Layering contrasting photoselective filters improves the simulation of foliar shade.

Layering photoselective filters with contrasting effects on the spectral quality of sunlight results in more accurate simulations of foliar shade compared to when these filters are used separately. Layered filters can re-create the spectral motifs of moderate and deep foliar shade; they could be used to simulate shade scenarios found in different cropping systems. Photoselective filters offer numerous advantages over neutral density shade cloth and could be a direct replacement for researchers currently using neutral density shade cloth.