Microclimate, precision nutrition, and mathematical modeling: Physiological bases for modern blueberry production in warm climates

Abstract

Blueberry production in warm regions is constrained by the combination of high solar radiation and elevated temperatures, conditions that disrupt plant physiological homeostasis and reduce photosynthetic efficiency, nutrient uptake, and fruit quality. In northwestern Mexico, particularly in the Fuerte Valley, these factors represent major challenges for the cultivation of high-value commercial varieties. In this context, precision nutrition based on hydroponic fertigation constitutes a key tool for optimizing nutrient supply according to the physiological demand of the crop throughout its productive cycle. However, the efficiency of these systems largely depends on the microclimatic conditions in which the plant develops. The integration of high-precision nutrient management and microclimate control through photoselective shade nets represents an effective agronomic strategy to improve the physiological and productive performance of blueberry under warm environments. These nets act as filters that modify the spectral quality of solar radiation and reduce canopy radiant temperature, thereby promoting photosynthetic activity and plant growth. In parallel, nutrient uptake dynamics can be described using second-order polynomial regression models, which more accurately represent nutrient accumulation throughout the crop cycle and allow the optimization of fertigation programs. Overall, this integrated approach increases fertilizer use efficiency, improves productivity, and contributes to stabilizing fruit quality in intensive blueberry production systems under warm climates.