Seal adorns greenhouse entrance, bringing joy to owner after overcoming various challenges.
In an unexpected discovery, home gardeners are finding success in using old lace curtains as a low-cost, eco-friendly solution to protect their greenhouses from pests and unwanted visitors. This innovative approach, which has been gaining traction, offers a practical and budget-friendly alternative to commercial pest control methods.
**Lace Curtains: A Versatile Barrier**
Lace curtains, especially those repurposed from discarded interior decor, can serve as a simple yet effective physical barrier in greenhouses. Their mesh structure deters a variety of pests, including insects, birds, and small animals, while allowing good airflow and light transmission. However, the effectiveness of lace curtains depends on factors such as mesh size, durability, and installation method.
**Mechanisms and Practical Considerations**
Lace curtains can block flying insects like whiteflies and aphids from reaching plants, thanks to their fine mesh. However, very small pests such as thrips and mites may still pass through typical lace weaves. To optimise insect control, the mesh size should be as fine as possible.
For bird and animal deterrence, lace fabric can physically impede entry when secured over openings. The barrier must be taut and free of gaps to prevent animals from pushing through or finding entry points.
**Comparing Lace Curtains to Commercial Solutions**
Compared to commercial insect netting and plastic sheeting, lace curtains offer several advantages. They are more affordable, especially when repurposed, and allow better ventilation and light transmission. However, their durability may be lower than that of purpose-made greenhouse netting.
| Feature | Lace Curtains | Commercial Insect Netting | Plastic Sheeting | |------------------------|-----------------------------|----------------------------------|------------------------------| | Cost | Very Low (if repurposed) | Moderate | Low to Moderate | | Insect Barrier | Moderate (mesh-dependent) | High (mesh size options) | None (unless sealed) | | Bird/Animal Barrier | Moderate (if tightly secured)| High | Low (unless sealed) | | Durability | Low to Moderate | High | High | | Ventilation | High | High (mesh-dependent) | Low | | Light Transmission | High | High (mesh-dependent) | Low to Moderate |
**Practical Tips for Implementation**
To maximise the effectiveness of lace curtains, it is essential to inspect them for holes or weak spots before installation, secure them tightly over vents, doors, and other entry points, and layer them or combine them with other barriers for pests too small for the lace mesh.
**Limitations**
While lace curtains can provide significant pest control, they may not offer complete exclusion, especially against tiny insects or determined animals. For severe infestations, commercial netting or professional pest control may be necessary.
**Conclusion**
Lace curtains offer a creative, low-cost solution for greenhouse pest control, particularly against insects and birds. Their main advantages are affordability, good ventilation, and light transmission. For best results, use them as part of a broader pest management plan that includes monitoring, maintenance, and complementary control methods.
This innovative approach, shared by the author of the popular Dzen channel "A Little Garden at the Edge of the Universe," has proven to be effective in preventing the entry of unwanted guests, reducing the use of chemicals, and promoting a healthier, more sustainable gardening environment.
Lace curtains, being versatile barriers, can be used not only in home-and-garden settings but also in greenhouses to protect plants from pests and unwanted visitors, extending to a lifestyle that values eco-friendliness and budget-consciousness. To further boost their effectiveness in greenhouses, consider repurposing lace curtains from discarded home-and-garden decor for these purposes.
