A collapsible shade for lawn cultivation is mesh fabric sheet that is supported above an area of grass or other vegetation by a plurality of stakes. The mesh fabric sheet is made of a meshed, knitted or woven material that reduces penetration across the mesh fabric sheet by sunlight and moisture, providing a moist, cool environment for the vegetation below. A flexible frame is held within a perimeter frame sleeve around the mesh fabric sheet, providing a folding capability for storage. A fabric side skirt may be attached connected around the mesh fabric sheet and affixed to the plurality of stakes to prevent small animals from damaging the vegetation in the protected area.