Using reflective cloth as an orchard mulch in the final weeks leading up to harvest is a well-established practice in certain pipfruit varieties. The goal is to enhance fruit colour and ensure even colouring across each piece of fruit on the tree.
Typically made from white UV-stabilised polyethylene, these reflective ground covers are also used as greenhouse flooring to increase light all around the plants, supporting improved photosynthesis, plant growth and fruit yield. Fruitfed Supplies offers several options for reflective ground cover, including the heavy-duty Ultramat from Cosio Industries.
Craig Williams, Merchandise Sales Supervisor at Fruitfed Supplies Hastings, recently supplied Ultramat to Chris Garland of Southwood Orchard, who needed to replace ageing and undersized reflective cloth ahead of the 2025 harvest of his Dazzle apple block. “We were able to offer Chris the premium-grade white Ultramat, which is ideal for both greenhouses and orchards,” says Craig.
“It has a life expectancy of four to five years and is designed to be robust and reliable.”
Reflective cloth from Empak was laid in some rows in Chris’ Dazzle block. This slightly lighter product with a wider weave, remained in very good condition and did not need replacing.
Craig says, “During a pre-harvest visit to the orchard, we observedstrong results in terms of even, all-over fruit colour in rows whereeither Ultramat or the Empak cloth was used.” Ultramat is a 108 gsm, UV-stabilised polyethylene reflective matting with tucked edges and a blue planting lines every 300 mm. Its heavy-duty supports airflow and water permeability, making it practical for use in orchard conditions. Installation options include Cosio plastic pins or steel staples for indoor use, with bungee cords and clips available for orchard settings.
Growers considering reflective cloth for the 2026 harvest are encouraged to speak with their local Fruitfed Supplies Representative before the end of October to ensure timely delivery
ahead of the season.
Contact your Fruitfed Supplies Representative today to discuss your reflective mulch requirements.
