Foliar application of kaolin can improve quality attributes of deficit irrigated green bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) during cold storage

Abstract

Two similar cold storage experiments were conducted to investigate the main and interaction effects of kaolin foliar application (Kao) and deficit irrigation (DI) at different physiological stages on quality attributes of green beans pods (Phaseolus vulgaris L) Paulista cv., during cold storage (7 ±1 °C). DI has been applied by skipping one irrigation at different physiological stages (DI-Vegetative growth, DI-Flowering and DI-Ripen) plus normal watering, as a comparison treatment. Kaolin clay (Kao-C) foliar spray has been applied with different concentrations (without kaolin, Kao-1= 12.5 g / L and Kao-2 = 25 g / L) weekly after the first irrigation till the ripening time (a total of five times). Skipping one irrigation either DI-Vegetative or DI-Vegetative combined with Kao-1 or Kao-2 had a noticeable positive effect on N, total soluble solids (TSS), and dry matter, in addition to reducing the percentage of weight loss after 14 days of cold storage. Based on the obtained results, Implementing one irrigation skip either during the vegetative growth stage or during the maturity and harvesting stage, in conjunction with kaolin treatment, to conserve about 25% of irrigation water, while preserving the quality characteristics of green bean pods. Deficit irrigation Kaolin foliar application Green beans Cold storage Water stress