ARS | Publication request: BENEFICIAL PHOTOSYNTHETIC AND HORTICULTURAL EFFECTS OF PARTICLE FILM APPLICATIONS ON PLANTS: DESTROYING THE DOGMA OF THE NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF DUSTS ON PLANTS

Submitted to: Entomology International Congress Proceedings
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: August 20, 2000
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Particle film technology utilizes inert mineral particles to envelope a plant in a protective and porous "particle film". Being porous, the particle film allows free exchange of water and carbon dioxide from the leaf during photosynthesis. The white mineral particles are reflective of infrared radiation and reduce the heat load on the plant. Laboratory, greenhouse, and field trials demonstrate that particle film technology is viable pest control practice for a wide range of insect and disease problems with additional horticultural benefits due to reduced heat stress. In field studies, reducing heat stress improved red apple color development while reducing sunburn damage and increased photosynthetic rates, yield, carrying capacity, and return bloom. These horticultural benefits demonstrate that particle film technology is not just limited to pest control. Particle films have the added benefits of reducing heat stress and improving safety to farm workers, consumers, and the environment.