In warm climates, ensuring optimal ventilation and maintaining comfortable greenhouse conditions is essential, all while achieving the highest levels of pest control. Climate change and rising temperatures, especially during mild winters, are increasing the reproduction rates and sizes of insect populations. Human intervention in agriculture, including monoculture practices, reduced biodiversity, and restricted food sources for insects in protected areas, has made pests more aggressive than ever, as stated by Arrigoni.
They add: Over the past few years, traditional defenses have reached their limits. Insects are developing resistance faster than new solutions can be developed. At the same time, the list of approved insecticides continues to shrink. Geopolitical challenges have further complicated matters for producers, as rising energy costs not only increase production expenses but also limit investments in new technologies. Meanwhile, crops like tomatoes face additional threats, such as the devastating Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV). Although new resistant varieties are being introduced, growers need time to adapt to these changes and optimize production.
The perfect balance in insect protection
To address these challenges, the Arrigoni R&D team has developed a new concept of insect protection that strikes the perfect balance between airflow, mechanical resistance, and pest control. This innovation is made possible through Arlene HT yarn, the result of years of research into extrusion methods, material recipes, and extensive testing in both laboratory and greenhouse environments.
"During development, we tested various yarn diameters ranging from 0.17mm to 0.15mm and below. Results consistently showed that yarns thinner than 0.15mm had reduced resistance to wear and tear, increased susceptibility to abrasion, and lower UV resistance under QUV climate conditions. Arlene HT yarn with a diameter of 0.17mm proved to be the ideal choice, combining excellent mechanical resistance, high ventilation, and effective insect control. This led to the creation of the Biorete Air Plus range."
The Biorete Air plus eco-friendly insect screens seek to address the complex challenges faced by producers."These screens provide a secure barrier against pests, ensure optimal airflow, and maintain adequate light conditions for crop growth. The range includes various mesh sizes, allowing producers to target specific insect pests while achieving excellent ventilation and durability.
One consistent feature across all Biorete Air Plus screens is their exceptional mechanical resistance and long lifespan. Each screen undergoes rigorous testing—both in-house and at independent laboratories—to guarantee reliable performance. Tailored solutions are available to meet specific customer needs. For regions with lower insect pressure, producers can opt for more open screens that prioritize ventilation while providing sufficient protection."
Tested in tropical climates
According to Arrigoni, climatic challenges are particularly demanding in tropical countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, and South Korea. High humidity and year-round high temperatures create ideal conditions for pests like whiteflies and aphids. In these regions, producers face numerous obstacles in greenhouse production. Maintaining effective pest control remains a top priority, but adequate airflow is equally critical to regulate temperature and humidity levels.
Additionally, producers require screens with robust mechanical resistance that can withstand frequent handling, such as up to 30 window openings and closings daily for at least three years. Replacing screens mid-cycle involves significant costs and risks, including disruptions to production and supply chains. Many growers have reported issues with screen tearing and degradation after just one or two years of use.
Biorete 50 Air Plus has demonstrated performance in these challenging conditions. Compared to a standard 50-mesh insect screen, it delivers 36% better air permeability, ensuring a safer and more productive environment, claims the Arrigoni team.
Stories from the field
South Korea and Vietnam: "One of the biggest barriers to adopting insect screens here was the concern about high summer temperatures. Growers are very cautious about this issue. However, after installing Biorete 50 Air Plus, we observed that the daily average temperature inside greenhouses during the summer was equal to or only 1.2°C higher than outside. This is an outstanding result. Without any screen, greenhouse temperatures are typically slightly higher than outside in summer. With BIORETE 50 AIR PLUS, we've achieved better air exchange, healthier plant growth, and a balanced oxygen-to-CO2 ratio, leading to higher tomato yields."
Malaysia: "Malaysia's high year-round rainfall—averaging 3,085.5mm annually—combined with high temperatures, makes humidity levels critical for plant growth. By installing Biorete 50 Air Plus on the sidewalls of greenhouses or net houses, we've reduced humidity levels significantly compared to standard 50-mesh nets. Even the workers feel the difference! The improved conditions lead to healthier crops and exceptional harvests, while effectively controlling pests and minimizing fungal diseases."
For more information:
Arrigoni
www.arrigoni.it