Mineral Nutrients, Physiological Disorders, Postharvest Water Loss, and PR Gene Expression in Bell Pepper (<i>Capsicum annuum</i> L.) Fruit under Shade Nets

Abstract Shade nets can be an effective technology for producing bell pepper ( Capsicum annuum L.) under hot climatic conditions. However, the effects of shading on fruit quality are still unclear. The objectives were to evaluate shade level mineral nutrient content, physiological disorders, and postharvest water loss. Trials conducted in spring–summer 2016, 2017, 2018 Tifton, Georgia, USA, following a randomized complete block design with five levels: 0% (open field), 30%, 47%, 63%, 80%. Shading increased dimensions (length, diameter, weight) 2016 content 2017. Fruit sunscald incidence decreased increasing level, while blossom-end rot showed inconsistent responses. Postharvest loss transpiration rates highest fruits from unshaded treatment 2016; there no differences among levels. NONEXPRESSOR OF PATHOGENESIS-RELATED 1 NPR1 ) PR1 genes expressed more than 1.5-fold 10-fold, respectively, at 47% compared 80%, though not significantly. Therefore, plants grown had greater size, reduced control.