Build-a-balls

[Jude]

Has anyone out there tried using 'build-a -balls' as a support for netting? I was thinking of trying it over redcurrant bushes, using bamboo canes but wonder if the structure would be strong enough.

[sandersj89]

It should be OK.

If you cant find enough proper balls old tennis balls work very well, drill out the holes and they grip the canes very well.

Jerry

[Lisa]

That's a good tip about the tennis balls Thank you!

[Jude]

Seems like ages ago I asked this question! Today I made myself a very respectable looking, if temporary, cage to go over the redcurrants using the cane and tennis ball method. They're old bushes which had got very overgrown, but I've pruned and nurtured them over the last two years so am hopeful of a reasonable crop this year while I wait for their cuttings to reach maturity. Think I might try the cane and ball thing over my brassicas (lower, of course), think it just might work.

[Beryl]

We use the build-a-ball to cover veggies with netting. Works well, but you do need patience and to make sure the canes are all the right size and length. Some can be narrow one end and they tend to slip out.
The holes in the balls are angled so not quite the same as punching holes in a tennis ball. The are also much heavier making them more stable.

Lay the canes out on the ground first before you start to erect. See my Diary for 2004 covering sprouts.

http://www.saundersallotment.co.uk/Diary%202004.html

Best of luck.
Beryl.