Greenhouse Shade Materials
Adding shade fabric to a greenhouse can significantly lower summer cooling costs by increasing the efficiency of your existing cooling system. Hanging shade cloth in a greenhouse also lets you control the amount of light based on the conditions in which different plants thrive. Finally, the versatility of a shade canopy or sun shade sails allows you to reclaim your scorching hot patios and pergolas.
These are just some of the few great benefits that come with greenhouse and patio shade cloths, so beat the heat and browse our collection of shade materials and structure covers today. Not every plant or person always wants or needs direct sunlight, and with these panel cloths and shade sails, you can dictate how much sun any area gets.
Greenhouse Shade Cloth Supplies
Greenhouse Megastore has the right shade cloths and accessories so everyone and everything can stay cool. We'll help you find shade materials for greenhouses or personal use, with bulk options available for larger and commercial gardens.
Fabrics are available in light, medium and heavy densities with a finished or unfinished edge. Choose Tape knitted Mono knitted, or woven shade cloth in black, silver, green and tan. If you prefer a sun sail shade, we offer them in square and triangle shapes. Use them in the backyard or take them on camping and hiking trips for a great way to cover up from the sun.
You can order pre-cut shade cloths and sails in many sizes along with bulk rolls for custom projects. Some shade materials are available by the foot if you know the amount you need. Finished shade panels have a finished edge with metal grommets for hanging and tying them together.
Want to keep the sun out with no fabric necessary? Use shade compounds that can be sprayed or brushed onto a surface. We have seasonal, year-long and permanent shading formulas.
Choosing the Right Shade Material for Your Climate and Plants
Shade fabrics come in various colors and shade percentages, each offering different levels of light filtration and heat control. Black, green, silver, and tan materials influence light diffusion and heat absorption, while densities ranging from light to heavy determine how much sunlight reaches your plants. Selecting the right combination ensures crops receive the proper balance of light, temperature moderation, and airflow based on your climate and plant varieties.
Performance Benefits of Modern Knitted Shade Cloth
High-quality knitted HDPE shade cloth provides long-lasting UV protection for structures and for plants sensitive to heat and UV exposure. Its open lock-stitch design allows for excellent airflow, reduced wind resistance, lower heat buildup, and natural water permeability. These fabrics also help reduce soil moisture loss by minimizing evaporation and are resistant to common horticultural chemicals and sprays, supporting durability season after season.
Installation Tips for Large or Wind-Prone Applications
Proper installation ensures your shade cloth performs effectively, especially in large spans or windy environments. Use reinforced edges or grommeted panels, secure the cloth to support wires or cables, and tension the material evenly without overtightening. Flexible connectors such as bungee ties help absorb wind movement, while additional anchor points and periodic inspections keep the fabric secure and long-lasting.
Shade Material Quantity and Quality
Greenhouse Megastore has the best plant shading supplies with options for both professional gardeners and passionate hobbyists. Take advantage of our unconditional one-year guarantee. When you add in that we match any online competitor's price, you receive unbeatable value on every greenhouse project.
Do you have questions about greenhouse shade materials? Call us Monday to Friday at 1-888-281-9337. A sales associate will help you determine the best shading option to protect plants, people and pets. We're here for DIY and commercial growers with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee and Price Match Policy.
For all of your greenhouse, garden protection and other outdoor living needs, we hope you'll partner with us here at Greenhouse Megastore.
Shade Material FAQs
What percentage of shade cloth do I need for my plants?
Shade percentage depends on plant type and climate. Vegetables and ornamentals often use 30–50% shade, while ferns and tropicals may require 60–80%. Hot climates may benefit from higher percentages to limit heat stress.
Is knitted shade cloth better than woven options?
Knitted HDPE shade cloth is lightweight, UV-resistant, and does not unravel when cut. It also handles wind more effectively thanks to its open lock-stitch design. Woven options are more rigid but can be suitable for long-term, heavy-duty applications.
Does shade cloth reduce the need for watering?
Yes. By limiting direct sun exposure and reducing heat buildup, shade material can help minimize evaporation, allowing soil to retain moisture longer and reducing irrigation frequency.
Can shade cloth withstand horticultural chemicals?
Most high-quality shade fabrics, especially HDPE varieties, are chemically resistant, meaning they tolerate fertilizers, detergents, fungicides, and other greenhouse treatments without degrading.
How does shade cloth improve ventilation?
The open stitching in knitted shade fabrics promotes natural airflow, reducing heat accumulation and allowing better humidity control inside greenhouses and outdoor structures.
