NEW NETTING SOLUTION PROTECTS FRUIT FROM SUNBURN

Nulandis is importing Drape Net®. from Australia, specifically to support fruit farmers in the Southern Cape region who lose thousands of rand annually as a consequence of sun damage to their crops. The Drape Net. is easily draped over trees (like a blanket) and used when necessary. The nets are also about a third of the cost of fixed netting and are easy to move and store.

Other benefits are:

• Decreased cross-varietal pollination, helping increase the number of seedless fruits in seedless varieties

• Lower pruning requirements in some instances

• More protection for the trees due to the netting's hardy wind resistance

• Less damage caused by birds and insects as well as hail

• Saves up to 30% on irrigation during the months the trees are covered

Drape Net. is available in 6 metre and 8 metre widths and a standard length of 100 metres. Farmers can sew nets together for orchard rows longer than this. With proper care, they should last 10-15 years. Tears are easy to fix, by sewing.

Nulandis distributes Drape Net®. Wizz applicator machines which are manufactured under licence in the Southern Cape. It is expected that Drape Net®. will become more popular as farmers seek ways to combat the effects of climate change, such as more frequent extreme weather events like hailstorms, and improve the efficiency of water-use.