Influence of the Diffusivity and Transmittance of a Plastic Greenhouse Cover on the Development of Fungal Diseases in a Cucumber Crop

Mediterranean greenhouses are usually covered by plastic materials (films); these films allow light to pass through them, modifying some of their characteristics. The properties the cover influence development greenhouse crops. In addition, it can stresses that plants endure and fungal diseases in crop. aim this study is analyze effect an experimental film cover, with high transmittance diffusivity, produces on a cucumber crop (Cucumis sativus L.). Two different covers were compared: (i) commercial (transmittance 85%; diffusivity 60%); (ii) 90%; 55%). was carried out across two autumn–winter cycles multi-span divided into isolated sectors. Three caused main damage crop: downy mildew (Pseudoperonospora cubensis), powdery (Sphaerotheca fuliginia) gummy stem blight (Didymella bryoniae). case mildew, greater severity sector observed comparison film, significant statistical differences between sectors both cycles. Downy less presence than also