Researchers are finding that a reflective mulch in the rows of a mature pear orchard can significantly increase yields by directing more light into the lower canopy. We are investigating application of Extenday reflective fabric to alleyways of fully mature d’Anjou pear canopies to determine whether or not fabric treatments influence intracanopy light levels, yield, fruit growth rate, final fruit size, and quality. D’Anjou is the dominant winter pear cultivar produced in the Pacific Northwest, and a large proportion of d’Anjou acreage is aged, planted at low densities, and characterized by large, inefficient canopy architectures. There is little incentive to […]