Cytokinins in yield and macronutrient content in gherkin cultivation

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of cytokinin on the content of macronutrients in the leaves of the gherkin crop. Methodology: The research was carried out in the province of Huaral, Lima region during the months of May to August 2019. The completely randomized block design was implemented, with four treatments and three repetitions. The treatments were: 0; 2.50; 5.00 and 7.50 mL L of the commercial product Stimplex-G (0.01% cytokinin). The area of the experimental unit was 6 m2. The variables evaluated were foliar contents of N (%), P (%) and K (%), number of fruits per plant and yield. Analysis of variance was performed using the R statistical software and Duncan's comparison test at a significance level of 0.05. Results: The results show that the applications of increasing doses of cytokinin, by foliar route, promoted an increase in the foliar contents of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium; as well as the number of fruits per plant and yield, and were significantly higher than the control treatment, which did not receive the application. Regarding the applied doses, there were no significant differences between 7.50 and 5.00 mL L -1 . Conclusion: It is concluded that the foliar application of cytokinin promotes greater absorption of nutrients, resulting in an increase in the production of fruits per plant and, consequently, an increase in the final yield. -1