The effects of different particle film applications on almond trees

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Particle film applications have become common in agriculture today given the understanding of the effects of limiting high temperatures and solar radiation on plant physiology. This study was conducted to compare the effects of different particle materials on some physiological and fruit quality attributes of almonds. To achieve this, two non-transparent white solid and three transparent aqueous particle film materials were applied by foliar spraying on deficit irrigated almond trees (cv. Ferragnes). Membrane injury (MI), relative water content (RWC), the SPAD chlorophyll index, leaf temperature and some macro- and micro-nutrient contents were examined in addition to fruit sizes, weights, total oils and fatty acid compositions. The applied treatments significantly influenced the evaluated parameters, which indicated reduced stress and improved fruit quality. MI was found to be from 42.8 to 73.9%, RWC varied from 76.8 to 92.9%, and the K/Na ratio ranged between 103.3 and 521.0. As a result of this study, it was concluded that the observed improvements were due to the effects of the evaluated materials and that particle film applications can be beneficial in alleviating heat, light and water stress in almond trees.