Effects of shading nets on sunburn and quality of 'Granny Smith' apple fruits

Sunburn causes some damage to apple orchards and it results from heat stress to the fruit leading to injury of the affected cells. A net shield is a good option for protection of apple trees against damage by hail, strong wind, and birds. Also, it reduces sunburn and russeting of fruits, provides better color and skin uniformity. This study was carried out to determine the effects of two different light transmission shade nets (black and white) on 'Granny Smith' apple fruits sunburn and quality. The experiment was conducted in commercial apple orchard in Denizli, west part of Turkey during two consecutive years (2012-2013). Fruit sunburn ratio was 24% under open sky (without net) condition. Black or white shading nets reduced sunburn of fruits without negative effects on fruit quality and maturation.