Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
With the help of science, innovative light manipulation and ultraviolet management, photo-selective coloured netting creates an environment that can be manipulated to create optimal growing conditions in which crops can flourish.
Shade netting can increase water efficiency as it reduces the amount of evaporation from free water surfaces. A well-constructed shade house provides a protected microclimate ideal for seedlings, vegetables, cut flowers and potted plants. In hot climates vegetables and cut flowers are grown under shade cloth to reduce heat and light intensity.
The key is to provide the plant with the best quality of light – photosynthesis is most efficiently driven by blue and red light. Blue light (with a wavelength of between 425 and 500nm) has higher energy levels, which is particularly important for the initial stages of plant growth as well as during the blooming and fruit colouring process. Red light (with a wavelength range of 650 to 700nm) stimulates plant growth and development due to its moderate energy level.
Growers must manipulate the quantity of blue and red light as well as the ratio of blue to red light to obtain the best quality, size and colour in fruit or vegetable production, or to improve flower size and stem length in flower cultivation. This can be done by using SpectraNet in different densities and colours, or a combination thereof, to absorb, reflect, transmit and diffuse selected light wavelengths as required for specific plants.
Another advantage of Knittex shade netting is that the fabric does not unravel when cut. Consequently, repair work can easily be done if the material is damaged. The flexible, long-lasting, and lightweight fabric is easy to erect and offers breathability due to its open mesh configuration.
Read more about shade netting’s impact on produce.
Visit Knittex at Nampo this year
This year, Knittex will once again exhibit its quality products at Nampo. To demonstrate SpectraNet’s strength a 2x2m structure will be erected and covered with SpectraNet Code 20. The structure will be loaded with 400kg of weights on the Sunday before Nampo and the weight will remain there for the entire duration of the trade show.
At the end of Nampo 2018, the Knittex team decided to have a bit of fun. A sales representative climbed on top of the load that had remained in place throughout the week. A picture is worth a thousand words and this one says all you need to know about the Knittex level of quality and strength, and the trust we have in our product!
Knittex is an industry-leading manufacturer of high-quality knitted fabric that is durable and 100% recyclable. Our SpectraNet range provides producers with the best results and return on their investment. This claim is backed by years of research and development to ensure that Knittex nets have a guaranteed lifespan of ten years or more.
Visit us at NAMPO this year at stand H10B and stand a chance to win one of five Knittex ground sheets.
