Description
Insect Nets
Insect nets are fine-mesh agricultural nets designed to prevent insects from entering protected crop areas. They are commonly manufactured from UV-stabilised polyethylene or similar durable materials.
Unlike chemical pesticides, insect nets work through physical pest exclusion. The net openings are small enough to stop targeted insects from passing through while allowing ventilation.
They can also be installed around doors, side vents and roof vents of greenhouses to improve overall crop protection.
In Kenya, insect nets are commonly used in:
- Greenhouses
- Shade houses
- Seedling nurseries
- Open-field vegetable farms
- Hydroponic farms
- Flower farms
- Fruit production areas
- Ventilation openings
Important benefits of using Insect Nets
- Helps Control Common Insect Pests
Insect nets can help exclude pests such as:
- Whiteflies
- Thrips
- Aphids
- Leaf miners
- Small moths
- Some beetles
- Other flying insects
- Reduces Dependence on Pesticides
When fewer insects enter the growing area, farmers may have less pest pressure to manage. This can support an integrated pest management programme and reduce unnecessary pesticide applications.
Insect nets should not be viewed as a complete replacement for pest monitoring and other control methods. Regular scouting remains important.
- Protects Seedlings
Young seedlings are particularly vulnerable to insect damage. Installing insect netting around a nursery can provide an additional layer of protection during the early stages of crop growth.
Healthy seedlings have a better chance of establishing properly after transplanting.
- Allows Ventilation
A greenhouse needs good ventilation to control temperature and humidity. Completely closing ventilation openings can create a hot and humid environment. Insect nets allow air to move through vents while reducing the entry of many insects.
- Provides Long-Term Value
Quality agricultural insect nets are designed for outdoor use and can serve for several seasons when properly installed and maintained. UV stabilisation is especially important because the net is exposed to strong sunlight.
Understanding Insect Net Mesh Sizes
40 Mesh vs 50 Mesh Insect Net
40 Mesh
A 40-mesh insect net provides a good balance between pest protection and airflow.
It can be suitable where farmers need general exclusion while maintaining good ventilation.
It may be used on:
- Greenhouse side vents
- Nursery structures
- Doors
- General vegetable production areas
50 Mesh
A 50-mesh net has finer openings and provides greater exclusion of smaller insects.
It can be considered where pests such as thrips and whiteflies are a serious concern.
However, finer mesh can restrict airflow more than a coarser mesh. Therefore, farmers should consider the greenhouse design, climate and ventilation requirements before selecting the net.
Choosing the Right Insect Net for Whiteflies and Thrips
When selecting insect netting, do not choose based on mesh count alone. Check the actual aperture or opening size of the net and compare it with the size of the pest you want to exclude. For very small pests, a finer net is generally required.
A good greenhouse design should therefore balance:
Pest exclusion + ventilation + temperature management.
Farmers should also maintain good hygiene, remove infected plant material, use sticky traps and regularly inspect crops.
Where Can Insect Nets Be Installed?
Greenhouse Side Vents- Side vents provide important ventilation but can also become entry points for insects. Installing insect netting over the openings helps reduce pest entry while maintaining airflow.
Roof Vents- Roof ventilation is useful for releasing hot air. Insect netting can be fitted over these openings to improve pest exclusion.
Greenhouse Doors- A greenhouse door that remains open frequently can allow insects to enter easily. Insect netting can be incorporated into the entrance design or used as part of a double-door entry system.
Seedling Nurseries- Fine insect netting is particularly useful for protecting young plants from early pest attacks.
Insect Netting Installation
Measure the area accurately before cutting the material. The net should cover the entire ventilation opening without leaving large gaps around the edges. Use suitable fastening materials to secure the net to the greenhouse structure.
Pay attention to:
- Corners
- Seams
- Door openings
- Ventilation edges
- Torn sections
- Gaps around the frame
Even a small opening can allow insects into a protected growing area.
The net should also be installed tightly enough to prevent insects from finding gaps, but without creating unnecessary tension that could damage the material.
Factors to Consider When Buying Insect Nets in Kenya
Mesh Size-Choose a mesh suitable for the insects you are trying to exclude.
Material Quality- Look for strong agricultural-grade material that can withstand outdoor conditions.
UV Stabilisation- Since the net is exposed to sunlight, UV stabilisation helps improve its service life.
Width and Roll Length- Insect nets are available in different widths and roll lengths. Select a size that reduces unnecessary joining and wastage during installation.
Ventilation Requirements- Remember that finer nets can reduce airflow. Consider your greenhouse design before selecting very fine mesh.
Installation Requirements- Check how the net will be attached to your greenhouse frame. Proper installation prevents gaps and reduces the risk of tearing.
Insect Net Prices in Kenya
It usually costs about Kshs 100-120 per square meter. The price of insect nets in Kenya depends on several factors, including:
- Mesh count
- Material quality
- Net width
- Roll length
- UV stabilisation
- Brand
- Quantity purchased
Fine-mesh nets are generally more specialised than general-purpose agricultural nets. Instead of choosing only according to the lowest price, farmers should consider the expected service life and the level of pest protection required.
Buying the correct net the first time can save money by reducing replacement costs and improving crop protection.
Insect Nets and Integrated Pest Management
Insect netting works best when combined with other pest management practices. Farmers should regularly inspect crops for signs of pests. Sticky traps can help monitor flying insects, while good farm hygiene reduces pest breeding areas.
Remove heavily infested leaves or plant materials where appropriate and avoid carrying pests from an infested crop into a clean greenhouse.
The combination of insect netting, crop monitoring, hygiene, biological control and responsible pesticide use provides stronger protection than relying on one method alone.