Shade nets and insect-proof net houses give partial protection at a fraction of a greenhouse’s cost. They cut sun, wind and insects — but the fine mesh that keeps insects out also cuts airflow.
What the net changes
| Factor | Effect under the net |
|---|---|
| Sunlight | Reduced by the shade rating, typically 30–50 % |
| Temperature | Lower leaf temperature in sun; can be hotter than outside on still days under fine mesh |
| Humidity | Higher in dense crops with little airflow |
| Insects | Largely excluded — until a tear or open door |
| Rain | Usually passes through |
What to monitor
- Temperature and humidity inside and outside, so you see what the net is doing
- Soil moisture, accounting for rain through the net
- Pest pressure by camera or scouting, because pests that get in multiply fast
Misting, extra shade screens and circulation fans can then be run on the readings rather than a clock.