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Perspective Chapter: Effects of Microclimatic Modifications by Plastic Mulches and Shade Nets on Strawberry (Fragaria × Ananassa) Performance
Summary
This review paper looks at how farmers use plastic sheeting on the soil and shade netting above strawberry plants to control temperature and moisture, which can boost yield and fruit quality. The catch: while these methods can make strawberries sweeter and more resistant to disease, the plastic mulches can break down into microplastics in the soil over time, a growing concern since these tiny particles may end up in our food and water. The researchers suggest biodegradable alternatives as a way to get the farming benefits without the plastic pollution downside.
Microclimatic management is a key factor in optimizing the growth, yield, and fruit quality of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa). This chapter reviews the effects of microclimate modifications produced by plastic mulches and shade nets on strawberry performance and growing conditions. Plastic mulches modify soil temperature, conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, reduce evaporation, and influence fruit size, color, and sugar content. Shade nets regulate incoming radiation, air temperature, and relative humidity, thereby reducing excessive heat and water stress while creating more favorable conditions for vegetative development and fruit production. The combined application of plastic mulch and shading may produce complementary or synergistic effects by simultaneously modifying root-zone and canopy microclimates, potentially increasing yield, improving water-use efficiency, and reducing environmental stress and disease incidence. However, the effectiveness of these practices depends on mulch properties, shading intensity, environmental conditions, soil characteristics, and crop developmental stage. Excessive shading may reduce photosynthesis and sugar accumulation, whereas high humidity combined with moisture-retaining mulch may increase disease risk. Potential limitations also include plastic waste, microplastic accumulation, production costs, maintenance requirements, and difficulties in implementing shading systems on a large scale. Sustainable approaches, including biodegradable mulches, optimized shade-net designs, efficient water management, organic soil amendments, and appropriate plant density, can improve productivity while reducing environmental impacts. Overall, integrated microclimate management offers a practical strategy for improving strawberry resilience, fruit quality, resource-use efficiency, and production sustainability under variable growing conditions. These practices should therefore be selected and adjusted according to local climate, crop requirements, site conditions, and production objectives.