In gardening and landscaping, netting is a valuable tool used to protect fruit trees from various types of damage. One of the primary reasons for using netting is to prevent fruit sunburn. This occurs when fruits are exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods, especially during hot summer days. The intense heat can cause the fruit to become excessively heated, leading to scorching and damage. By covering the trees with netting, the direct sunlight is diffused, providing shade and reducing the risk of sunburn.
Another crucial function of netting is to safeguard fruit trees against hail damage. Hailstorms can be highly destructive, causing significant harm to the tree’s delicate blossoms, leaves, and developing fruits. By installing netting over the trees, the impact of hailstones is minimized, preventing bruising, splitting, or complete destruction of the fruits. This protection ensures a higher yield and minimizes losses for orchard owners.
Netting is also effective in warding off various pests that can damage or consume the fruits. Birds, for instance, are notorious for feeding on ripe fruits, causing significant losses to the harvest. Fruit bats can also be a nuisance, especially in areas where they are prevalent. By covering the trees with netting, these flying creatures are prevented from accessing the fruits, preserving the harvest for human consumption.
In addition to birds and fruit bats, netting serves as a barrier against insects that may infest the fruits. Insect pests such as codling moths, apple maggots, and cherry fruit flies can lay eggs on the fruits, leading to the development of larvae and subsequent damage. By using netting, the insects are unable to reach the fruits, reducing the risk of infestation and the need for chemical pesticides.
Netting also provides protection against environmental factors such as wind and sandstorms. Strong winds can cause branches to break or fruit to be knocked off the trees. Sandstorms, common in arid regions, can cause abrasion and damage to the fruit’s delicate skin. By installing netting, the impact of these natural elements is minimized, preserving the integrity of the tree and its fruits.
I have personally experienced the benefits of netting in my own fruit orchard. In one particularly hot summer, I noticed sunburn damage on several of my peaches and plums. After researching potential solutions, I decided to install netting over the trees the following year. The difference was remarkable, as the netting provided shade and prevented sunburn, resulting in a healthier and more bountiful harvest.
Netting is used over fruit trees for a variety of reasons. It protects against fruit sunburn, hail damage, bird and fruit bat feeding, insect infestation, and damage from wind and sandstorms. By using netting, gardeners and orchard owners can ensure the health and productivity of their fruit trees, leading to a successful harvest.
