Webinar Summary: Nets for Mushroom Farms and Compost Yards

Host: UMDIS Mushroom Agency
Guest Speaker: Jeroen Van Lier, Consultant
Moderator: Maksym Yenchenko, Inna Ustylovska
Sponsors: Christiaens Group, Agro-Projects, GrowTime Engineering

Key Topics Discussed

1. Types of Nets
   • Growing Nets: Used in the shelving of mushroom farms.
   • Composting Nets: Used in compost tunnels for pulling compost.
   • Gliding Nets: Reduce friction and protect other nets in compost tunnels.
2. Choosing the Right Net
   • Material and Thickness: Thicker nets are stronger; for example, standard nets vs. stronger nets.
   • Length and Width: Nets should be slightly longer than the shelving to accommodate rolling and pulling processes. Typically, 3 meters extra length is advised for growing nets.
   • Sleeve: Essential for pulling; a sleeve is a reinforced edge of the net to insert a bar for pulling.
3. Parameters to Ask Suppliers
   • Material Quality: Ensure the net has enough material for durability.
   • Length and Width: Specify extra dimensions for sleeves and rolling.
   • Shrinkage: Good quality nets should have minimal shrinkage. Order nets slightly wider (e.g., 136 cm for a 134 cm shelf).
4. Mistakes to Avoid
   • Damage During Filling: Ensure nets are guided correctly during filling to prevent damage.
   • Quality of Shelving: Ensure shelving is straight and free from protrusions that can tear nets.
   • Temperature: Avoid pulling nets when compost is too hot to prevent damage.
5. Durability and Maintenance
   • Growing Nets: Should last for many years with proper care.
   • Composting Nets: Generally last for 40-50 pulls, but this depends on the quality of the net and tunnel setup.
   • Cleaning: Use water without chemicals to clean nets. Be cautious with high-pressure washing to avoid damaging the fibers.
6. Composting Nets Specifics
   • Types and Strength: Different nets for varying pulling weights. Suppliers will provide nets based on specified weight capacity.
   • Gliding Nets Installation: Depends on tunnel construction. Can be fixed with ropes or rubber depending on the setup.
7. Using and Replacing Nets
   • When to Replace: Nets lose strength over time and usage. Look for signs like thinning and damage.
   • Phase Two vs. Phase Three Composting: Phase two is easier on nets than phase three. Consider using older nets for phase two.

Conclusion

The webinar provided comprehensive insights into selecting, using, and maintaining nets for mushroom farms and compost yards. It emphasized the importance of quality materials, proper usage techniques, and regular maintenance to extend the life of the nets and ensure efficient operations.