The production of blueberries in conditions of high radiation and temperature requires precise management of the microclimate to maximize photosynthesis without generating thermal stress, photoinhibition, or dehydration of the fruit. The Agrifresh RR mesh, developed and patented by Agralia Group, combines technological innovation and field results, offering an optimal environment for cultivation. Agrifresh RR incorporates microencapsulated aluminum particles in HDPE, which disperse light in a diffuse manner and modulate temperature. This improves the luminous distribution within the canopy and creates a more stable microclimate, reducing thermal peaks and water stress.
The trial on blueberries compared a control without mesh (T0) with Agrifresh RR (T1), evaluating microclimate, physiology, and productive results. Among the most relevant findings is the vapor pressure deficit (DPV), a critical indicator of the plant’s water balance: the lower the DPV, the lower the transpiration and water stress.
Under Agrifresh RR, the DPV in the air 20 cm from the leaf decreased from 1.6-2.0 kPa to 1.1-1.4 kPa, favoring partial stomatal closure, better turgor, and less dehydration of fruits. Observed microclimatic effects under mesh: Variable | Control | Agrifresh RR | Physiological effect Temperature of leaf | 34-36 °C | 30-32 °C | Less thermal stress, less floral abortion DPV (20 cm leaf) | 1.6-2.0 kPa | 1.1-1.4 kPa | Partial stomatal closure, greater turgor Direct PAR radiation | 1900 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹ | 1500-1600 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹ | Avoids photoinhibition, maintains photosynthesis Relative humidity | 55-60% | 65-70% | Less dehydration of fruit Wind speed | 1.2 m/s | 0.6 m/s | Reduction of evapotranspiration
These changes explain the redistribution of energy in the plant: more towards maintenance and fruit retention, less towards individual growth. As a result, the tested variety showed: Parameter | Control | Agrifresh RR | Interpretation Yield | — | +79% | Higher flower retention and fruit set Caliber | 18.5 mm | 17.8 mm | Slight reduction due to energy redistribution Firmness | 73 Shore | 73 Shore | No changes Post-harvest | — | Better bloom and condition at 45+2 days | Greater fruit conservation
In conclusion, Agrifresh RR does not act only as shading, but as an advanced microclimate management system, reducing DPV, modulating temperature, and increasing diffuse light. This allows for higher yields, better quality, and more durable fruits, demonstrating that protection is not blocking light, but optimizing plant physiology.
Agrifresh RR is a technological innovation that combines field results with an optimal environment for cultivation, making it an ideal solution for blueberry farmers.
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