Effect of chemical treatments on macronutrient and micronutrient content in mango (Mangifera indica L.) leaves across different varieties

Abstract

The present study was conducted at the Regional Horticultural Research Station of ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, during 2020-21 and 2022-23 with the objective of assessing the effect of different chemical treatments on the macronutrients (N, P, K) and micronutrients (Fe, Zn) content of mango (Mangifera indica) leaves. The study was conducted on three different mango varieties—Kesar (V1), Dashehari (V2), and Amrapali (V3)—and four specific chemical treatments: C1 (NAA 20 mg/L + ZnSO₄ 0.3% + Boron 0.1%), C2 (GA₃ 30 mg/L + ZnSO₄ 0.3% + Boron 0.1%), C3 (Novel 1% + ZnSO₄ 0.3% + Boron 0.1%), and C4 (control). Data analysis of observations recorded over a span of two years indicated that there were no statistically significant differences in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content among the different varieties or chemical treatments, both before and after the spray treatments. However, among the different varieties, Amrapali (V3) recorded the highest nitrogen (1.590%) and phosphorus (0.275%) content, while Kesar (V1) recorded the highest potassium content (0.523%). As regards the treatments, C3 recorded the highest nitrogen (1.596%) and iron (197.58 ppm) content, while C1 recorded the highest zinc content (146.16 ppm). The interaction effects between the varieties and treatments were not statistically significant, but the V3C3 combination recorded the highest nitrogen (1.611%) and iron (200.19 ppm) content, while V2C1 recorded the highest zinc content (147.57 ppm). The marginal increments observed in the micronutrient content after application reflect increased nutrient absorption and translocation, which may be brought about by the application of the novel organic liquid fertilizer. These findings add value to the knowledge of nutritional management practices for mango cultivation for the maximum nutrient status of leaves.