Mineral composition of leaves and flower buds in fruiting and non‐fruiting pistachio trees

Abstract

The effect of fruiting on mineral composition of leaves and flower buds in pistachio (Pistachia vera L., cv. Aegenes) was studied in two experimental years (1990 and 1992). Nutrient concentrations were measured in leaves and flower buds on fruiting and non‐fruiting pistachio trees at two week intervals from leaf emergence until the flower bud abscission of fruiting trees was completed. The results showed that the presence of fruit significantly increased the leaf concentrations of magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) throughout the whole period of measurement and that of nitrogen (N) only until the commencement of seed growth (in June). In contrast, fruit decreased leaf concentrations of potassium (K) (throughout the whole period) and that of N (after the commencement of seed growth and high rates of bud abscission). Phosphorus (P) and iron (Fe) concentrations in leaves were not influenced by fruit. The results for flower buds were similar to those for leaves for the nutrients K, Mg, Mn, and Ca, while P, Zn, and Fe tended to be higher in buds of fruiting trees. Nitrogen concentrations were higher in buds of fruiting trees.

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