Effect of Tuber Soaking Periods with some Activators on Growth and Productivity of Potato

Abstract

Two field experiments were carried out during 2017 and 2018 summer seasons at private farm in Aga, El-Dakahlia governorate, to investigate the effect of soaking periods of some activators and their interaction on vegetative growth parameters, minerals composition and biochemical parameters in leaves, yield and tuber quality of potato (Solanum tuberosum L., cv. Cara). The experiment was arranged in split plot design in complete blocks randomized. This research included 12 treatments consist of 3 soaking periods of activators (1 hours, 2 hours and 3 hours) and 4 activators i.e., licorice root extract (LRE) at 5 g L-1, zinc (Zn) and boron (B) (100+50) mg L-1, yeast extract at 5 g L-1 in addition control treatment (tap water). Obtained results revealed that soaking tubers pre planting 3 hours gave the highest values of vegetative growth parameters, minerals composition and biochemical parameters in leaves, yield and most tuber quality. All activators significantly enhanced measured parameters compared to the control treatment. LRE at 5 g L-1 gave the maximum values of most vegetative growth parameters, minerals composition and biochemical parameters in leaves, yield and tuber quality. Thus, It can be recommended that soaking tuber pre planting 3 hours with LRE at 5 g L-1 increased potato growth, yield and quality.