In experiments in West Virginia, a kaolin particle film was tested as an alternative to a plastic mulch for promoting red color, with surprising results. Scientists who experimented with a sprayable reflective film on the orchard floor, as an alternative to a Mylar film for improving fruit color, were surprised to discover that the sprayable film improves fruit size. Growers commonly lay reflective plastic films beneath or between orchard tree rows to reflect light back up into the trees and enhance fruit color. Dr. Michael Glenn, soil scientist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Appalachian Fruit Research Station in Kearneysville, […]