The Effects of Foliar Zinc Application on Yield and Quality Components of Pea (Pisum sativum L.) in Mediterranean Climate Conditions

Abstract

Peas are widely grown, especially in the western region of Turkey with a temperate climate. Pea cultivation areas are decreasing in this region, where the Mediterranean climate is dominant. Zinc deficiency causes seed yield losses in pea cultivation. This study aimed to determine the optimum foliar zinc application to improve the seed yield of the widely planted pea varieties (Karina and Utrillo). For this reason, foliar application of zinc (0-30-60 kg ha-1) was carried out at the beginning of the flowering period. The study was conducted in two growing seasons (2019 and 2020) at Aydin Adnan Menderes University. In this study, plant height, plant stem diameter, the number of seeds per pod, pod length, 100-seed weight, seed yield, seed protein content, protein yield, seed ash content, seed fibre content, seed oil content, and seed zinc content were determined. According to the results obtained, the highest values for pods per plant, 100-grain weight, seed yield, protein ratio, protein yield, and seed zinc content were obtained from 60 kg of zinc ha-1 in both years. However, zinc foliar application did not affect the plant height or plant stem diameter in either year. Although similar values were obtained regarding the characters examined among the cultivars, Karina stood out in seed yield and protein ratio, and Utrillo performed better in seed zinc content. Based on the values we got, we can recommend applying a dose of 60 kg of zinc per hectare per year from the leaf.