Document Type : Research Article
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Abstract
Abstract
Supplement of optimum concentration nutrients such as K and Ca in soil less culture seems to have a remarkable effect on the yield and quality of fruity crops. An experiment was conducted to find out the effect of different K:Ca ratios on the growth, yield and quality in Galia (Cucumis melo var. reticulatus L. Naud. cv. Galia) grown in hydroponics. The experiment was arranged in the completely randomized design with three replicates. The seeds of melon were sown in the media containing perlite and vermiculate (3:1 V:V)with different K:Ca ratios (1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4). The fruits were harvested in the physiological ripened stage and their quality and quantity attributes were measured. The fresh weight of fruits were determined and brushed in a hot water rinse at 59 oC for 15 s and then they were stored at 5-6 oC for 14 days and an additional 5 days at 20 oC then quality characteristic were measured. The results showed that the yield of melon was significantly affected by various K:Ca ratios, so that the highest and lowest yield was observed in K:Ca ratio 3 and 4, respectively. The firmness was significantly affected by various K:Ca ratios, so that with increasing K:Ca ratios the firmness of fruit was decreased. Calcium concentration in fruits and leaves were significantly reduced with increasing K:Ca ratios. It can be concluded that K:Ca 3 improved the yield and quality of galia, therefore adjustment of K:Ca=3 in the nutrient solution seems to be crucial to obtain the highest yield and quality
Keywords: Potassium, Galia melon, Yield, Calcium, Quality
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