Generative and Vegetative Traits of the 'Granny Smith' Apple Grown under an Anti-Insect Photoselective Red Net

Anti-insect photoselective nets present a new technology that combines light manipulation and pest protection in orchards. In this study, the effect of anti-insect red net on generative vegetative traits was studied an apple orchard near city Zadar, Croatia. 'Granny Smith' apples were grown M9 rootstock raised as slender spindles. The experiment consisted two treatments: trees covered with (AGRITECH S. r. l., Eboli, Italy; mesh size 2.4 × 4.8 mm) uncovered control. Yield, percentage fruit diameter >70 mm mass not significantly different between treatments. L* color value higher skin under net, there no significant difference other values (a*, b*, C* h°). Soluble solids concentration (SSC) total flavonoid content lower than control, titratable acidity (TA), SSC/TA ratio, starch degradation Streif maturity index. Red proved to be effective against blush development (undesirable trait for apple) sunburn damage occurrence.