and use specific profiles or staples that hold without damaging it.
Another detail that makes a difference is choosing windless days and with a moderate temperature for handling the material, in addition to an annual maintenance plan that includes cleaning and repair of minor breaks.
Measurements, rolls and custom cutting
There are distributors that serve plastic cut to size From large-format rolls, adjusting the exact length to each project. The advantage is paying only for what you need, minimizing waste and ensuring a perfect fit in the greenhouse.
Agricultural netting: types, uses and materials
The term “agricultural mesh” includes technical plastic fabrics of polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP)UV stabilized and designed to filter light, stop insects, slow the wind or support plants, depending on the function.
Weed control fabrics (ground fabrics)
They are geotextiles, known as anti weed tights, manufactured mainly in high-density polypropylene that block light from reaching the soil, making it difficult for weeds to germinate, while still allowing water and air to pass through.
Its lifespan, thanks to UV stabilization and weather resistance, can reach 5 years the poor Depending on conditions and maintenance. It is an effective solution for reducing herbicide use in orchards, nurseries, planting corridors, and landscaping projects.
Its advantages include: efficient weed control Chemical-free, saves labor on weeding, and improves drainage by allowing water to percolate. Installation is simple and maintenance is minimal.
shade nets
These mesh screens control incident radiation to prevent heat stress and regulate brightness. Manufactured in stabilized HDPEThey are available in different percentages of shade depending on the crop and location.
- 50% shade: suitable for species that tolerate moderate light, allowing approximately half of the radiation to pass through.
- 65% shade: intermediate protection for crops more sensitive to excess sun.
- 80% shade: for high shading needs or to create rest areas in gardens and public spaces.
El color It also matters: black mesh absorbs and blocks more radiation; white reflects and diffuses light better, reducing heat; green blends in well with landscaped environments. Some references mention Grey and white options available upon request.
A quality shade net typically lasts between 5 and 7 yearsIts applications range from greenhouses and nurseries to parking areas, terraces or patios, and even temporary protection of works or materials.
Some suppliers offer sales retail and wholesaleThey offer advice on selecting the percentage of shade, as well as installation and technical support services. It's not uncommon to find catalogs with competitive prices and manufacturer references.
Mosquito nets or insect screens
Their goal is to create a physical barrier against pests without blocking light and air. In horticultural crops, it works very well against whiteflies, thrips, aphids, and other key pests.
The choice is made based on mesh density and size. Common configurations include: 10 × 16 and 10 × 20 for sensitive crops and climates with high pest pressure, as well as other more open ones such as 6 × 9 when ventilation is prioritized.
They are usually manufactured in black or whiteThey can be combined with shade netting to fine-tune the microclimate and improve plant comfort. They are durable, UV-stabilized materials that are easy to install on various structures.
Other frequently used meshes
Depending on the need, it is advisable to consider mesh. bird repellent (widely used in vineyards and orchards), anti-hail (they cushion the impact of hail and heavy rain), concealment (for privacy and protection from wind and dust), of support to guide the growth of solanaceous and cucurbitaceous plants, or nets of harvest in olive groves and nuts.
In the accessories section, there are accessories (clips, turnbuckles, stakes and hooks) that ensure a firm and durable installation, and solutions for reflective floor to redirect light to the canopy in crops where uniformity and fruit quality depend on better lower illumination.
Agricultural blankets and other technical plastics
Outside the nets, there are blankets and films with specific functions. Thermal blankets protect against cold and frostretaining nighttime heat; the irrigation blankets They help distribute water more evenly and reduce evaporation.
They are completed with reinforced tarpaulins to cover materials, polyethylene films for waterproofing and protection, pond liners high puncture resistance and packaging plastics intended for logistics and presentation.
Typical services of the sector
It is common to find stores in the market that offer cut to size, in-store pickup or home delivery, technical support during installation, and even installation by specialized personnel. Many offer online catalogs and customer service by phone or messaging.
Some companies are focused on technical plastic materials (methacrylate, PE, PS, PVC) with direct sale and industrial cutting service for agriculture, gardening, construction and signage, which speeds up availability and order customization.
Example of a plasticized solution for side panels
Among the specific solutions, there are plasticized meshes designed for protect sides and roof windows from the greenhouse. Furthermore, in fruit trees like cherries, they help reduce the fruit's contact with rain, and in vineyard They can promote earliness by improving the microclimate of the bunch.
Advantages of using netting and greenhouses with plastic
The first big gain is the protection against pestsInsect netting allows for fewer treatments and facilitates a cleaner IPM strategy. This increases commercial quality and operator safety.
The second pillar is the microclimate controlAdjusting temperature, humidity, and ventilation is key in hot summers or at the end of the growing cycle, when the plant suffers more from environmental stress.
Thirdly, good light management (transmission and diffusion) optimizes photosynthesis and reduces leaf and fruit burns. This results in greater uniformity and size.
Adding all of the above together, increases performance and the top-quality ratio. With well-chosen, UV-stabilized materials and basic maintenance, durability is typically 5 years or more depending on the type of mesh.
Applications by crop type
In vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, or eggplants, insect netting is a lifeline against pests. whitefly, thrips or tutaAnd the shading helps during the weeks with the highest radiation.
In fruit trees and berries (strawberry cultivation(raspberry, blueberry), insect barriers and bird protection are crucial for maintaining quality and presentation.
In cut flowers and ornamentals, netting allows preserve the aesthetic valuepreventing chafing, sunburn and insect damage, which is vital for selling fresh produce.
In crops tropical (mango, avocado, papaya), it is advisable to reinforce wind and light control, maintaining adequate ventilation and reducing heat stress.
Areas of Spain where these solutions are key
En Almeria and MurciaAs world leaders in greenhouse horticulture, insect netting and shade netting are part of the "basic equipment" to guarantee the required level of quality for export.
At Valencian CommunityIn areas with a significant citrus and fruit crop industry, bird and insect netting are commonly used to curb losses and improve plant health.
En Canary IslandsSubtropical crops (e.g., bananas and mangoes) benefit from protection from wind and calibrated shading due to high radiation.
En CataloniaThe specialization in strawberries and flowers drives the use of mesh to preserve the commercial finish, maintaining homogeneous and defect-free pieces.
How to choose well: practical criteria
Start with your reality: common pests, light requirements depending on the crop and local climate. With that in mind, adjust the mesh density, shade percentage, or film type.
If in doubt, seek help. technical adviceChoosing between 10x16 mesh and 10x20 mesh, or 50% versus 80% shade, affects ventilation and photosynthesis. Investing in quality with UV stabilization and durability certification usually pays off.
Do not neglect the maintenanceRegular inspections, timely repairs, and cleaning extend the lifespan of the netting. Furthermore, during demanding seasons, damaged netting opens the door to pests and losses from hail or wind.
Mesh houses: comprehensive protection
A growing trend is the mesh houseCombining insect repellent and shade for comprehensive environmental control. Among its advantages are reduced evaporation and protection against... heavy rain, hail and gusts and more effective integrated pest management.
From an economic and environmental standpoint, these solutions improve competitiveness and footprintThey allow entry into demanding markets, reduce pesticides and water consumption, and generate employment in the installation and maintenance chain.
Materials: polyethylene vs. polypropylene
El polyethylene (PE) It stands out for its flexibility, weather resistance and good performance against sun and wear, which is why it is widely used in roofing films and shade netting.
El polypropylene (PP) It is somewhat more rigid and structural, ideal for weed control ground coverings and applications requiring dimensional stability. Both materials are lightweight, easy to install, and effective for several seasons.
In manufacturing, the following are applied: UV treatments and additives that extend the product's lifespan, key to ensuring the investment is easily recouped over the years.
Installation and good assembly habits
Whether mesh or film, the assembly requires suitable materials: clips, turnbuckles, stakes and hooks Designed for the format and workload. This ensures it won't break due to tension or wind.
The mesh should be well stretched However, do not overdo it, as excessive tension can shorten the lifespan. For ground mesh, it is important to anchor it around the perimeter and at intermediate points to prevent it from lifting.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions Respecting the installation direction, overlaps, and anchor points is essential. Proper installation maximizes benefits and prevents problems during storms.
Greenhouses and nurseries: how do they differ?
Although sometimes used as synonyms, the greenhouse It focuses on full-cycle production under cover, while the nursery It prioritizes the propagation and development of young plants for later transplanting. This purpose defines the type of mesh/plastic and the degree of environmental control required.
Purchase, pricing and availability
In the professional and retail channels, it is common to find options for retail or wholesaleAvailable stock and savings/discount information on specific product lines. Online catalogs make it easy to compare features and request custom cuts.
When evaluating suppliers, it is helpful to confirm after sales services (advice, technical support, installation) and the clarity of the specifications (microns, shade percentages, mesh densities, UV additives), because it saves time and avoids purchasing errors.
With all of the above, the decision becomes simpler: by combining suitable cover plastics With the ideal mesh for your pest pressure, radiation level and quality objective, it is possible to stabilize the microclimate, reduce treatment costs and improve harvest results, both in volume and commercial category.
