Calcium and potassium fertilization on antioxidant capacity and the fruit quality of ‘hicaz’ pomegranates (Punica granatum L.)

Abstract

This study was carried out in two different pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) orchards in the Mugla City of Turkey.The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of calcium and potassium fertilizers on the fruit properties and total antioxidant capacity of pomegranate plants.1.5% and 3% KNO3, 1.5% and 3% Ca(NO3)2, 0.75% KNO3 + 0.75% Ca(NO3)2 and 1.5%KNO3 + 1.5% Ca(NO3)2 were sprayed on the leaves.The Ferric Ion Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), lipid peroxidation (Malondialdehyde – MDA) and Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD) parameters and fruit pomological properties evaluated after the treatments.Ca fertilization significantly affected to the FRAP.Potassium treatments generally reduced the sugar content of the plants leaves.Considering fruit quality and pomological properties, the Ca treatments significantly increased fruit weight, peel percent, juice yield and acidity.The K treatments higher affected fruit width and length, as well as the fruit peel percent; and Ca + K treatments increased acidity. © 2016, National Centre for Agrarian Sciences.All rights reserved.