Response of Gemlik olive trees to soil and foliar treatments of iron in combination with zinc and boron

Abstract

This research was conducted to determine the effectiveness of various treatments in correction of single deficiency of iron (Fe) and multiple deficiencies of Fe, zinc (Zn), and boron (B) in an olive cultivar (Gemlik) in the southeastern Marmara region of Turkey. This study was consisted of four field experiments, which included control, soil and foliar applications of Fe alone, and combinations with Zn and B. Soil applications of the compounds were only performed in the first year of the experiments to estimate residual effect of soil applications in the following year. Foliar applications were sprayed onto leaves two and four times at two doses in consecutive years. Soil application of iron sulfate did not increase Fe concentrations in the both leaves and fruits. Foliar applications of iron sulfate considerably elevated leaf total and active Fe concentrations, but the effect of the foliar applications on fruit Fe concentrations was small. Two foliar applications of iron in each season seemed to be appropriate treatment in the all experiments, as well. To maintain sufficient Fe concentrations, especially in the newly developing tissues of olive trees, foliar application of Fe should be conducted at least four times at the lowest dose as performed in the experiments. Foliar applications of double and triple combinations of iron sulfate with zinc sulfate and borax increased significantly B and Zn concentrations in the trees, as well.