Influence of radiation interception and canopy temperature on fruit quality of Sardar guava at different planting distances

The influence of radiation interception and canopy temperature on fruit quality of Sardar guava under 3 different spacings (6 × 4, 6 × 5 and 6 × 6 m²) was studied. Trees spaced at 6 m² intercepted maximum radiation and showed maximum canopy temperature on per tree basis than 6 × 5 m and 6 × 4 m spaced trees. The upper part of tree canopy intercepted maximum radiation than the middle and lower canopy parts irrespective of planting distances. The fruit quality in terms of total soluble solids, acidity, total sugars and pectin content was significantly better in the fruits harvested from the trees spaced at 6 m² and in the upper part of tree canopy, while vitamin C content was higher in narrowly (6 × 4 m) spaced trees and in the lower part of tree canopy. In general, the upper part of tree canopy, irrespective of planting distances produced better quality fruits as compared to the middle and lower canopy parts.