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Upstate New York

Matt, just wanted to add, after yesterday's observation that besides hail protection, shade cloth not only diffuses light, but also diffuses extreme downpours! Our unprotected plant has lost a dozen or more leaves from the 11.60" rain storm, however "Swift" who is under 30% white, had no losses. I guess you could call it an indirect advantage of using shade cloth? Thanks again for the data, it helps growers making the decision. Glad I pulled the trigger on shade cloth!!!!!

7/30/2026 9:25:52 AM

Portland, CT

I agree with Larry. The combo of shade netting and wind fencing around the patch has kept my plants safe even during storms that should have ended the season.

7/30/2026 10:28:54 AM

Missouri

Definitely agree, the shade netting over my plant has helped significantly with storms, breaking up the impact of a heavy rain. Very few damaged leaves with this overhead. I am using black 30% and it has held up well for 2 seasons so far.

7/30/2026 1:25:47 PM

Connecticut

NY Grower- I guess as long as you have it attached/anchored properly this can be another advantage. However, I would not consider this to be unique to shade netting as insect netting may also offer something similar with the addition of preventing insects. Just something for growers to consider.

Nick's Big Pumpkin- Adding a physical barrier can provide some additional benefits. One other side impact would be increased humidity (potentially) so just something to think about. There is always a give and take;-)

Hough- Pumpkins do not need the full sunlight intensity and their large leaves makes them prone to wind damage so it could be a win-win. Insect screening may be another option for growers to consider as well for a multi-purpose benefit.

7/30/2026 9:37:23 PM