Insectnetting in tomato cultivation at Gardener’s Pride

"I now experience more ease in pest control in lit cultivation," says Marco van Overbeek of Gardener’s Pride in Friesland. The tomato grower had insect netting installed by SchermNed last year and quickly saw the benefits. "We haven’t counted a single pest—no whiteflies and no Tuta absoluta." This spring, the second greenhouse in Beetgum was also equipped with insect netting, resulting in a stable greenhouse climate and improved pest control.

Efficient installation, optimal pest control, and a better greenhouse climate with SchermNed insect netting

When integrating insect netting into existing greenhouses, customization plays a major role. In the 6-hectare greenhouse of Gardener’s Pride, which features frameless windows, SchermNed’s system proved to be the ideal solution. Thanks to its construction and low-maintenance design, the insect netting could be installed without modifying the greenhouse structure. SchermNed offers both insect netting filters and pleated mesh, but for this situation, the insect netting filter was the best choice.

A common concern with insect netting is its impact on ventilation. However, at Gardener’s Pride, no negative effects on the greenhouse climate have been observed so far. "We now keep the windows open at least 2% to maintain sufficient air exchange," the grower explains. The installation took place during cultivation, increasing flexibility and improving efficiency.

In addition to stabilizing the greenhouse climate, the insect netting provides an effective pest control solution. "After a few weeks in lit cultivation, we have yet to count any whiteflies or Tuta absoluta," says Marco van Overbeek. The choice for rectangular insect netting contributes to this success, as it is more effective in blocking pests than square mesh. The first greenhouse was fitted with a mesh size of 0.27x0.77 mm, while the second greenhouse received 0.97x0.604 mm mesh.

Another added benefit is the reduction in the number of bumblebee hives needed. Since fewer bumblebees escape from the greenhouse, Gardener’s Pride was able to lower the number of hives per hectare. "We have already reduced by one hive per hectare and expect to decrease further."

Advancing horticulture

With support from SIG&F subsidies, Oxin Growers continues to invest in sustainable techniques. Buyers like Albert Heijn are setting increasingly high standards for environmentally friendly cultivation methods, and insect netting plays a crucial role in meeting these demands. "This is the future," Marco states. "If we ever build a new greenhouse, it will undoubtedly include insect netting."

Want to learn more about how insect netting contributes to healthier and more efficient cultivation? Contact SchermNed and discover the possibilities.