Prices last verified: September 2026 by Charles Okello, BSc Horticulture, Hortitechno Produce and Services.

Hortitechno offers shade net house farming solutions from Kes 100,000 which is affordable compared to greenhouse farming. Shade net house farming is a cost-effective, climate-smart method to protect crops and boost yields. With unpredictable weather patterns, rising temperatures, and growing market demands, shade net house structures offer a sustainable solution. This article explores the benefits of shade net house farming and guides you through affordable shade netting options available in Kenya and East Africa including various types of shade houses, their advantages, and where to find a shade house for sale.

Shade net house farming

Shade net house farming refers to the practice of growing crops under a protective structure made from shade netting stretched over a wooden or metallic frame to provide partial shade and shelter. This method allows filtered sunlight to reach plants while shielding them from excessive heat, strong wind, harmful pests, heavy rain, other environmental stressors and reduces temperature fluctuations. It is an intermediate solution between open-field farming and greenhouse production, offering both affordability and efficiency. It is effective for vegetables, herbs, flowers, seedlings, fencing and car parking.

Types of shade houses

They are designed to meet specific agricultural needs each serving different crops and farming goals from nursery raising to full-cycle vegetable production.

• Tunnel shade house: Ideal for large-scale farming operations.
• Walk-in shade house: Medium-sized structures for intensive crop production.
• Dome-shaped shade house greenhouse: Suitable for commercial farming with tall crops or vine crops.
• Custom backyard shade house: Designed for limited space around homes or compounds.
• Gothic: A more advanced design, proving better ventilation and structural integrity.

Common dimensions in Kenya

Small shade houses: (3m x 6m) to (8m x 15m) – Ideal for home gardens and backyard shade net houses.

Standard medium shade houses:(8m x 24m) to (8m x 30m) – Ideal for small commercial farms.

Large shade houses: (16m x 30m) – Suitable for comer intensive units.

Custom size: Available based on land size and crop requirements.

N/B: Shade net house prices The prices vary based on materials used, wooden or steel frames, size of the structure and shade net percentage.

Shade netting options

• 30% Shade netting: Suitable for tomatoes and fruiting crops.
• 55% Shade netting: General-purpose net for vegetables and herbs.
• 75% Shade netting: Ideal for nurseries and leafy greens like spinach.
• 90% Shade netting: For flowers and ornamental plants.

Where to buy affordable shade netting and shade house for sale

Looking for where to buy shades in Nairobi and other part in Kenya? At Hortitechno Produce and Services, we stock high-quality, affordable HDPE shade netting and complete shade house structures. The following are the shade net prices at Hortitechno: 30% at Kes 50, 55% at Kes 80, 75% at Kes 110 and 90% at Kes 210 per meters square.

Shade nets are also available in rolls. They come in rolls of 4m width and 50m length. They are available in three colours: green, black and white. Shade net roll price in Kenya range from Kes 16,000 to Kes 44,000 depending on the shade nets density. Our agricultural nets are breathable, they allow air circulation and moderate rainfall thus they are not waterproof shade nets.

Choosing the right shade net house design

A good shade house design ensures proper ventilation, light distribution, and drainage. When selecting or building a design:

• Consider your crop typeand climate.
• Ensure the structure can support the net weight.
• Allow for easy access and movement inside the shade house.
• For a backyard shade house, opt for modular, compact designs.

Advantages of shade net houses

1. Sunlight control: Regulates light penetration for optimal photosynthesis.
2. Temperature moderation: Reduces heat stress on plants.
3. Pest and disease protection: Acts as a barrier against destructive insects and birds.
4. Water efficiency: Minimizes water loss due to evaporation.
5. Reduce excess rainfall impact: They reduce direct impact on delicate seedlings and crops during heavy rainy seasons.
6. Minimizes wind damage: They reduce wind speeds, preventing leaf tearing, lodging, and desiccation ensuring better plant establishment.
7. Improved crop quality: Uniform growth and better post-harvest appearance.
8. Extended growing seasons: Protects crops from extreme weather.

What to consider before setting up a shadehouse

1. Site selection: Choose a flat well-drained location.
2. Size and layout: Determine these based on your needs, crop selection and available space
3. Shade net density: Select the appropriate shade net density based on crop requirement and climate.
4. Crop type: Determine whether you’re growing vegetables, flowers, or seedlings.
5. Climate: Match shade percentage to your regional temperatures and light intensity.
6. Budget: Consider construction materials and maintenance costs.
7. Irrigation system: Install drip lines or overhead misting for effective watering.
8. Accessibility: Ensure space for movement, harvest, and possible expansion.

Essential materials needed to put up a shade net house

• Shade nets: 35%, 55%, 75%, or 90% shading depending on crop needs. Can be either in green, black, white or aluminate colours.
• Support structure materials: Use metallic of treated timber poles
• Fastening materials: Nails, clamps, tapping screws and binding wires.
• Foundation materials: Cement, ballast and sand
• Other materials: Spade, measuring tape, hammer

How to build shade net house on a budget

1. Opt for simple design to reduce material and labour costs.
2. Use locally available frames such as woods.
3. Secure UV-treated shade netting with ropes, clamps, or nails.
4. Ensure the site is flat and well-drained.
5. Consider DIY construction to save on labour cost.
6. Consider raised bed for better soil management.

Maintenance tips for your shade net house

• Inspect for wear and tear regularly
• Replace sagging or torn nets quickly
• Clean the netting surface to prevent debris buildup
• During the off-season, roll and store nets in a dry place

Car Shade Net Price in Kenya

Beyond agriculture, shade nets are also used in parking areas to protect vehicles from sun damage. Our car shade net price in Kenya ranges between Kes 220 to Kes 250 per square meter, depending on the shading percentage and material weight. They are ideal for schools, offices, churches, and homes.

Why choose Hortitechno for your shade net house needs?

Hortitechno Produce and Services is a trusted supplier of shade netting, shade house greenhouse kits, and installation support in Kenya.

Our Offer Includes:

• Durable, UV-stabilized nets (5–8 years lifespan)
• Variety of shading percentages and colors
• Custom-cut sizes and full shade house kits
• Expert consultation on shade house design
• Delivery and installation support nationwide

Summary

Shade net house farming continues to transform agriculture by offering affordable, scalable solutions for modern growers. With various types of shade houses,smart designs, and practical advantages, this farming method is ideal for Kenya’s diverse climate zones. For reliable and cost-effective materials, contact Hortitechno Produce and Services your go-to supplier for every shade net house need and greenhouses.