Best Commercial Bird Netting

Without bird netting, birds can cause major damage in orchards, vineyards and large-scale growing environments, especially as fruit ripens and sugar levels rise. For commercial growers, even small losses can quickly add up, affecting yield, fruit quality and profitability.

That’s why commercial bird netting is one of the most effective long-term solutions for protecting valuable crops. Installed correctly, it creates a physical barrier that prevents birds from accessing fruit, while still allowing airflow and light penetration for healthy growth.

In this blog we’ll cover what bird netting is, why it’s essential for large-scale growers, and how to choose the right solution for your needs.

Also, if you’re looking for broader orchard and vineyard best practices, check out our guide on orchard & vineyard management tips including top selling products and protective solutions.

What is bird netting?

Bird netting is a protective covering made from durable mesh that creates a barrier between your crop and wildlife. Installed over fruit trees, vines or vegetable crops, it stops birds from accessing high-value ripening produce without restricting airflow or sunlight.

If you’re managing bulk commercial plantings, the right bird netting helps secure your investment and maximise yields season after season.

Why use bird netting in commercial settings?

Large-scale growers face unique challenges. The bigger the crop area, the more exposure to flocks of birds that can strip fruit in hours. Quality bird netting:

• protects crops from damage
• is humane and non-lethal
• reduces the need for labour-intensive deterrents
• integrates with trellis, posts or shade structures
• withstands harsh climates and long-term exposure
• limits waste at harvest
• safeguards your return on investment in high-value crops

Choosing the right bird netting and installing it is critical. Here are a couple of our products that are ideal for commercial use.

Multi-row bird net – reliable overhead coverage for bulk crop areas

Multi-Row Bird Net is engineered for commercial orchard and vineyard protection. Built for large-scale operations, it combines durability with performance to defend crops against bird damage while maintaining essential light and airflow.

Key features:

• UV stabilised HDPE round monofilament yarns
• 10 year UV warranty
• Available in 30gsm and 39gsm weights
• Reinforced selvedge edges for extra strength
• Knitted monofilament construction with a 15mm diamond pattern
• Other sizes available on request
• Made-to-order options including edge ropes
• Designed for AUS/NZ climatic conditions

This netting is ideal for growers who need reliable bulk coverage that will last season after season.

Side net – flexible protection where you need it most

Birds don’t always attack from above. In many orchards and vineyards, side entry is the weak point, particularly around ends of rows, shelter belts, open blocks, or where netting systems don’t fully enclose the crop.

Our Side Nets complement overhead bird netting or can be used on their own. Designed for commercial growing applications, it delivers long-term performance in demanding horticultural environments.

Key features:

• UV stabilised HDPE round monofilament yarns
• 10 year UV warranty
• Lock stitch triangular hole shape
• 24gsm
• Reinforced selvedge edges for extra strength
• Knitted monofilament construction
• Other sizes available on request
• UV stabilised for AUS/NZ climatic conditions

7 practical tips for using bird netting effectively

Investing in premium commercial bird netting is a smart move, but it’s the way you install and manage it that makes the biggest difference long term. For commercial orchards and vineyards, small gaps or weak points can quickly turn into costly crop losses.

Here are seven practical tips to help you get the best performance from your bird netting season after season.

1. Install it properly (and secure the base)
   Correct installation is essential. Ensure netting provides full coverage over the crop area and is secured along the bottom edge so birds can’t sneak underneath. It’s also important to allow a little slack so plants can grow without rubbing or tearing.
2. Choose the right mesh and net type
   The best mesh depends on the birds you’re dealing with and the crop you’re protecting. A suitable mesh helps prevent birds pushing through while still allowing airflow and light. For example, multi-row systems are ideal for large-scale overhead coverage, while side netting helps close off entry points.
3. Inspect the netting regularly
   Even high-quality netting should be checked during the season. Walk the perimeter and look for tears, holes, lifted edges, or strain points. Repairing small issues early prevents bigger failures later, especially after wind events.
4. Combine netting with extra deterrents when needed
   Netting is highly effective on its own, but in high-pressure areas it can help to reinforce the message. Reflective tape, predator decoys and other visual deterrents can reduce bird activity around the block.
5. Remove nearby attractants
   Birds are drawn to easy food and water sources. If possible, reduce anything that encourages birds to hang around close to your crop during peak ripening periods.
6. Clear fallen fruit and produce
   Dropped fruit and vegetables attract birds even when the canopy is protected. Keeping the ground tidy helps reduce bird traffic and improves the overall effectiveness of your netting.
7. Store netting properly in the off-season
   If netting is removed seasonally, store it carefully. Make sure it’s clean and dry before packing away, then keep it in a cool, dry location to reduce wear and extend its usable life.

Choose the right netting for your commercial needs

When selecting bird netting consider the following:

• Coverage requirements e.g. full canopy or side protection only
• Weight and mesh type for durability vs airflow
• Installation ease – depending on your system
• Local climate – UV exposure and weather conditions
• Customisation needs for edge ropes or specific dimensions

Home gardeners are also catered for at PrimeHort, with a quality product for small areas or lifestyle blocks. The Gardener Anti-Bird Netting is also weather-resistant, making it a long-lasting solution for protecting plants from birds.

Protect your crop with proven commercial bird netting

When bird pressure rises, a reliable netting system can be the difference between a clean harvest and major losses. Our team can help you match your crop, site and protection goals with the right bird netting solution, so please reach out if we can help further.

Integrate bird netting with good crop management

As a final note, bird netting works best as part of a holistic orchard or vineyard strategy. For more insights, we can point you in the right direction for organic mowing, economical irrigation solutions, other horticultural fabrics or overall crop protection – please reach out, we would be delighted to assist.