Adubação foliar na qualidade dos frutos de cultivares de abacaxizeiro

Abstract

At the time of purchase, most pineapple consumers point to the quality of the product as a determining factor in the decision, with the acidity of the fruit as the main cause of discontent. In this sense, many genetic improvement programs have been developing new cultivars, aiming to meet market demands. In addition, it is essential that research on the management of these plants, including the need for fertilization, be developed. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of foliar fertilization on the quality of the fruits of five pineapple cultivars. The experimental design was in randomized blocks, with four replications, in a split plot scheme. In the plots, five pineapple cultivars were randomized and in the subplots, three leaf fertilizer compositions. Fertilizations were carried out fortnightly, in a localized manner. Fruit harvest started 300 days after planting seedlings in the field. The fruits were taken to the laboratory to analyze their physical and chemical attributes. The NK formula is the best option for use as leaf fertilizer in pineapple cultivation for the conditions and cultivars of this study. All cultivars, regardless of the fertilization formula, have juice levels within the standard of export for industrial purposes.