The Effect of Diffuse Film Covers on Microclimate and Growth and Production of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in a Mediterranean Greenhouse

The efficient use of light is one the most important factors for development greenhouse crops. It increasingly necessary to film covers that enhance transmittance and proportion diffuse generate a more homogeneous distribution. objective this study was evaluate effect an experimental cover with high diffusivity produces on microclimate growth yield tomato crops (Solanum lycopersicum L.), compared commercial thermal cover. trial developed during spring–summer growing cycle in multispan divided into two compartments (sectors) separated by vertical polyethylene sheet. In East sector, installed (transmittance 85% 60%) West used 90% 55%). results show increase marketable 0.25 kg·m−2 sector film, which represents 3.2% respect film. photosynthetic activity measured leaves 21.5% higher plants had highest transmittance. radiation 14% produced greater without generating inside air temperature at crop level (at height 2 m above floor). However, mean soil surface statistically side as logical consequence intercepted solar radiation.