If you grow tomatoes in Australia, you have probably dealt with pests - from fruit flies and whiteflies to caterpillars and aphids. A healthy tomato plant can quickly turn into a pest buffet, leaving you with damaged fruit and frustration. So, is insect netting really worth it for tomato plants? In short - yes.
Insect netting is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your crop without resorting to harsh chemicals. Whether you are a backyard grower or managing a greenhouse setup, a good quality mesh can mean the difference between a thriving harvest and a total wipe-out.
Why Tomatoes Need Protection
Tomatoes attract a range of Australian pests:
- Tomato fruit fly - lays eggs inside ripening fruit, causing it to rot from the inside out.
- Whiteflies and aphids - suck plant sap and spread viral diseases.
- Caterpillars and moths - chew through leaves and stems, slowing growth and yield.
These pests thrive in warm, humid climates and can multiply fast. Once they have taken hold, even sprays can struggle to keep up.
How Insect Netting Works
Insect netting acts as a physical barrier between your plants and the pests. The fine mesh stops even small insects from reaching your crop, while still allowing sunlight, air, and water to pass through.
High-quality netting - like our UV-stabilised insect nets - also withstands the tough Australian climate. The mesh will not degrade or tear easily, even under full sun exposure or heavy rain.
Browse our full range of insect netting here.
Choosing the Right Mesh for Tomatoes
When selecting insect netting, look for:
- Mesh size: Around 25 x 50 mesh is ideal for keeping out fruit flies and small insects.
- Weight (GSM): A heavier GSM (for example, 115 GSM) offers more durability and UV protection.
- Width: Choose a roll wide enough to cover your rows or garden beds in one go - this reduces gaps where insects can enter.
Our insect netting rolls come in practical widths and lengths suitable for both garden beds and larger greenhouse setups.
How to Use Insect Netting for Tomatoes
- Cover your plants early. Install the netting as soon as you transplant your seedlings.
- Secure the edges. Use clips, weights, or bury the edges slightly in soil so there are no entry points.
- Support with a frame. Keep the mesh raised using hoops, stakes to prevent leaves from pressing against the netting (contact points can allow insects to bite through).
- Lift occasionally for pollination. Tomatoes are largely self-pollinating, but if you have them fully enclosed, open the cover briefly every few days or give the flowers a gentle shake.
Benefits Beyond Pest Control
- Reduced chemical use - keep your garden organic and safe for bees.
- Better fruit quality - no stings, blemishes, or internal rot.
- Weather protection - the mesh softens wind and reduces sun scorch.
- Long-term value - premium netting can last for years when stored properly.
Final Thoughts
Insect netting is not just for commercial farms - it is a smart investment for home gardeners too. With so many pest species active across Australia, protecting your tomato plants early will save time, money, and frustration later in the season.
Whether you are growing in a backyard bed, raised planter, or full greenhouse, insect netting offers a simple, chemical-free solution for keeping your tomatoes safe and productive.
Explore our range of Insect Netting designed for Australian growers - durable, UV-stabilised, and proven to perform season after season.
