Variation of Tuber Yields and Quality at Some Jerusalem Artichoke Genotypes in Pedoclimatic Conditions from Center of Moldova and the Plain of Oltenia, Romania

Abstract

Existing information in the literature on the variation in tuber yield and their inulin content, depending on the variety and soil and climatic conditions of Helianthus tuberosus L., is limited. For this reason, in the pedoclimatic conditions from ARDS Secuieni (Center of Moldova) and from ARDS Caracal (Oltenia Plain) was conducted a study regarding this aspects. This study was conducted between 2018-2020, within an experiance with four genotype of Jerusalem artichoke and specifically: Dacic dwarf, Rareș, Olimpic and Dăbuleni population. The results obtained showed major differences between the cultivated genotypes and between the two agricultural areas, both in terms of tuber yield and tuber quality. Jerusalem artichoke is a species that has resistance to drought and high temperatures, achieving average yields of 21.3 to ha-1 in Secuieni and 24.0 to ha-1 in Caracal. The Oltenia Plain offered more favorable conditions for the growth and development of Jerusalem artichoke, but the species also successfully succeeded in Central of Moldova. Inulin was present in the tubers in a percentage between 48.35% and 58.38%, which confirms the high functional potential of the species and recommends the species as a “source of fiber”. Also, due to the high mineral content identified in the tubers, the mention of “iron source” and “magnesium source” may be issued.