Effect of various commercial biostimulants on citrus species (oranges and tangerines)

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of biostimulants (BS) on three different citrus tree species—two orange kinds and one tangerine—at different phases of growth. Finding the optimal results in terms of weight, diameter, and sugar content is the goal. Additionally, by evaluating the BS Return on Investment (ROI), it is possible to ascertain which one provides the most value. There were seven treatments in the trial in addition to a control group. Using a 1500L turbine, BS like as humic chemicals, beneficial bacteria, and seaweed extracts were delivered as foliar water solutions. The dose for each treatment was customized for a particular strain of oranges or mandarins. Two fields with distinct layouts and citrus kinds were used in the experiment, which was carried out in Evinoxori, Western Greece: "Lane Late" oranges in the Nisi field and "Valencia" oranges and "Nova" mandarins in the Livadakia field. Three application windows lined up with significant stages of advancement. Nisi had a single variety “Lanelate” and had a total of 35 treated trees with 5 trees per row, whereas Livadakia had a high-density arrangement with rows of oranges and mandarins alternately, Ten trees were targeted by each row of treatment, for a total of 70 trees for all treatments. Every tree was given the same attention in terms of fertilization, trimming, and plant protection to ensure uniformity. Untreated control trees provided a benchmark for comparison. To guarantee reliable data analysis, measurements were obtained from a random selection of fruits on every tree. This study seeks to give significant insights into the effectiveness of BS in citrus agriculture by carefully controlling factors and utilizing rigorous methodology. This will help producers optimize their operations for increased yields and profitability.