Otimização da aplicação de um bio-estimulante para o aumento da produtividade e qualidade do morango

João F. Silva, Rita F. Pinheiro, Ana L. Amaro, Maria J. Pereira, Mariana Roriz, Ana Aguiar, Manuela Pintado, Marta W. Vasconcelos, Susana M. P. Carvalho*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

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Abstract

Biostimulants derived from natural products are being used by several strawberry growers to increase productivity and fruit quality. Given their high cost it is of utmost importance to carry out studies to validate their positive effect at plant level and to optimize their application. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of a commercial seaweed-derived biostimulant on yield and quality of strawberry produced in soilless cultivation system. Therefore, two application methods (fertigation and foliar application), two frequencies of application (every 15 and every 30 days throughout the cultivation period) and three doses of biostimulant (1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 l/ha) have been tested. In general, the application of biostimulant aiming at increased productivity proved to be more effective via fertigation compared to foliar application. The highest productivity was observed upon application of 4.5 l/ha every 15 days via fertigation (20% increase), with an increase in the total number of fruits produced (11%) and in the average fruit fresh weight (8%), compared to the commercial control (i.e. 1.5 l/ha every 30 days). As regards the quality parameters, there was a maximum increase of firmness (45%) when 4.5 l/ha of seaweed extract was applied via fertigation every 30 days. Foliar applications promoted the highest levels of soluble solids content and were efficient in maintaining the fruit brightness during storage. This study clearly showed that the method, dose and frequency of biostimulant application has a significant impact on the productivity and fruit texture.
Original languagePortuguese
Title of host publication2º Simpósio Nacional de Fruticultura
Pages380-388
Number of pages9
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2014
Event3º Simpósio Nacional de Fruticultura - Vila Real, Portugal
Duration: 4 Dec 20145 Dec 2014

Conference

Conference3º Simpósio Nacional de Fruticultura
Country/TerritoryPortugal
CityVila Real
Period4/12/145/12/14

Keywords

  • Ascophyllum nodosum
  • Cor
  • Extratos de algas
  • Firmeza
  • Fragaria ananassa
  • Grau brix
  • Número de frutos

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