The production of blueberries in conditions of high radiation and temperature requires a precise management of the microclimate to maximize photosynthesis without generating thermal stress, photoinhibition, or fruit dehydration. The Agrifresh RR net, developed and patented by Agralia Group, combines technological innovation and field results, offering an optimal environment for cultivation.
Agrifresh RR incorporates micro-encapsulated aluminum particles in HDPE, which disperse light in a diffuse manner and modulate temperature. This improves the luminous distribution inside the canopy and creates a more stable microclimate, reducing thermal peaks and water stress.
The trial on blueberries compared a witness 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 at 20 cm from the leaf decreased from 1.6-2.0 kPa to 1.1-1.4 kPa, favoring partial stomatal closure, better turgidity, and less fruit dehydration.
Microclimatic effects observed under mesh Variable: Witness – Agrifresh RR – Physiological effect Leaf temperature: 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 turgidity 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 fruit dehydration 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: Witness – Agrifresh RR – Interpretation Yield: — – +79% – Higher floral set and retention 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 a shade, but as an advanced microclimate management system, reducing DPV, modulating temperature, and increasing diffuse light. This allows for higher yields, better quality, and longer-lasting fruits, demonstrating that protection is not blocking light, but optimizing plant physiology.