Synchronization of zinc and boron application methods and rates for improving the quality and yield attributes of Mangifera indica L. on sustainable basis

Deficiency of micronutrients is a major hurdle for achieving good quality mango fruit and sustainable optimum yield. High soil pH and phosphorus fertilizers are major causes that restrict the bioavailability of micronutrients, such as zinc (Zn) and boron (B). In addition, low or no micronutrient application may create severe Zn and B deficiency in fruits, especially mango. The judicious use of Zn and B is critical to overcoming this problem. Application of both nutrients in the form of soil and foliar application can increase the uptake of Zn and B and the yield of mango fruit on a sustainable basis. However, time is needed to synchronize micronutrients to application methods. Therefore, the current experiment was conducted to explore the best application rate of both micronutrients to the application method in mango orchards. There were 14 treatments applied with three replications. For micronutrient application, soil and foliar methods were chosen. Results showed that 75SB + 0.8FB + 150SZn + 1.0FZn perform signifi-cantly best for the improvement in the fruit length (62 %), fruit width (57 %), pulp fresh weight (92 %), stone weight (72 %). Furthermore, a significant increase in total soluble solids (45 %) and a decrease in acidity (50 %) confirmed the imperative functioning of 75SB + 0.8FB + 150SZn + 1.0FZn over control. Furthermore, a significant reduction in total phenolic contents and juice pH validated the effectiveness of 75SB + 0.8FB + 150SZn + 1.0FZn over control in mango. In conclusion, Zn and B soil and foliar application is a better approach for achieving good quality mango fruit. Treatment 75SB + 0.8FB + 150 SZn + 1.0FZn is best for mango growers to achieve maximum fruit yield. However, more investigation is suggested in different climatic zones to declare 75SB + 0.8FB + 150SZn + 1.0FZn as the best application amendment to maximize the yield and quality of mango.(c) 2022 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of King Saud University. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Automated summary

Deficiency of micronutrients is a major obstacle to achieving good quality and sustainable yield of mango fruit. Zinc and boron applied through soil and foliar methods can increase the yield and quality of mango fruit. Treatment 75SB + 0.8FB + 150SZn + 1.0FZn is the best choice for mango growers to achieve maximum fruit yield.