Greenhouse or anti-hail netting? An alternative for horticulture

If you grow vegetables outdoors, you have probably considered protecting them. And the greenhouse was most likely the first option that came to mind. But what if we told you there is an alternative that is more economical, better ventilated and has public grants available? Anti-hail netting for horticulture is gaining ground as an effective and cost-efficient solution against hail, excessive sun and wind. In this article we explain why more and more growers are replacing or complementing greenhouses with this type of installation.

What does anti-hail netting do for a vegetable crop?

Much more than you might think:

• Protects against hailstorms → the hail does not even touch the crop
• Reduces sunburn → it diffuses light and reduces the direct impact of the sun
• Creates a more stable temperature → thanks to natural ventilation
• Reduces water stress → the crop transpires better and moisture is retained for longer
• Improves the working environment → more accessible and less enclosed than a greenhouse

Advantages over a greenhouse in horticulture

Anti-hail netting does not replace every function of a greenhouse, but in many cases it is a more logical and cost-effective alternative.

• Constant natural ventilation

No condensation, no risk of fungal disease from excess humidity.

• Controlled temperature without enclosure

Heat does not build up. The microclimate is cooler and more stable in summer.

• Lower initial investment

A netting installation costs a fraction of the price of a conventional greenhouse.

• Modular, expandable and easy to dismantle

You can cover only the sensitive areas or easily extend it.

What about grants? In Cataluña there is the "Pla de Millora"

Anti-hail netting installations are eligible for subsidies through the Pla de Millora d'Explotacions Agràries. This means that part of the investment may be covered by public grants, which further reduces the real cost for the grower. At Novafrut we can advise you on:

• The documentation required
• What type of project may qualify
• How to justify the technical and economic improvement

Is it suitable for any vegetable?

Yes. In Cataluña we have already installed netting over crops of tomato, pepper, lettuce, onion, leafy crops and sensitive flowering crops. The netting adapts perfectly to a wide range of planting layouts and can be combined with windbreak or insect netting if the surroundings require it.

Would you like to see how it could look on your farm?

Contact us: we can study your case and propose a solution tailored to your budget, type of crop and technical requirements.