Effect of intense colour shades on the growth and yield of ‘Fronteras’ strawberry

Abstract Research on strawberry cultivation using nets has dealt with shade factors below 50%. Our research investigated the performance of strawberry under a diffuse-polyethylene tunnel with an extra reduction of radiation by blue, beige and black nets (80% shade). ‘Fronteras’ strawberry plants were grown below three net treatments (blue, beige and black) and compared with plants without shade netting. They were compared in a randomized complete block design with three replications and four bags (plants) per experimental unit. Spectra behaved differently below nets. Also, photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) was higher for the plants without shade netting followed by the beige, blue and black nets (646.2, 314.1, 248.5 and 144.4 μmol m −2 s −1 , respectively). Black nets resulted in lower leaf SPAD (Soil Plant Analysis Development) chlorophyll index (45–49 units), and there were no differences among the other treatments in this variable. Compared with the treatment without nets, blue and black nets reduced final total dry weight and blue and beige nets decreased final root-to-shoot ratio; also, blue and black nets increased specific leaf area. Fruit size was not affected by treatments, but black and blue nets decreased yield. Plants under beige nets had a yield similar to plants without shade netting. Apparently, strawberry under intense beige shades may perform relatively similar to plants under plastic tunnels. Significance of the study What is already known on this subject? Shade nets are innovative tools used in horticulture which modify light environment below them. Colour added to shade nets has effects on physiology and morphology of the plant that may benefit plant performance. What are the new findings? Strawberry plants thrive under intense shade resulting from shade factors of 80% of the shading nets. Colour of the net affects differently but plants under beige net may grow and yield similarly to plants without shade. What are the expected impacts on horticulture? A higher shade factor of nets may be used in strawberry culture in a changing environment challenged by increasing temperature and reduced relative humidity.