From nets to natural films: Comparing orchard heat protection solutions
Protecting orchard crops from sunburn isn’t new. What’s changed is the intensity of heat events and the diversity of tools available to growers — from permanent shade structures to particle films, wax-based coatings, and now starch-based liquid coatings that combine protection with plant-friendly performance. With global fruit orchards spanning 53 million hectares and producing 887 million tonnes annually, even a small percentage loss to sunburn represents billions of euros in lost value each year.
Quick Comparison of Global Solutions
| Solution | Pros | Cons | Typical Cost Impact* |
| Shade Nets | Strong UV reduction, also protects against hail and wind | High capital cost, light reduction may affect flavor/color | High |
| Irrigation Cooling | Effective canopy cooling | High water demand, fungal risk, no UV protection | Medium-High (highly variable) |
| Kaolin Clay | Affordable, organic-compliant | Heavy white residue, harder to wash off, can reduce photosynthesis if overapplied | Low |
| Liquid CaCO₃ | Even coating, better adherence vs. powders | Some visible residue, multiple sprays needed | Medium |
| Starch-Based Coating | Reflects UV & IR, biodegradable, stomata-friendly, minimal residue | Some visible residue, multiple sprays needed | Low–Medium |
*Costs vary significantly by region, crop, and labor rates.
Why a starch-based coating stands out
- Bio-based & Biodegradable: 93% natural origin (ISO 16128) and readily biodegradable (OECD 301F).
- EU Certified Plant Biostimulant: CE-marked under Regulation (EU) 2019/1009, PFC 6(B) Non-Microbial, for woody perennials.
- Maintains Photosynthesis: Unlike heavy mineral coatings, Cropshader Orchard protects without blocking stomata, enabling sustained photosynthetic activity during heatwaves.
- Proven Multi-Crop Efficacy: Field trials in apples, walnuts, olives, mandarins, oranges, and pomegranates show fruit surface temperature reductions of up to 6.1°C and measurable gains in photosynthetic activity.
*Cropshader Orchard increased photosynthetic activity by up to 15% under heat stress across multiple crops, helping trees maintain energy production during the hottest periods.
The Takeaway
The right heat-protection strategy balances cost, ease of use, and crop quality preservation. While nets and cooling systems offer strong results, they come with high capital or water costs. Starch-based coatings like Cropshader deliver scalable, sustainable protection — ideal for smallholders and large export orchards alike.