The growth promotion effect of microelement fertilizers containing low molecular weight chitosan and xanthan on radish (Raphanus sativus L.)

Abstract

The effects of gamma radiation on viscosity and molecular weight (Mw) of chitosan and xanthan were studied to utilize them as components that can induce plant growth promotor (PGP) effect and prolong the contact of agrochemicals with crop in the foliar microelement fertilizers. Various fertilizers were prepared from two formulations of microelements, radiation degraded low molecular weight (Mw) chitosan (LCST) and xanthan (LXT) and their effects on the growth, yield and quality of radish grown on alluvial soil were measured. The experiment was arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications in experiment station. The results revealed that all development parameters of radish were much improved by foliar application of microelements and low Mw polysaccharides. The highest yield of radish root obtained with the plants treated with lower microelements and higher chitosan content (MF2). There are insignificant differences in total soluble solids, sugar and vitamin C content in the root harvested from the plants treated with the formulations supplementing the same amount of LCST, but the fertilizer composed of higher amount of microelements and chitosan (MF4) reduced nitrate residue in the root. It can be concluded that foliar microelement fertilizer containing low Mw polysaccharide can be applied to improve the growth, yield and quality of radish.