For best results using your AviGard Flex bird nets please follow the guidelines below:
Step 1 - Remove Bundle Ties
Open package and remove ties used to keep netting bundled during transport. For largest nets this may be done while net is still in the bag. If using a knife or scissor to cut bundle ties, be careful to avoid cutting the net.
Step 2 - Locate Pair Of End Corners
Look for colored flagging that mark net corners. Be sure to locate 2 adjacent corners on one narrow end of the net (see Figure 1). For longer nets, ends of net will be tied in a knot to make finding the corners easier. At least one knotted end will be on the outside of the bundle.
Step 3 - Open One End Of Net Completely
To be sure net is properly aligned, open the net to its full width on one end. The diamond meshes should appear to be almost uniform on all four sides as the net is installed. If the diamond meshes appear elongated the netting has not been fully opened and will result in the net being too narrow (see Figure 2). To achieve the proper installed width, expand leading end of net fully before starting to deploy.
Step 4 - Install Flex Diamond Mesh Net
Flex Diamond Mesh Nets are designed to install directly on rows of grape vines, berry bushes and other crops with the aid of a netting applicator or other implement with a boom to elevate the net above the row during installation (see Figure 3).
Please Note: Flex Diamond Mesh Nets must be fully expanded width-wise while draping down the length of the row. Avoid pulling or stretching the net length-wise before it has been fully expanded across its entire width. Improperly pulling or stretching length-wise will cause the net to become too narrow and prevent proper installation. If using a netting applicator machine, the net should be opened fully by helpers on each side of the row positioned no more than 15ft behind the applicator to make sure the net is fully opened width-wise during installation.
A Word About Cutting:
Flex nets can easily be cut to size without unraveling. If cutting to fit shorter rows < 100ft, install netting from one end of the row leaving about 10ft–15ft of extra net at the beginning of the row. After installing net the entire row length, leave another 10ft–15ft of net beyond the row end. Doing so will leave a “cushion” of extra netting to help compensate for future canopy growth. For longer rows, those beyond 100ft, a good rule of thumb is to leave 5%–10% of extra net on each row end.
Storage Note: AviGard Flex Bird Nets are for seasonal use only. To achieve proper field life, store Flex Bird Nets in a dry location, away from chewing rodents and protected from sunlight.
Download the Full Installation Instructions (PDF)