Effects of Foliar Applications of Zinc and Boron Nano-Fertilizers on Pomegranate Fruit Yield and Quality

This study investigates the impact of foliar applications of zinc (Zn) nano-fertilizer and boron (B) nano-fertilizer on the yield and quality of pomegranate fruits (Punica granatum cv. Ardestani). Conducted over two growing seasons (2014 and 2015), the research utilized a completely randomized block design with nine different treatments and four replications.

Key Findings:
Nutrient Status Improvement: The application of Zn and B significantly increased the leaf concentrations of these micronutrients, indicating improved nutrient status of the trees.
Fruit Yield: A single foliar spray of nano-fertilizers resulted in increased fruit yield, primarily due to a higher number of fruits per tree. The effect was more pronounced with boron than with zinc.
Fruit Quality: The highest doses of both nutrients led to significant improvements in fruit quality, including increases in total soluble solids (TSS) and maturity index, along with decreases in titratable acidity (TA).
Physical Properties: Most physical characteristics of the fruit, such as size and weight, were largely unaffected by the treatments.

Conclusion:
The study concludes that foliar applications of relatively low amounts of Zn and B nano-fertilizers can enhance pomegranate fruit yield and quality, making them a viable option for improving agricultural practices.