Impact of Shade Nets on the Quality and Shelf Life of Carrot (Daucus carota) in Jos, Plateau State

Carrot (Daucus carota) production in Nigeria is concentrated in the high-altitude areas of Plateau State, where the cool temperate climate provides favorable conditions for root development. Despite productive potential, post-harvest quality deterioration and short shelf life remain persistent challenges for carrot farmers and marketers in Jos. This study investigates the impact of shade netting (35%, 50%, and 75% shade levels) on the physical quality attributes and shelf life of harvested carrots stored under ambient conditions in Jos, Plateau State. Carrots grown under the different shade treatments were harvested at maturity and evaluated for weight loss, firmness, surface color, moisture content, and marketable life over a 21-day storage period. A completely randomized design with three replications was used. Results reveal that carrots grown under 50% shade nets retained significantly higher firmness and lower weight loss after 14 days compared to open-field controls. Carrots grown under 75% shade exhibited the longest shelf life but lower beta-carotene content. The study recommends 50% shade netting as the optimal treatment balancing quality retention and nutritional value for carrot producers in Plateau State. These findings have practical implications for improving the commercial value of carrot production in North Central Nigeria's highland horticulture sector. Keywords: shade nets, carrot, shelf life, Daucus carota, Plateau State