Effect of single and combined applications of zinc with iron and boron on the contents of “Deveci” pear trees

ABSTRACT

This research was conducted to correct the ion of zinc (Zn) deficiencies and to examine the efficiency of foliar Zn application on pear groves along with iron and boron. The treatments consisted of control, soil and foliar applications. Every foliar applied Zn elevated considerably Zn contents of the leaves. But, increases in fruit Zn contents were rather limited as compared to Zn contents of the leaves. It is thought that accumulation of Zn in the fruits was due to movement of Zn from the leaves well-supplied with Zn to the fruits. Therefore, foliar application of Zn should be conducted at least four times at the rate of 0.1% to increase Zn contents in the fruits in terms of human's daily Zn intake. Foliar applications of Zn alone and combined Zn + Fe, Zn + B and Zn + Fe + B applications significantly increased Zn, Fe and B concentrations, respectively, in the pear trees, as well.

KEYWORDS:

• application
• boron
• fruit
• iron
• leaf
• pear
• soil
• zinc

Acknowledgments

This study was conducted as a part of PhD Thesis at The Uludağ University, Institute of Natural Sciences, in the guidance of Prof. Dr. Haluk BAŞAR.