Damage levels of sunburn in pineapple fruits submitted to natural and artificial protection

Abstract

Pineapple sunburn (SB) occurs mostly in regions with a high incidence of sunlight and temperature, causing damage to the fruits and financial losses for the producer. The objective of this study was to evaluate natural and artificial protection in the reduction of physical and physiological damage in pineapple, submitted to high temperature and sunlight. The experimental design was in randomized blocks with seven treatments: single planting of pineapple (cv. Pérola), with and without the protection of fruits with woven fabrics (TNT) and intercropping with cassava (cv. Amazonas) in different spacing in the row (0.40; 0. 60; 0.80; 1.00; and1.20 m), and three replications. For the study, a scale of damage level (DL) to the pineapple by SB was established, ranging from 0 to 4 (DL0 - 4). Chlorophyll content, mass of fruits and crown, percentage of fruits with SB, and commercial fruits were evaluated. The TNT uses showed maximum protection for the fruits, being all suitable for fresh consumption no damage (DL0). In intercropping, the spacing of 0.80 and 1.20 m is indicated to maximize fruit production and protection. The absence of fruit protection caused damage up to N4, with fruits strictly suitable for industry (70%) and disposal (13%). In an environment with high temperature and irradiation, the adoption of fruit protection is necessary. The planning of floral induction allows the fruiting to not coincide with the critical period of high solar incidence and temperature and can avoid the use of protection strategies. The intercropping of pineapple and cassava protects pineapple fruits against sunburn; moreover, its use does not leave inorganic residues in the environment; therefore, it is strongly recommended as a strategy to reduce sunburn in pineapple fruits.