n order to control sunburn damage on fruits and trunks and to reduce evapotranspiration in pomegranate trees, the application of orchard management techniques is essential. In this study, anti-radiation and general shading nets in green color, with porosity coefficient (mesh) or shading intensity of 30% and 50%, were evaluated on three pomegranate cultivars: Malas Yazdi, Rabab Neyriz Fars, and Shahvar, in a pomegranate orchard located at the Central Research and Education Station for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Yazd Province. The shading nets were applied from mid-May in 2021 and 2022. The experimental treatments were arranged in three replications, each consisting of three trees, and were evaluated until fruit ripening in mid-October of both years.The results indicated that shading significantly enhanced quantitative fruit traits. The highest fruit weight was recorded in Rabab Neyriz under 50% shading (305.43 g), the highest juice weight was obtained in Malas Yazdi under 50% shading (198.14 g), and the maximum yield index was observed in Rabab Neyriz under 50% shading (29.67). Furthermore, shading improved qualitative fruit attributes, including aril color, peel color, and fruit taste. The highest aril and peel coloration were achieved in Rabab Neyriz Fars under 50% shading. However, fruit ripening under shading was delayed by approximately 15 days compared to the control.
Regarding biochemical traits, shading had significant effects on total anthocyanin content, acidity, and soluble solids. For instance, in Malas Saveh under 30% shading, statistical differences were observed compared to its control. Ultimately, it was demonstrated that 30% and 50% shading treatments can enhance yield index, peel and aril color, and delay fruit ripening in Malas Yazdi, Rabab Neyriz Fars, and Malas Saveh cultivars. Keywords: pomegranate, shading net, sunburn, water-use efficiency, peel color, fruit quality |