Shade Netting
Cover
Shade netting is a summer season-extension tool, helping crops keep growing when strong sun, dry air and hot greenhouse conditions would otherwise cause scorching or bolting. It is not for frost protection, but it can preserve tender salads and make protected growing spaces more manageable during warm UK spells.
How it works
The mesh filters part of the sunlight, reducing leaf and compost temperatures without stopping airflow. This eases heat stress and slows moisture loss, while avoiding the stale, humid conditions that can result from covering a greenhouse with solid material. Used externally or inside a structure, it moderates intense sunshine and helps plants continue growing evenly through hot periods.
Best for
Use it for lettuce, rocket, coriander, parsley and other salad leaves prone to bolting, particularly in containers and south-facing beds. It also helps young greenhouse tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and aubergines acclimatise during heatwaves. Choose it for a bright patio, greenhouse or polytunnel where midday sun causes leaf scorch, wilting or rapidly drying compost.
How to use it
Fit shade netting so air can still circulate around crops. In a greenhouse or polytunnel, secure it above or outside the sun-facing side, leaving doors and vents free to open. Over an outdoor salad bed, stretch it on simple supports rather than laying it tightly on plants. Apply it during consistently bright weather, check moisture beneath it, and remove or reduce it as light levels fall later in the season. Combine shading with morning watering and good ventilation.
Tips
Shade netting is supplementary: it cannot replace watering, ventilation or sensible plant spacing. Use only as much shade as crops need, since excessive shading weakens growth and reduces cropping. Keep it taut so wind does not rub leaves, and inspect fixings after storms or prolonged rainfall.
Shade Netting: frequently asked questions
How does shade netting work?
The mesh filters part of the sunlight, reducing leaf and compost temperatures without stopping airflow.
How do I use shade netting?
Fit shade netting so air can still circulate around crops.
What is shade netting best for?
Use it for lettuce, rocket, coriander, parsley and other salad leaves prone to bolting, particularly in containers and south-facing beds.
General guidance for UK gardens and allotments. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.