Determination of leaf sampling techniques to assess the nutritional status of Barbados cherry ( Malpighia emarginata D.C.)
2002; EDP Sciences; Volume: 57; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês
10.1051/fruits
ISSN1625-967X
AutoresJosé Francisco Teixeira do Amaral, Cláudio Horst Bruckner, Herminia Martínez, Cosme Damião Cruz, C. Godoy, Sérgio Luiz Caixeta,
Tópico(s)Plant Physiology and Cultivation Studies
ResumoIntroduction. Research on the mineral nutrition of Barbados cherry is scarce. Leaf sampling techniques for this crop are unknown. Leaf analysis, associated with the deter- mination of the nutrient availability in the soil, can provide reliable orientation for the estab- lishment of fertilizer programs. For a correct interpretation of the nutritional status, it is impor- tant (1) to evaluate the seasonal variation of nutrient contents in the leaves, (2) to determine the appropriate time for leaf sampling and analysis, and (3) to indicate the best part of the plant for determination of the nutritional status. These subjects were the three objectives of this study. Materials and methods. The experiment was conducted from March 1997 to Feb- ruary 1998 in Visconde do Rio Branco, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The dynamics of the elements N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn were studied in leaves at the apical, median and basal posi- tions of branches located in the upper, median and lower portions of the plant canopy. Results. The minimum variation in the foliar contents occurred at the medium third of the branches located in the upper portion of the canopy. So, these parts are the most appropriate for leaf sampling. Moreover, December was characterized as the appropriate time for leaf sampling. Conclusion. The leaf sampling techniques developed will allow better study of the mineral nutrition of M. emarginata in order to establish reliable fertilizer programs and to improve the yields of this fruit tree. Brazil / Malpighia emarginata / plant nutrition / fertilizer application / leaves / tissue analysis / seasonal variation / nutritional status
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