Why is this important?

During most of the production cycle in greenhouses in the Mediterranean basin, very high daytime maximum temperatures can be reached, with interior temperatures in the greenhouses reaching levels that are not compatible with the proper development of crops.

Excess solar radiation and temperature can cause water stress, which affects plant growth by reducing height, stem, root, leaf area, specific leaf weight, and plant biomass, as they influence the photosynthesis process.

To solve these problems, it is necessary to use some climate control techniques to reduce the effects. One of the most widely used techniques is whitening the greenhouse cover, which reflects light and thus reduces heat inside the greenhouse.

Shading greenhouses is an essential practice to control the temperature and radiation reaching our crops, preventing potential damage that these factors may cause. It is important to pay attention to both the dosage and the timing of whitening, as excessive light can lead to light saturation for the crop, and a lack of it can cause plants to elongate or even lead to flower abortion.