- Net rolls: the most commonly used, these are excellent for olive trees positioned in precise rows. These nets unroll easily along the rows, covering larger areas in a single operation.
- Square netted nets with a central slit: These nets, available in sizes such as 8x8, 10x10 and 12x12, are suitable for those who do not have olive trees in rows. The central slit makes it easier to position the net around the trunk of the olive tree.
- Rectangular nets sold in pairs: (sizes 4x8 - 5x10 - 6x12): these are halfway between the two previous models and can also be used in two pieces, as they are shorter than a roll.
What are nets for collecting olives used for?
Olive harvest nets are used to simplify and make the olive harvest process more efficient while protecting the fruit from contamination with the ground. These tools are used in both professional and amateur agriculture, meeting different needs depending on the type of cultivation.
The nets are placed under the olive trees before harvesting to collect the falling olives, preventing contact with the ground that could damage the fruit or compromise its quality. In professional and industrial contexts, olive harvest nets optimise working times, reducing the labour required and increasing productivity. Hobbyists also benefit from the use of these nets, as they simplify the olive harvest in small olive groves, reducing physical effort and preserving the integrity of the crop.
Activities facilitated by the use of nets include:
- Manual harvesting: The nets facilitate manual harvesting as the olives fall directly onto them, ready to be picked up.
- Mechanical harvesting: In mechanical harvesting, the nets collect the olives that fall during the shaking process, minimising losses.
- Fruit protection: The nets protect the olives from direct contact with the ground, preventing contamination and damage to the harvest.
How are nets for olive harvest made?
Olive harvesting nets are designed to withstand the difficult conditions of harvesting and ensure long-term durability. These products are made from specific materials that provide strength and functionality even in the most demanding situations.
The nets are mainly made of anti-thorn and anti-recoil sheets. These materials are selected to withstand the forces and mechanical stresses during harvesting, ensuring that the nets do not tear or wear easily when in contact with branches and uneven ground. The anti-thorn fabric, in particular, is designed to withstand the thorns on the branches, preventing them from damaging the net.
A key feature of olive harvest nets is their construction with interwoven threads and connecting knots. This type of structure offers excellent resistance: if a thread breaks, the net does not unravel completely, maintaining its functionality. Unlike other sheets on the market, which can fray quickly if broken, these nets ensure that damage remains limited, extending the useful life of the product.
The sizes and shapes of the nets vary according to requirements. Rolled nets cover large surfaces with a single layer, ideal for olive groves with trees in rows. Square and rectangular nets, on the other hand, are more suitable for olive groves with irregular layouts or smaller spaces, allowing for greater versatility of use.
How are nets used for olive harvest?
The correct use of olive harvest nets is essential to maximise work efficiency and ensure protective measures for the fruit.
- Preparing the ground: Before starting the harvest, it is necessary to prepare the ground under the trees by removing any obstacles such as stones or branches that could damage the nets.
- Positioning the nets: The sheets are strategically positioned around and under the olive tree depending on the shape and size of the nets.
- Harvesting and lifting the nets: During harvesting, which can be done manually or with the aid of shakers, the olives fall onto the sheets, avoiding contact with the ground. Once harvesting is complete on one tree, the sheets are carefully lifted, gathering the olives in the centre of the sheet and then pouring them into the collection containers.
The process is repeated for each tree or group of trees, moving the nets and repositioning them as the harvest progresses. This method allows the olives to be harvested quickly and efficiently, maintaining the quality of the fruit and reducing the risk of damage.
Advantages of olive harvest nets
Olive harvest nets offer numerous advantages over other harvesting methods for both professionals and hobbyists. Compared to manual harvesting without the aid of nets or the use of more rudimentary methods, these nets provide a significant improvement in terms of efficiency, fruit protection and reduced working time.
- Protection of olives from contact with the ground: The nets prevent the olives from becoming dirty or damaged, preserving the quality of the harvest. This is particularly important for producing high-quality extra virgin olive oil, where the purity and integrity of the fruit are crucial.
- Reduction in harvesting time: Nets allow large quantities of olives to be harvested in a short time. By covering a large area with a single sheet, operators can harvest olives quickly without having to search for them one by one on the ground.
- Ease of use: Nets are easy to position and move, even in large olive groves. Roll, square and rectangular models offer different solutions to suit the specific needs of the terrain and the layout of the olive trees.
- Strength and durability: Thanks to their anti-thorn and tear-resistant materials, the nets are highly resistant to the harsh conditions of harvesting. Even if torn, their structure prevents fraying, ensuring a long service life and reducing replacement costs.
- Versatility of use: The nets can be used in a variety of contexts, from large-scale professional agriculture to harvesting in small domestic olive groves. The possibility of choosing between different shapes and sizes allows them to adapt to every need.
Types of nets for olive harvest
Olive harvest nets are divided into different types, each of which meets specific harvesting needs. The choice of the most suitable net depends on the configuration of the terrain, the layout of the olive trees and working preferences. The main types of nets available on the market include:
- Net rolls: Mainly used for olive groves with trees arranged in regular rows, they cover large surfaces in a single sweep.
- Square netted nets with a central slit: Ideal for isolated olive trees or those not arranged in rows, thanks to the central slit that allows the net to be positioned around the trunk.
- Rectangular nets sold in pairs: These offer an intermediate solution between rolls and square nets, allowing for versatile use in different contexts.
Net rolls
Net rolls are one of the most practical solutions for the olive harvest in olive groves with trees arranged in precise rows. These nets, available in various lengths, unroll easily along the rows, covering a large area in a single operation. Thanks to their linear structure, net rolls reduce the time needed to lay out and retrieve the net after harvesting. They are particularly suitable for large olive groves where long distances need to be covered quickly.
The strength of the material, combined with its ease of use, makes net rolls an excellent choice for those who want to maximise harvesting efficiency without compromising fruit protective qualities.
Square netted nets with central slit
Square nets with a central slit are the ideal choice for those who have olive trees that are not arranged in regular rows. These nets, available in different sizes such as 8x8, 10x10 and 12x12, are designed to wrap around the trunk of the olive tree thanks to the central slit that facilitates positioning. This design allows for uniform coverage under the tree canopy, ensuring that all olives fall onto the net and not onto the ground.
Square netted nets with a central slit are particularly popular in contexts where trees are spaced apart or arranged irregularly, offering an effective solution for harvesting olives with minimal effort.
Rectangular nets sold in pairs
Rectangular nets sold in pairs are a versatile option suitable for both regular and irregular olive groves. These nets, available in sizes such as 4x8, 5x10 and 6x12, can be used in single or double configurations depending on your needs. Their rectangular shape allows them to easily adapt to different terrain configurations, and the option of using two separate nets offers greater flexibility during harvesting.
This type of net is particularly useful in contexts where it is necessary to cover smaller or irregular spaces, offering a practical and modular solution for olive harvest.
Guide to purchasing nets for olive harvest
Purchasing the right olive harvest net is essential for optimising your work and obtaining a high-quality harvest. Before making your choice, it is important to consider a number of key factors that may influence your choice of the most suitable net for your needs.
- Size of the land and layout of the olive trees: If the olive trees are arranged in regular rows over large areas, net rolls are the ideal solution as they cover large surfaces in a single operation. For land with irregularly arranged olive trees, square nets with a central slit or rectangular nets sold in pairs offer greater flexibility.
- Type of harvesting: The choice of net may also vary depending on the harvesting method used. For mechanical harvesting, it is preferable to use sturdy, resistant nets that can withstand the stress of the shakers. For manual harvesting, lighter, easier-to-handle nets can be used.
- Materials and strength: It is important to assess the quality of the materials used to make the net. Anti-thorn and anti-tear nets are essential to prevent damage caused by branches and uneven ground. The presence of connecting knots in the net wires ensures that the structure remains intact even in the event of small tears.
- Ease of use and maintenance: Nets that are easy to lay out and collect can make a difference in terms of time and effort. In addition, nets that do not fray easily reduce the need for frequent replacements and lower long-term costs.
Types of customers and their needs
- Professional farmers: For those who manage large olive groves, sturdy, large-surface-area net rolls are recommended. These customers need durable nets that can quickly cover large areas, reducing labour time.
- Small producers: For those who own small olive groves, square nets with a central slit are a good choice. These nets allow you to cover the spaces around the trees precisely and without waste.
- Hobbyists and enthusiasts: Enthusiasts who harvest olives for personal use can opt for rectangular nets sold in pairs. These nets offer a flexible and modular solution that is easy to use even on uneven ground.
- Shaker users: Those who use shakers for harvesting should choose particularly resistant nets that can withstand mechanical action and best protect the crop.
The best brands of olive harvesting nets available on AgriEuro
Choosing a reliable brand is essential to ensure high-quality, resistant and durable olive harvest nets. AgriEuro offers nets produced by the best brands in the industry, each of which offers specific solutions to meet the different needs of olive growers.
- GeoTech olive harvest nets: GeoTech is a renowned brand for the production of olive harvest nets characterised by excellent strength and durability. GeoTech nets are designed to guarantee high performance even in demanding working conditions thanks to the use of innovative materials and advanced construction techniques.
Why buy nets for olive harvest from AgriEuro?
Buying olive harvesting nets on AgriEuro offers numerous advantages that make the shopping experience safe, convenient and satisfying. AgriEuro stands out for its attentive customer service and wide range of high-quality products designed to meet the needs of both professionals and hobbyists.
- Fast and free shipping: AgriEuro manages shipments directly from its logistics centres, ensuring fast delivery times at no additional cost. This allows customers to receive their nets quickly and start the olive harvest immediately without delay.
- Spare parts always available: Another great advantage of buying from AgriEuro is the ability to order spare parts that are always available. If necessary, customers can easily find and order spare parts to extend the life of their nets, avoiding the need to purchase new products.
- Attentive and personalised after-sales service: AgriEuro offers an after-sales service that supports customers even after their purchase. The team of experts is always available to resolve any issues, provide advice on how to best use the products and ensure maximum satisfaction.
Buying from AgriEuro means choosing quality, reliability and excellent customer service, guaranteeing a peaceful and worry-free shopping experience.
If you are ready to improve your olive harvest, discover the best offers on olive harvest nets at AgriEuro now!
FAQs on olive harvest nets
1. What should you use to harvest olives? What do you need for olive harvest?
To harvest olives, it is important to use specific tools that facilitate the falling of the olives from the trees and make the olive harvest easier. Among the main tools are:
- Olive harvesters: These are mechanical or electric tools equipped with telescopic poles and vibrating combs that shake the branches of the olive tree, causing the olives to fall to the ground. They are very effective and reduce the time needed for harvesting.
- Shakers: These are more powerful machines, often used professionally, which are applied directly to the tree trunk to shake it and cause the olives to fall. Shakers are particularly useful for large trees.
- Olive harvest nets: Once the olives have fallen, nets placed under the trees allow the fruit to be easily collected, preventing it from touching the ground and becoming damaged.
- Olive crates or other containers: After harvesting, the olives must be transported in suitable containers to prevent them from being crushed and to preserve the quality of the fruit.
2. How can you harvest olives without too much effort? How can you harvest olives quickly?
Harvesting olives can be a demanding activity, but with the right tools, it is possible to significantly reduce the effort and time required. Here's how:
- Electric or pneumatic olive harvesters: These mechanical tools greatly reduce the physical effort required. The harvester vibrates independently, causing the olives to fall without the operator having to shake the branches manually.
- Trunk shakers: Ideal for those who want to reduce the effort even further. The shaker is attached to the trunk and, once activated, shakes the entire tree, causing the olives to fall without the need for manual intervention.
- Correctly positioned olive nets: To avoid wasting time manually picking olives from the ground, the nets must be positioned so that they cover the entire area under the tree. This allows the fallen olives to be collected quickly.
3. How to position nets for collecting olives?
Positioning the olive harvest sheets correctly is essential to ensure that all fallen fruit is easily recoverable, minimising losses. Here is a step-by-step guide to optimal positioning:
- Choose the right net: First of all, make sure you use nets specifically designed for olive harvest that are strong and built to last. Nets come in various sizes and materials, such as polyethylene, which is strong and lightweight.
- Prepare the ground: Before laying out the net, remove any obstacles under the tree such as dry branches, stones or leaves that could damage the olives when they fall. A clean ground prevents the olives from being damaged or mixed with debris.
- Laying the net: Start laying the net near the tree trunk, making sure it covers the entire area under the canopy. The net should extend beyond the projection of the tree canopy to catch any olives that may fall to the side. The nets can overlap slightly if you are harvesting under several trees to avoid gaps.
- Lifting the edges: After laying out the net, lift the outer edges slightly inwards to create a sort of 'tub' that makes it easier to collect the olives in a single central point. This makes it easier to collect the olives once the olive harvest is complete.
- Securing the net: In windy conditions or on sloping ground, it is essential to secure the net to the ground. Use pegs or weights (such as sandbags) on the edges of the net to prevent it from moving during harvesting. This ensures that all fallen olives remain inside the net.
- Checking and adjusting: During harvesting, it is important to periodically check that the net has not moved or been damaged.
4. When is the right time to harvest olives?
The right time to harvest olives depends on several factors, including the type of oil you want to produce and the weather conditions. Here are some criteria for determining the ideal time:
- Olives ripeness: Olives are ready for harvesting when they reach an optimal degree of ripeness, which varies from green-yellow to black depending on the variety. To obtain a more fruity oil, slightly unripe (green) olives can be harvested, while for a sweeter oil, it is best to wait until they are more ripe (black).
- Weather conditions: It is important to harvest the olives before heavy rains or frost begin, as these can damage the fruit and compromise its quality. Usually, the ideal period is between October and December, depending on the geographical area.
- Oil analysis: In some cases, an oil ripeness test can be performed directly on a sample of olives to determine the best time for harvesting based on the level of acidity and polyphenols.
5. How can you tell when it's time to harvest the olives?
Understanding when it is time to harvest olives requires careful observation of some key indicators:
- Colour of the olives: Olives change colour as they ripen, turning from green to yellow to black. When most of the olives have reached the desired colour for the type of oil you want to produce, it is time to start harvesting.
- Flesh consistency: The flesh of the olives should be soft but still firm. When crushed, it should release a greenish oil. If the flesh is too hard or too soft, it may not be the right time.
- Natural fall: Another indicator is the natural fall of the olives. If you notice a lot of olives on the ground, it means they are ripe and ready for harvesting.
- Oil test: As mentioned above, a small oil extraction test can provide valuable information about the level of ripeness and the quality of the oil that will be obtained, helping you to decide whether to proceed with harvesting.