During the post-harvest period, a series of important processes occur in cherry plants, such as floral induction and differentiation, accumulation of carbon and nitrogen reserves, recovery of the root system, among others. Therefore, it is essential that the management carried out during this stage is aimed at optimizing the orchard for the next season.
One of the major threats of post-harvest is high temperatures and water shortages, which can cause, among other consequences, premature stomatal closure of leaves in fruit trees, which directly affects gas exchange and the ability to mobilize assimilated substances.
AM Ecological invites you to learn about WALLSUN 33®, a solution that effectively protects crops from damage caused by both solar radiation and thermal stress, which affect the normal metabolism of plants.
Thermal stress in crops is a real and widespread problem in agriculture that has been increasing year after year due to climate change and the increase in the Earth's temperature, which has had a great impact on the production, quality and final condition of fruit trees and crops. Traditionally, this problem has been addressed with the use of so-called sunscreens, products that, due to their ability to reflect sunlight, reduce the negative impact of UV rays on the skin of leaves, fruits and shoots; these sunscreens are basically formulated with suspensions based on kaolin and/or silicates, which, once applied, have the ability to reflect the sun's rays thanks to the formation of a thick whitish film on the surface of the treated organs. The effectiveness of these treatments is variable and will depend on the quality and granulometry of the products applied, the effectiveness of the application and the period of protection achieved with the products. Although it is possible to observe results in terms of reduced damage from sunstroke, other adverse effects of thermal stress (such as stomatal closure) cannot be effectively avoided, causing damage to crops as well. Additionally, there are other undesirable consequences, such as the difficulty in removing product residues from treated fruit, the formation of stains and even the increase in the incidence of attacks by certain pests such as phytophagous spider mites.
Thermal stress is a complex process that affects crop productivity and its level of efficiency in the use of resources, with water being one of the most affected; the water regulation of the plant, essential for its integrity and functionality, is exposed every time high temperatures and solar radiation force the plant to work at its maximum capacity, since the rate of water absorption from the soil responds directly to heat and light, among other factors; this is driven towards the roots by the differential in water potential that is generated mainly in the leaves due to transpiration, a process by which plants release water into the atmosphere. This mechanism ensures that the plant remains hydrated and in good condition, and its regulation will depend on the availability of water in the soil, the condition of the roots, the control of stomatal opening, the condition of the skin and cuticle of leaves, and the nutritional status as the most important factors. In mitigating the adverse effects that can be caused by episodes of thermal stress, the role of water and water balance is key, since if the plant is not able to maintain active transpiration, it will not be able to absorb water from the soil, which will have adverse effects on the capacity to dissipate heat or mobilize nutrients.
Considering the importance of maintaining water balance as the basis of any strategy to mitigate damage caused by thermal stress, AM Ecological makes available WALLSUN 33®, a tool that effectively protects crops from damage caused by both solar radiation (external protection) and those derived from excessive water loss and interruption of the transpiration flow (internal protection), since the primary effect of WALLSUN 33® on plants is the regulation of stomatal opening.
WALLSUN 33® It is the only product in its category formulated based on nutritional elements essential for plants (calcium and magnesium), which allows its use with a dual purpose: prevention of heat stress + foliar nutrition; This unique feature of WALLSUN 33® represents an indisputable benefit for farmers, allowing them to save on the number of applications per season and optimize the use of their equipment. WALLSUN 33® It is recommended for use in cherry trees in pre and post-harvest, as well as new plants.
For specific recommendations for use of WALLSUN 33®, please consult our technical department or our regional agents.
AM Ecological, the secret of fertile soils.
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