The Smart Gardener’s Guide to Protective Growing Structures

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!

Acacia Greenhouse

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

Waratah Nethouse

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!