Comparison of growth characteristics, yield and quality traits in some radish cultivars cultivated in a saline soil at Isfahan region

Document Type : Research

Authors

1 M.Sc. Student، Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University

2 Associate Professor، Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

Identifying and evaluating the variations in growth, performance and composition of crops is important for breeding and improving the quality of products. In this study, in addition to evaluating the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of five radishes (Raphanus sativus) cultivars, their compatibility with saline soil under the arid climate of Isfahan was investigated. The seeds of Isfahan local, Cherry Bell, Champion, Breakfast and Sparkler cultivars were planted in the fall based on a randomized complete block design and their characteristics were measured at the commercial maturity stage. Sparkler, Breakfast and Isfahan local cultivars had the highest growth and yield. The tubers of the cultivars were almost spherical in shape, and elongated tubers were observed only in Breakfast. Radish tubers showed considerable differences in terms of dry matter percentage (5.9-9.2%). The acidity of the tuber extract was not significantly different among the cultivars (pH 6.5±0.1), but the electrical conductivity of the tuber extract was significantly different (1.2-2.2 dS/m) and had a direct relationship with potassium content. The cultivars were significantly different in terms of the content of soluble solids (1.7-6.3 ˚Brix), titratable acid (6.2-9.1 g/100g) and their ratio (1.4-2-7). The content of vitamin C was 9.3-1.16 mg/100g; therefore, radish cannot be considered as a rich source of vitamin C in the diet. Radish had a significant amount of potassium (130-220 mg/100g) which is equivalent to about 10% of the consumer's daily requirement. Phosphorus concentration in tubers of radish cultivars (200-398 mg/kg) was lower than potassium. The differences in radish cultivars were related to genetic differences in vigor and differences in high soil electrical conductivity tolerance. For saline soils and arid climates, Sparkler, Breakfast and Isfahan local cultivars were suggested for autumn radish cultivation.

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