Quick answer

A shade net is a woven or knitted HDPE fabric used in farming, gardening and nurseries to cut sunlight intensity and protect plants. It comes in 30%, 50%, 75% and 90% shade ratings, usually green or black, and helps reduce heat stress, shield crops from strong sun, wind and hail, conserve soil moisture and improve seedling survival.

A shade net is a woven or knitted fabric (usually made from HDPE – high-density polyethylene) used in agriculture, gardening, and nurseries to reduce sunlight intensity and protect plants from harsh weather.

Common Shade Net Percentages

  • 30% shade – For plants needing high sunlight.
  • 50% shade – Suitable for many vegetables and ornamentals.
  • 75% shade – For shade-loving plants and nurseries.
  • 90% shade – Maximum protection, often used for storage areas.

Benefits

  • Reduces heat stress on plants.
  • Protects against strong sunlight, wind, and hail.
  • Helps conserve soil moisture.
  • Improves seedling survival and growth.
  • Can reduce insect and bird damage when used with net houses.

Common Colors

  • Green – Most widely used.
  • Black – Higher shading effect.

Published · Updated

About Maimun Fishing Tackles. Serving Kenya's fishing community since 1975 (founded as Asma & Sons in Old Town Mombasa) — fishing tackle, nets, aquaculture equipment and farm netting, with branches in Mombasa (Nehru Road), Nairobi (Darosa Plaza, Karen Road), Malindi and Naivasha. Questions about this guide? Call or WhatsApp +254 706 903 465 or email [email protected].