Kaolin and Salicylic Acid Sprays Alleviate Sunburn Incidence and Improve Fruit Quality in Kinnow Mandarin

Sunburn is a major constraint to citrus quality in arid regions, necessitating effective mitigation strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of foliar‐applied kaolin clay (2%, 4%, and 6%) and salicylic acid (300 ppm) on mitigating sunburn and improving fruit quality in Kinnow (2024–25). Foliar applications were made on 15 June, 15 July, and 15 August, 2024. The combined 6% kaolin + 300 ppm salicylic acid treatment (T 6 ) reduced sunburn incidence to 16.13% compared with 37.24% in the control, with minimal light (13.66%), medium (1.56%), and necrotic (0.62%) sunburn. Foliar application of 6% kaolin + 300 ppm salicylic acid also lowered fruit surface and canopy temperatures relative to the control, showing dose‐dependent cooling. Biochemically, 6% kaolin + 300 ppm salicylic acid‐sprayed fruits had lower proline and higher phenols, chlorophyll and carotenoids. Flavonoids rose with sunburn severity, peaking in necrotic fruit, while intercellular space decreased. Fruit quality improved with higher total soluble solids (TSS), sugars, vitamin C, and lower acidity. Physical attributes, including fruit weight, peel thickness, firmness, and peel colour, were also enhanced, resulting in increased yield. Overall, kaolin & salicylic acid integration proved effective for mitigating sunburn while enhancing resilience, fruit quality, and yield in Kinnow mandarin.