Management Tips

How to Select Commercial Grade Windbreak Cloth to Protect Crops

Weather conditions can have a big impact on crop yields and there are many products that are designed to minimise this. One of the weather conditions you need to protect crops from is wind as this can reduce overall productivity. A windbreak cloth can be used as protection.

Check the material for the windbreak cloth as there are many options to choose from.

One of the materials you can select is HDPE or high density polyethylene which is known for being very durable. It also has high breathability and flexibility allowing easy circulation of air. It will redirect wind properly and ensure crop protection. Check whether the edge of the windbreak cloth is reinforced as this will increase durability. It will be more resistant to wear and tear which can extend the lifespan of the windbreak cloth. This will also reduce fraying and damage if you are in a location where there are strong winds. When purchasing windbreak cloth, check whether this comes with button eye holes along the edge so that this makes it easier to install them. You will be able to securely anchor the cloth and prevent it from tearing when exposed to adverse weather conditions.

Consider the durability of the windbreak cloth

When it comes to UV radiation as this is another environmental factor that can degrade the quality of the cloth. You can minimise this by choosing a windbreak cloth that has high UV stabilisation so that the material is able to maintain a high structural integrity even after being exposed to sunlight for a long time. This is why a commercial windbreak cloth can be very beneficial especially if you are trying to extend the growing season of your crops. There are different densities to windbreak cloths and you have to consider the needs of your crops and the wind conditions in your location when selecting this. You will have greater wind reduction with a higher density windbreak cloth but this can limit air circulation. While ventilation is improved with a low density windbreak cloth, protection against strong winds will be lower. So you have to consider the wind patterns in your location and look for a way to balance both ventilation and wind reduction properties.

Check with the supplier about the options for length and height.

With commercial grade windbreak cloth, you will have customisable length and height so that the dimensions of your specific crop area can be covered. You will be able to have more versatility when adapting the growing conditions to different crops. Look for suppliers that can provide a range of sizes. Consider how this will be installed. Check whether there is a clear installation guide provided with the windbreak cloth along with support from the supplier. There are challenging weather conditions when it comes to commercial agriculture so you have to choose a cloth that can weather different scenarios such as heavy rain and strong winds. This will shield your crops and maintain their health throughout the growing season.

Hester Griffith
the authorHester Griffith