Influence of Planting Dates and Some Nk-Rates on Productivity and Storability of Garlic

Abstract

Two field experiments were carried out of the vegetable private farm at Kafr Meet Faris, Dakahlia Governorate, during 2017/2018 and 2018/2019 seasons to study the influence of planting dates (20 September, 5 October, 20 October and 5 November) either single and/or in combination with some NK-rates (100%, 110% and 120% from recommended rate) on plant growth, yield and its components, as well as chemical constituents and storability of bulbs on garlic Sids-40 cultivar. Results showed that, the Germination percentage and vegetative growth characteristics (plant height, number of leaves, plant dry weight and bulbing ratio) were better with the second planting date (5 October) followed by the third planting date (20 October) in both seasons. Moreover, total yield, bulb weight and diameter and average clove weight were increased with these planting dates. Whereas, the late planting date (5 November) gave the lowest values in both seasons. On the other hand, application of 120% NK-rate resulted in significant increases in most parameters compared with other treatments. Moreover, concentration N, P, K, TSS and volatile oils in cloves were significantly increased with this treatment. Also, this treatment was significantly reduced the weight loss percentages. The positive interactions between planting dates and NK-rates were often observed. The best results were obtained by the second planting date followed by the third planting date without significant differences between them in most cases combined with 120% NK-rate. Therefore, this treatment could be recommended for improving productivity, quality and storability of garlic under similar conditions to this work.