Thanet Earth implements 3,000 SchermNed insectnetting filtersystems in existing greenhouse.

The greenhouse where the insect netting has been installed is used for cucumber cultivation. Initially, Arjan de Gier of A&A Growers, director of the cucumber operations at Thanet Earth, chose to equip one six-hectare greenhouse with insect netting. Within the existing greenhouse structure, the filter system proved to be the only technically feasible solution. “Our insectnetting filtersystem does not require any modifications to the ventilation system, such as rack-and-pinion systems or motors. In addition, it offers a favourable investment level and results in minimal airflow reduction,” explains Carl Stougie, advisor at SchermNed. “In this greenhouse, where climate control is particularly important, it is essential to maintain maximum ventilation capacity. That is exactly what our system enables.”

A phased customisation process

To ensure a perfect fit within the existing structure, project supervisor Marc van der Knaap was involved at key stages of the project. During his initial visit to the Thanet Earth site in Birchington, all dimensions were carefully measured. Based on these measurements, test nets were developed. These test nets were subsequently installed to verify whether the insect netting filters aligned precisely with the greenhouse structure and ventilation windows. After several minor adjustments, the full order was approved for production. To gain insight into the performance and experiences of other growers who have been using this specific type of SchermNed filtersystem for several years, the Thanet Earth team visited a reference project in the Netherlands.

Installation by the growers own team

The installation was carried out by Thanet Earth’s own installation team. To support an efficient and smooth process, SchermNed provided a clear installation manual, a dedicated instruction video and direct access to the project supervisor for technical support. “With this support, the installation team was able to work independently, while we remained available in the background to provide guidance and assistance where needed,” says Marc. The insectnetting filtersystem was delivered in week 3. At the start of the installation, SchermNed’s project supervisor was present on site to assist the local team. “We deliver a high-quality system, but we also support our customers in ensuring correct installation,” adds Carl. For this reason, SchermNed has recently taken further steps in optimising its project preparation process, increasingly using modern tools such as installation videos and 3D visualisations. This practical and clear approach was also appreciated by Arjan de Gier, as it kept the project well-structured and ensured an efficient collaboration. After completion of the installation, Marc revisited the project to inspect the final result. Jack van der Voort, owner of the family business SchermNed, also attended this visit, reflecting both his personal interest in the project and the long-standing relationship with Thanet Earth since 2008.

Initial practical experiences

As the system has been installed recently, it is still too early in the season to draw definitive conclusions. To date, no insects have been observed inside the greenhouse. In addition to insect control, the system contributes, according to the grower, to a reduced use of crop protection products and supports more stable production. The insectnetting is designed to prevent the entry of moths and caterpillars, bugs, aphids and whiteflies. We look back on a successful delivery project of our insectnetting filtersystem, in which the grower, with our support, achieved both an efficient and high-quality installation.

Following earlier projects in the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Spain and Saudi Arabia, this marks another strong project in the United Kingdom. It represents a further step in increasing the international recognition of our insectnetting filtersystem.

On the left Marc van der Knaap (SchermNed) with Arjan de Gier (Thanet Earth).