Researchers at North Carolina State University found that using a new, three-dimensional textile called Plant Armor to cover strawberry plants increased strawberry fruit yields by as much as 3.56 times, without negatively impacting relative humidity or light access. The multiple layers of the textile allow sunlight, rain and airflow to reach the plant but prevent access by insect pests. Researchers say this could help provide an alternative to insecticide use. The Plant Armor cover also provided a warming effect that helped the strawberry plants fruit earlier. The Plant Armor fabric was developed as a spinoff of textile research for military uniforms.
