Insect nets are a simple, effective, and environmentally friendly tool for shielding plants from a variety of pests. The lightweight, fine-mesh fabric acts as a physical barrier against insects while allowing essential water, air, and sunlight to reach the plants.
Here are some common pests that insect nets are particularly effective against:
- Flea beetle – Frequently attacks brassicas such as radishes, cabbage, turnips, broccoli, and cauliflower.
- Striped and spotted cucumber beetles
- Leek moth
- Squash vine borer
- Squash bug
Installing the net
Install the insect net as soon as you sow seeds or plant seedlings.
Drape the net over hoops and secure it to the ground with weights. Make sure there are no gaps where insects could slip through. If needed, bury the edges of the net to ensure a tight seal.
You can also lay the net directly over crops. However, without a support structure, the fabric tends to crease, which can reduce light penetration and make watering more challenging. Additionally, insects may still reach parts of the plants that come into direct contact with the net.
Usage tips
For best results, use insect nets in combination with crop rotation. Otherwise, pests that overwinter in the soil where their host plants once grew may emerge in spring and feed directly under the net.
Regularly inspect the netting for damage. It should remain intact, with no tears or holes.
The net can stay in place until harvest for crops that do not require insect pollination. However, for vegetables that depend on pollinators—such as cucumbers, melons, and summer and winter squash—remove the net when flowers appear or perform manual pollination.