The Gardener’s Guide to Choosing the Right Protective Structure
Growing your own food should be rewarding, not frustrating. Whether you're battling harsh sun, pests, or unpredictable weather, the right protective structure can make all the difference. Here’s how to choose the best option for your garden.
Why Use a Protective Structure?
✔ Grow longer – Start earlier in spring and harvest later into autumn
✔ Protect crops – Shield plants from wind, heavy rain, hail, and extreme heat
✔ Reduce pests – Keep insects, birds, and animals away from your produce
✔ Boost yields – Healthier plants mean more food for your table
Which Structure Is Right for Your Garden?
1. Polytunnels – Ideal for Heat-Loving Crops
Best for: Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, eggplants
Why you’ll love it:
- Our 4m x 4m polytunnel is perfect for serious home growers
- UV-stabilised cover lasts for years, even in harsh sun
- Optional roll-up sides for cooling on hot days
Bonus: Pair a polytunnel with a shade cloth for adjustable seasonal control!
2. Shade Houses – Perfect for Delicate Greens & Seedlings
Best for: Lettuce, spinach, herbs, and young plants
Shade Cloth Options:
- 30% shade – Light protection for heat-tolerant greens
- 50% shade – Balanced coverage for most vegetables
- 70% shade – Strong sun protection for delicate crops
- 90% shade – Maximum cooling for nurseries or extreme heat
3. Net Houses – Heavy-Duty Protection for Fruit Crops
Best for: Fruit trees, vines, and bird/hail-sensitive crops
Key Benefits:
✔ High-grade netting – Blocks birds, bats, and large insects while maintaining airflow
✔ Customisable defence – Combine with shade cloth for seasonal climate control
✔ Engineered for trees – 1.6m wall height + 3m apex accommodates most fruit trees
✔ Hail-resistant – Robust construction withstands severe weather
Available Sizes:
- Standard widths: 4m, 5m, 6m, 10m, 12m (Custom lengths available)
- Tall entry options for tractor access
Pro Tip: Ideal for orchards, berry farms, and vineyards needing full-season protection without sacrificing ventilation.
How to Choose the Best Shade Level
Not sure which shade percentage is right for you? Here’s a quick guide:
|
Shade Level |
Best For |
Ideal Crops |
|
30% |
Mild sun protection |
Beans, squash, rosemary |
|
50% |
Balanced coverage |
Lettuce, basil, peppers |
|
70% |
Strong sun blocking |
Spinach, seedlings, orchids |
|
90% |
Maximum cooling |
Nursery plants, shade-loving ferns |
Ready to Get Started?
The right structure depends on your climate, crops, and garden size. Whether you need a polytunnel for summer veggies, shade cloth for delicate greens, or a net house to stop pests, we can help you find the perfect fit.
👉 Contact us for expert advice!
