Tomatoes are heavy fruiting plants that need strong light — so over-shading reduces yield. Most Kenyan tomato growers get the best results from moderate shading during the hottest part of the year rather than permanent deep shade.
Recommended Percentage
A 50% shade net is the standard choice for open-field and net-house tomatoes in Kenya — enough to reduce heat stress and sunscald on fruit without starving the plant of light.
Why It Helps
- Reduces blossom drop caused by excess heat
- Lowers water loss, cutting irrigation frequency
- Protects ripening fruit from sunscald
- Reduces wind damage to staked plants
When to Consider Higher Shading
Nursery-stage tomato seedlings benefit from a 75% shade net for the first few weeks before hardening off under lighter shade or full sun.
Growing tomatoes at scale? Get a shade net quote sized to your plot.