bessengaas

Bessengaas is a lightweight protective netting used in horticulture, primarily to safeguard berry crops such as strawberries, raspberries, and currants from birds and other pests. The name derives from the Dutch words bessen (berries) and gaas (gauze or netting).

Construction and use

Bessengaas is typically made from synthetic fibers such as polypropylene or polyethylene, though cotton variants exist. It features an open weave that forms a grid or diamond-shaped mesh, with mesh sizes varying to suit different pests. The fabric is breathable and allows light, air, and rainfall to pass through. It is sold in rolls or sheets and can be placed over crops using hoops, frames, or direct laying over the plants. Covers are usually temporary and removed or opened during flowering for pollination if needed, and replaced as fruit develops.

Applications and benefits

The netting is commonly deployed in home gardens and on commercial berry farms to reduce damage from birds and certain insects, potentially lowering the need for chemical controls and helping to extend the harvest window. It offers a physical barrier rather than a chemical one and can be reused across growing seasons with proper care.

Limitations and care

Bessengaas can be labor-intensive to install and remove, especially over large areas. It may impede pollinator access if covering flowering plants, and poor installation can lead to gaps that pests exploit. Debris and moisture can accumulate on the netting, so regular inspection and maintenance are recommended. When not in use, nets should be cleaned and stored dry to extend their life.