Effect of nano chitosan, nano micronutrients and bio capsules on growth and flowering attributes of Kinnow Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)

Abstract

An experiment was conducted at the Department of Horticulture, Central Research Field at the Naini Agricultural Institute, SHUATS, Prayagraj ,Uttar Pradesh. During the year 2021-22 and 2022-23 to study the effect of Nano chitosan, Nano micronutrients and Bio capsules on Growth and flowering attributes of Kinnow mandarin and Soil physic-chemical characteristics of the soil. In the experiment, 14 treatment combination were taken along with control. And it was set up according to Randomized block design (RBD) with three replications of each treatment. Among different treatment combinations, it was recorded that T14 with the combination of [N P K (as recommended dose of fertilizer) + Soil drenching of Nano chitosan 100 ppm + Bio capsule 500 ppm + foliar application of nano particles (ZnO+FeO)] emerged as most effective in promoting highest plant height, plant spread and stem girth of the plant. Days required for flowering was shortest while Number of flowers per tree-was highest for T14. The soil NPK content increased drastically for T14 applied plots while no significant effect were observed in soil pH, organic Carbon % and Electrical conductivity by the application of Nano chitosan, Nano particles (ZnO+FeO) and Bio capsules. So, Nano-Chitosan, nano fertilizers along with biofertilizers application can enhance plant growth and flowering attributes of kinnow mandarin along with sustaining nutrient levels in the soil.