Response of Solanum tuberosum L. to drip irrigation and nitrogen application: productivity, nutrition composition, bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity

Sustainable crop cultivation is a crucial goal in modern agriculture, aiming to attain high productivity while conserving natural resources. This requires the implementation of rational cultivation techniques, with proper irrigation and fertilization practices playing a crucial role in ensuring plant well-being and providing natural protection against biotic and abiotic stresses. The health-promoting properties of crops are also significantly influenced by irrigation and fertilization. This study investigated the productivity, nutritional composition, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant capacity of Vineta early potato cultivar tubers under drip irrigation conditions, combined with nitrogen fertilization through fertigation or broadcasting. Two-factor trials included drip irrigation (control or drip) and nitrogen application (broadcast or fertigation). Precise treatments, such as drip irrigation and N-fertigation were found to enhance all productivity traits. Both practices positively impacted tuber nutrient content. The highest levels of total polyphenols and chlorogenic acid were observed in non-irrigated and broadcasted tubers. Drip-irrigated and N-fertigated tubers exhibited high levels of vitamin C and antioxidant activity. In summary, the combination of drip irrigation with appropriate fertilization methods positively influenced potato crops, as evidenced by an increase in productivity and the quality of tubers.