EFFECTS OF SHADING ON STOMATAL RESISTANCE AND YIELD OF HAYWARD KIWIFRUIT

Kiwifruit vines (cv. 'Hayward') were developed under three different light conditions (O, 25 and 50% shading). Photosynthetically active radiation, specific leaf weight and chlorophyll content, as well as, vine characteristics, fruit weight and yield, were followed during the growing season. Leaves of vines grown under shading exhibited less fresh or dry weight (by 40–80%) and higher chlorophyll content (by 7–13%). Photosynthetically active radiation was higher in July and August and was directly reduced by shading treatments. Diurnal stomatal resistance in 50% shaded vines was higher compared to 25% or control shading. Vine characteristics (No of canes, fruiting shoots, flowers, and fruits) were considerably reduced under shade. Fruit weight and yield of shaded vines was reduced by 3–7 g and 4–6 kg, respectively.