The publication “Materials and structures for fruit tree cover” in Agriplastics Community explains the effects of plastic covers on crops, when and why crops should be covered, the benefits of materials for fruit tree cover, the main materials used, types of structures, among other topics.
The use of materials and structures to cover fruit trees has revolutionized agriculture, allowing for more efficient and better quality production. According to Juan García, director of the company Sotrafa In Spain, the use of plastic covers not only protects crops from adverse weather conditions, but also improves production by modifying the microclimate and the physiological response of plants. This is especially crucial in regions with unpredictable climates, where the investment in these materials is justified by the significant increase in the quantity and quality of the fruits produced.
It is essential for farmers to choose the structure and type of cover that best suits their specific needs. For example, combining different types of plastics and nets can provide optimal protection and increase crop profits. Garcia emphasizes the importance of analyzing production goals to avoid incurring unnecessary costs.
The impact of these technologies is evident in cases such as Chile, where plastic covers have made it possible to maintain a constant production of cherries for export to demanding markets such as China. Similarly, blueberry production has grown significantly in countries such as Peru, Mexico and Morocco, thanks to favourable climatic conditions and the use of agricultural plastics. These advances not only benefit local producers, but also strengthen the competitive position of these countries in the global market.
For more details, you can access the full publication at the following LINK.