2.4. Weather measurement
Monthly meteorological data from May 2008 to September 2009 from the meteorological stations in Aleksinac were used (Table 1).
The microclimates were similar under nets, with slightly lower values of temperature and air humidity than in open air.
The air temperature on an average day in July under different color shade nets was between 0.9 ◦C (pearl) and 3.0 ◦C (black) lower when compared to open field air temperature (control, Fig. 1).
Colorshade nets benefit in temperature control; they improve productivity by alleviating temperature extremes.
Since air movement is restricted, wind damage to the crop is reduced by more than 50% (data not shown) as is evaporation.
The air beneath the shade cloth remains humid which is of further benefit to the plant.