Agricultural shade nets are an essential tool for modern farming. They help protect crops, seedlings, and livestock from excessive sunlight, wind, and harsh weather conditions. Farmers across Kenya are increasingly using shade nets to improve crop health, reduce water loss, and increase productivity.

If you are planning to install a nursery, greenhouse, or shade structure, understanding shade net GSM and shade percentage will help you choose the right net for your farm.

What is an Agricultural Shade Net?

An agricultural shade net is a knitted high-density polyethylene (HDPE) fabric designed to regulate sunlight reaching crops. These nets are commonly used in:

• Vegetable nurseries
• Greenhouse farming
• Livestock shade structures
• Tree seedling production
• Poultry houses
• Farm storage areas

Shade nets protect plants from excess heat, strong winds, and heavy sunlight, creating a more controlled growing environment.

Understanding GSM in Shade Nets

One of the most common terms farmers see when buying shade nets is GSM.

GSM means “Grams per Square Meter.”

It measures the weight and density of the shade net material.

Generally:

• Higher GSM = thicker and stronger shade net
• Lower GSM = lighter shade net

However, GSM alone does not determine how much sunlight the net blocks. The knitting pattern and thread thickness also affect shading.

Shade Net GSM and Shade Percentage Explained

Depending on the manufacturer, shade nets can have different shade percentages even at similar GSM levels.

For example, many agricultural shade nets in Kenya are rated as follows:

GSM	Shade Percentage	Best Use
70 GSM	55% Shade	Vegetable nurseries and young seedlings
90 GSM	70% Shade	Greenhouses and horticulture crops
120 GSM	85% Shade	Livestock shade and strong sun protection

This classification helps farmers choose the right level of protection for their crops.

Choosing the Right Shade Net for Your Farm

1. Shade Net for Vegetable Nurseries

Vegetable seedlings are delicate and require moderate protection from sunlight.

Recommended option:
70 GSM – 55% shade

This allows enough sunlight for plant growth while preventing excessive heat.

2. Shade Net for Greenhouses

Greenhouse crops such as tomatoes, capsicum, and strawberries benefit from controlled sunlight.

Recommended option:
90 GSM – 70% shade

This level helps regulate greenhouse temperature and improves crop health.

3. Shade Net for Livestock and Poultry

Livestock such as dairy cows and poultry require stronger shade protection.

Recommended option:
120 GSM – 85% shade

This provides maximum protection against strong sunlight and reduces heat stress.

Benefits of Using Agricultural Shade Nets

Farmers who install shade nets enjoy several advantages:

1. Protection from Excessive Sunlight

Shade nets regulate the amount of sunlight reaching crops, preventing sunburn and plant stress.

2. Reduced Water Loss

By lowering temperature and sunlight intensity, shade nets help reduce water evaporation.

3. Improved Seedling Survival

Nurseries protected with shade nets have better germination rates and healthier seedlings.

4. Protection Against Wind and Weather

Shade nets also reduce wind damage and protect delicate crops.

5. Increased Crop Productivity

Controlled growing environments often lead to improved crop yields.

How to Install a Shade Net Structure

To maximize the benefits of a shade net:

1. Use strong support structures such as poles or greenhouse frames.
2. Ensure the net is tightly secured to prevent wind damage.
3. Allow proper ventilation to maintain airflow around plants.
4. Choose the correct shade percentage for your crops.

Proper installation ensures your shade net lasts longer and performs effectively.

Where to Buy Agricultural Shade Nets in Kenya

High-quality shade nets should be made from pure virgin HDPE material for durability and UV resistance.

At Bestfix Irrigation, we supply agricultural shade nets suitable for:

• Nurseries
• Greenhouses
• Livestock shade structures
• General farm shading

Available sizes include:

• 4m × 50m shade nets
• 6m × 50m shade nets

Available ratings:

• 70 GSM – 55% shade
• 90 GSM – 70% shade
• 120 GSM – 85% shade

Final Thoughts

Agricultural shade nets are a valuable investment for farmers looking to protect crops and improve productivity. By understanding GSM, shade percentage, and crop requirements, you can select the best shade net for your farm.

Choosing the right shade net will help create a healthier growing environment, reduce crop stress, and improve overall farm performance.

📞 For shade nets and irrigation solutions:
Call or WhatsApp 0795 654 889