Shade Nets in Kenya

shade nets in kenya
Shade nets in Kenya are in stock for sale at affordable prices at Faulu irrigation LTD. We customize shade nets according to your requested sizes. All shade net types; 35%, 55%, 75% and 90% sunlight levels sold from KES 14,000 – KES 37,000. Get in touch with Faulu Irrigation for quality shade nets in Kenya. We are proud to help you get the right shade net that matches your crop growing requirements. Call

Quick Takeaways

  • Shade nets reduce heat stress and water evaporation, improving crop performance.
  • Shade nets are available in 35%, 55%, 75% to 90%.
  • Most agricultural shade nets are made from Knitted UV resistant material.
  • Shade nets cost between KES 13,000 and KES 37,000 depending on density and size.
  • Used to protect crops such as lettuce, tomatoes, strawberries, herbs, and seedlings.
  • Shade net installation should be done better to ensure durability of the net.

Why Shade Nets Are Important in Agfriculture

Shade nets have become essential in modern farming because Kenya’s climate patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable. Excessive sunlight, prolonged drought, and strong winds can reduce crop productivity and increase irrigation costs. Shade nets create a controlled microclimate that protects crops while maintaining optimal temperatures.

Types of Shade Nets in Kenya

Knitted Shade Nets

Knitted shade nets are the most popular in Kenya because they are flexible and resistant to tearing. They allow better airflow and withstand strong winds better than woven nets. These are ideal for agricultural use including growing vegetables, seedlings, and flowers.

Woven Shade Nets

Woven shade nets are denser and provide stronger shading. Are ideal for car parks, animal shelter and compound fencing.

Shade Net Specifications

Shade Percentage

The shading percentage indicates how much sunlight the shade net blocks.
Shade Percentage Best Use
30%–40% Tomatoes, capsicum
50%–60% Vegetables and herbs
70%–75% Lettuce, strawberries
90% Nurseries and sensitive seedlings
 Standard Shade Net Sizes Shade nets in Kenya are available in sizes of
  • 4m × 50m rolls
  • 3m × 50m rolls

Colors

Common colors include black and green shade net.

Shade Nets Prices in Kenya 2026

Shade net prices vary depending on density, material quality, UV treatment, and supplier.
Shade Net Type Size Price Range
35% Shade Net 4m × 50m KES 13,000 – 18,000
50% Shade Net 4m × 50m KES 15,000 – 21,000
75% Shade Net 4m × 50m KES 22,000 – 30,000
90% Shade Net 4m × 50m KES 32,000 – 48,000

Common Crops Grown Under Shade Nets

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are grown under 35% shade nets to reduce blossom drop and sunscald.

Capsicum

Shade nets improve fruit color and reduce heat stress during flowering.

Leafy Vegetables

Including lettuce, spinach, kales and broccoli. The ideal shade net filtration level for vegetables is 55%

Strawberries

Strawberries require moderate shade to prevent fruit burning and excessive moisture loss.

Seedlings

Nursery seedling growers use 75 or 90% shade nets to harden seedlings before transplanting.

How to Use Shade Nets Properly

Using shade nets effectively requires proper crop matching and ventilation. Maintain Airflow Ensure adequate spacing between the net and crops to encourage airflow and reduce fungal diseases. Monitor Humidity High humidity under dense nets may encourage diseases if airflow is poor.

How to Install Shade Nets

Step 1: Prepare the Structure

Use:
  • Treated timber poles
  • Galvanized steel pipes
  • Concrete anchors

Step 2: Fix Support Wires

Tension wires properly to prevent sagging.

Step 3: Attach the Shade Net

Use channel lock profiles and wiggle wires to hold the net onto the edges of the poles or metal structure.

Step 4: Ensure the net is tightly stretched

Loose nets flap during strong winds and tear faster.

Shade Net House Farming in Kenya

Shade houses are widely used in horticulture because they lower the evaporation rates. Benefits include:
  • Better pest management
  • Reduced pesticide use
  • Faster seedling growth
  • Improved market quality
Unlike a greenhouse, a shade house is cheaper to construct and require less maintenance. This makes them attractive for small-scale farmers transitioning into commercial horticulture. Water Conservation Benefits of Shade Nets One of the biggest advantages of shade nets is reduced evapotranspiration. Farmers in dry regions report:
  • Lower irrigation frequency
  • Better soil moisture retention
  • Reduced water bills
Research from suppliers indicates water loss can reduce by up to 50% under quality shade nets. For farmers facing water shortages, this can dramatically improve farm sustainability. Pest and Disease Control Under Shade Nets While shade nets are not insect-proof alone, they reduce pest pressure when combined with insect nets. Benefits include:
  • Reduced whitefly attacks
  • Lower aphid infestations
  • Protection from birds
  • Reduced physical crop damage

Challenges Farmers Face with Shade Nets

Wind Damage

Improperly installed nets can tear during strong winds.

Poor Quality Products

Cheap non-UV-treated nets deteriorate quickly.

Incorrect Shade Percentage

Using excessive shading can reduce crop growth and flowering.

Where to Buy Shade Nets in Kenya

Faulu Irrigation LTD. We have shade nets available in rolls of 4 x 50m with varying sunlight filtration levels of 35%, 55%, 75% and 90%.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much are shade nets in Kenya?

KES 14,000 – KES 37,000.

2. How long do UV-treated shade nets last?

5 – 6 years.

3. What are the different types of shade nets?

35%, 55%, 75% and 90% filtration levels.

4. How much does a 55% shade net cost in Kenya?

KES 19,000 – KES 21,000.

5. Which crops grow best under shade nets?

Tomato, capsicum, leafy greens, strawberry, herbs and seedlings.

6. How to choose shade net?

Consider the shade percentage, material and type of crop.

7. What material is used to make agricultural shade nets?

UV-stabilized High-Density Polyethylene fabric.

8. Where can I buy shade nets in Nairobi?

Faulu Irrigation LTD.

9. Are green shade nets better than black ones?

Green nets generally absorb less heat and may create cooler growing environments compared to black nets in hot climates.

10. How to attach shade netting?

You can use wooden poles or metal structure with wires to hold the net.

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