How To Choose The Right Netting Size

Christmas Tree Netting Size Guide

Christmas tree netting size is one of the most common questions we get from tree farms and retail tree lots. Using the wrong size netting slows down baling, damages trees, and increases material costs.

This guide explains how to select the correct netting diameter, length, and type based on your tree size and operation.

Why Netting Size Matters

Choosing the proper Christmas tree netting:

  • Speeds up baling
  • Protects branches during transport
  • Improves customer handling
  • Reduces wasted material
  • Prevents trees from reopening during shipping

Many operations use netting that is too large, which increases cost per tree and reduces compression strength. With less compression, fewer trees can be loaded onto a tractor trailer.

Recommended Netting Sizes by Tree Height

Tree Height Recommended Netting
3–5 ft trees 8" diameter
6–8 ft trees 10" diameter
8–10 ft trees 12" diameter
10–12 ft trees 14" diameter
12 ft and taller 16"+
IMPORTANT: For best results in production balers, use netting approximately 2" smaller than the funnel diameter.

Example: A 10" diameter funnel should use 8" netting.

Most Fraser fir and Balsam fir production operations primarily use 8" or 14" netting.

Garden centers and retail lots typically re-wrap trees for customers using 18" to 23" netting.

Production Netting vs Retail Netting

Production Netting (8", 10", 12", 14", 16")

  • Used on Christmas tree farms for maximum compression
  • Industry standard packaging size
  • Easy cardboard cartridge installation

Retail Netting (18", 20", 23", 26")

  • Used in garden centers and retail tree lots
  • Sized for easy hand pull operation
  • Allows customers to bring trees inside homes more easily
📞 Need help choosing?
Call our office for recommendations and freight quotes.

Downey-Roberge Plantations

Address

418 route 108, Cookshire-Eaton, Quebec, Canada, J0B 1M0

Phone Support

Monday to Friday (9am to 5pm)

Email

netting@downey-roberge.com