Next week I will pour the footings for a new 8 x 12 shadehouse. While I have planned out every detail, one is still bothering me, shade cloth percentage. Currently, all my plants are in full sun. My biggest problem is with temps and humidity. Even in the winter months the newest leaves and pitchers will wilt slightly around noon. I believe they could be producing more pitchers that last longer. Finally, I'm running out of space in the driveway, every new acquisition means less room for cars!
The new shadehouse will offer much more space and hopefully better conditions. One big upgrade will be the addition of a misting system. I plan to incorporate this system (recommended by favian). When hooked up to a RO unit I will be able to keep humidity up and grow helis and live sphagnum around the neps. I am however having trouble deciding on a shade cloth percentage. While some people swear by 30% or full sun, I have also heard of those who use 70-80%. While I want to reduce the lighting I don't want to eliminate it completely! Right now I am contemplating 40 or 50% cloth. However I still very undecided. I know there are quite a few growers here with neps outside (greenhouse or not). What works for you?
edit: Would esp like to hear from Hawaii growers. What percentage do you use and where did you get it?
The new shadehouse will offer much more space and hopefully better conditions. One big upgrade will be the addition of a misting system. I plan to incorporate this system (recommended by favian). When hooked up to a RO unit I will be able to keep humidity up and grow helis and live sphagnum around the neps. I am however having trouble deciding on a shade cloth percentage. While some people swear by 30% or full sun, I have also heard of those who use 70-80%. While I want to reduce the lighting I don't want to eliminate it completely! Right now I am contemplating 40 or 50% cloth. However I still very undecided. I know there are quite a few growers here with neps outside (greenhouse or not). What works for you?
edit: Would esp like to hear from Hawaii growers. What percentage do you use and where did you get it?