Investigating the Correlation between Phosphorus and Zinc Levels with Leaf Chemistry and Pecan Nut Kernel Weight

Abstract

The pecan tree holds significant economic value due to its versatile cultivation and utilization. To expand its reach in global markets, pecan nut breeding aims to enhance both the quantity and quality of the product through meticulous planning. In this context, phosphorus and zinc are crucial nutrients for pecan nuts, playing a notable role in their nutritional profile. An experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different levels of phosphorus and zinc on the nutrient content and yield of pecan trees. The experiment was designed in a factorial form with three levels of phosphorus (0, 250, and 500 kg P2O5 ha-1) and three levels of zinc (0, 25, and 50 kg Zn ha-1) in four replications. The results of the experiment showed that increasing the consumption of phosphorus had a significant effect on the concentration of phosphorus and iron in the leaves. However, a higher level of phosphorus application reduced the concentration of copper in the leaves. Similarly, the application of zinc increased the concentration of zinc (from 138.54 to 166.25 mg kg-1) in the leaves but decreased the concentration of phosphorus (from 0.15% to 0.13%). Interestingly, the application of 250 kg ha-1 of phosphorus led to a significant increase in the dry weight of the kernel, while higher levels of phosphorus had the opposite effect. These findings suggest that careful management of phosphorus and zinc levels in pecan orchards can have a significant impact on both nutrient content and yield. This research provides valuable insights for pecan breeders and growers seeking to optimize their practices and improve the quality of their crops.

Keywords

• orchards
• pecan nut
• phosphorus
• zinc