Yield and quality improvement in Kinnow mandarin using nano formulations

Abstract

The present study aimed at evaluating the effects of nano-chitosan, nano-micronutrients, and bio-capsules on the yield and quality attributes of Kinnow mandarin (Citrus nobilis × C. deliciosa) over two consecutive years: 2021-22 and 2022-23. Based on pooled data, treatment T14–consisting of NPK soil drenching with nanochitosan at a concentration of 100 ppm, bio-capsules at 500 ppm, and foliar application of nano-micronutrients (Zinc oxide and Iron oxide)–demonstrated superior performance in both yield and qualitative parameters. This treatment resulted in a low fruit drop of 35.76%, a high fruit set of 79.60%, a maximum number of fruits per plant at 893.83, a fruit diameter of 7.33 cm, a fruit weight of 153.97 g, a yield per plant of 88.43 kg/tree, and high qualitative measures such as Total Soluble Solids (TSS) at 11.62%, acidity at 1.09%, ascorbic acid content at 26.69 mg/100 g, juice content at 50.06%, and fruit pulp weight of 50.0 g. By combining bio-capsules, nanoparticles, and nano-chitosan with the recommended dose of fertilizer (NPK), the yield parameters were enhanced; thereby, preserving the qualitative aspects through anti-pathogen effects and nutrient fixation in Kinnow plants.