Should I Put Netting Over My Tomato Plants?

If you're a tomato grower, you know that one of the biggest challenges you face is keeping pests and critters away from your plants. Deer, rabbits, birds, and other animals all love to feast on tomato plants, which can be frustrating for gardeners. One solution that many people turn to is netting. But, is it really necessary to put netting over your tomato plants? Here are some things to consider.

What Are the Benefits of Netting?

There are several benefits to using netting to protect your tomato plants. First and foremost, netting can prevent birds and other animals from getting to your tomatoes before you do. This can help you get a better harvest and reduce frustration from lost crops. Additionally, netting can help keep your plants free from disease by reducing the spread of viruses and other pathogens carried by pests.

What Are the Drawbacks of Netting?

While netting can be helpful, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest concerns is that netting can actually trap animals, leading to injury or death. This can happen if a bird or other small creature gets tangled up in the netting and can't escape. Additionally, netting can be unsightly and may detract from the beauty of your garden.

How Can You Mitigate the Drawbacks?

If you're worried about the drawbacks of netting, there are some steps you can take to mitigate the risks. For example, you can choose netting that is designed to be wildlife-friendly, which should reduce the chances of animals getting trapped. Additionally, you can choose netting that blends in with your garden, making it less noticeable. Finally, you can be careful to monitor your netting regularly and remove any animals that get caught as soon as possible.

Are There Other Ways to Protect Your Tomato Plants?

If netting isn't right for you, or if you want to explore other options, there are several other ways to protect your tomato plants. Fencing is one option, which can be effective at keeping large animals like deer out of your garden. Planting repellent plants, like marigolds or garlic, can also help keep pests away from your tomatoes. Finally, you can use deterrents like noise makers or scarecrows to scare away birds and other animals.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision to use netting on your tomato plants will depend on your individual preferences and needs. Netting can be effective at keeping pests away, but it's important to be aware of the potential drawbacks and take steps to mitigate them. If you decide not to use netting, there are still plenty of other options to protect your tomatoes and get a great harvest.