Effect of preharvest foliar spray of nutrients on the quality improvement of apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) in Uttarakhand

Abstract

The present investigation was carried out at the Horticulture Research Block, Ranichauri of Uttarakhand University of Horticulture and Forestry during the year 2013. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications and 11 treatment. Preharvest foliar nutrients sprays was done individually and in combination after fruit set. After harvesting fruits were stored upto 90 days. Maximum total sugars (12.09%) was observed in the fruits treated with foliar application of macronutrient @ 1.5% and maximum TSS and ascorbic acid content found maximum in fruits which were treated with potassium (foliar application of K2SO4 @ 1.5%) followed by macronutrients and minimum in control after 90 days of storage. Thus, three foliar spray of NPK mixture @ 1.5% on during first week of May, June and July was found to be most effective in increasing the fruit quality of apple in the mid hill condition of Uttarakhand.