Anti-hail netting and water saving: how it reduces evapotranspiration

In a context of prolonged droughts, irrigation restrictions and extreme temperatures, growers face a new challenge: producing more with less water. In this scenario, anti-hail netting not only protects fruit from hailstorms, but has also become an effective tool for optimising water use. Yes, installing netting can help you reduce water consumption by 20-25%, depending on conditions and crop type.

How does anti-hail netting help save water?

These are the main ways in which a well-installed net contributes to water saving:

1. Less direct evaporation

The net reduces direct solar radiation on the soil, which means that:

• Moisture is retained for longer
• Irrigation is more efficient
• Water stress on leaves and fruit is reduced

This translates into more days between irrigations and better management of the available water.

2. Protection against extreme heat

Anti-hail netting also moderates the ambient temperature, creating a more stable microclimate around the crop. This reduces heat stress and helps keep the plant's transpiration under control, especially in fruit orchards and vineyards.

3. Less runoff and soil compaction

During heavy rain, the net disperses the impact of the water and promotes its absorption. This means that:

• Water penetrates the soil profile better
• It is not lost through runoff
• The surface layer of the soil does not become compacted

4. Greater efficiency of the irrigation system

With anti-hail netting, the water you apply is used better. By keeping moisture in for longer:

• Irrigation intervals are spaced further apart
• Evaporation losses are reduced
• The flow rate is adjusted to the real needs of the crop

An investment that protects more than your harvest

More and more farms in Cataluña, Aragón and other parts of the country are adapting their installations not only to withstand hail, but also to improve long-term sustainability and profitability. Installing quality anti-hail netting, such as NovaNet®, is not an expense:

• It is a way to reduce water consumption,
• Protect production,
• And prepare for a farming future where every drop counts.

Would you like to know whether this solution suits your farm?

Contact us: we can visit your farm and make a realistic assessment of how netting could help you in terms of protection and savings.