Solar radiation distribution,growth characteristics and photosynthetic characteristics of 15-years-old compact chestnut planting of ’Jinfeng’, ’Songjiazao’, ’Sticky floor’ and ’Green-wool soft-thorn’ were studied.The results showed that within chestnut canopy,the solar radiation intensity reduced sharply from top to down.The distribution of all kinds of branches and leaves,and the number of chestnut fruit distribution were influenced by the solar radiation distribution and showed certain regularity.When air temperature was proper,photosynthesis rate and light saturation point was higher.When the temperature was higher,photosynthesis was inhabited and the light saturation point lower.The photosynthetic rate of chestnut showed a double-peak curve in a day.