The effect of foliar applications of biostimulants on leaf chlorophyll and fruit quality in organically grown black currant (Ribes nigrum L.)

The main aim of the present study was to test the effects of liquid biostimulants applied to the leaves of black currant (Ribes nigrum L.) and to find out their effect on the chlorophyll content in leaves, incidence of premature fruit drop, and fruit quality parameters (fruit weight, soluble solids, organic acids, pH, ascorbic acid, and total polyphenols). The trial was conducted in the organic black currant plantation (‘Pamyati Vavilova’) at Polli Horticultural Research Centre of Estonian University of Life Sciences (58°07’44,5”N 25°32’16,8”E), Estonia.
The products used were Raskila, GreenTop, Folicist, Fylloton and Vinasse in comparison with water as control, each biostimulant was applied three times before fruit ripening in 2017 and 2018. The results revealed little effect on leaf chlorophyll content and premature fruit drop.
GreenTop, Folicist and Vinasse increased fruit weight up to 40% compared to control in 2018. Significant effects on fruit biochemical composition appeared in both experimental years.
Preparations applied via foliage can be complementary to soil fertilization and serve the goal of enhancing plant growth and resistance to environmental stress in organic blackcurrant plantation.

IV International Symposium on Horticulture in Europe – SHE2021

R. Rätsep, L. Arus, H. Kaldmäe, K. Kahu

black currant, leaf SPAD, fruit drop, fruit quality, biochemical composition

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2021.1327.96