SYNERGISTIC EFFECTS OF BORON AND ZINC ON THE MORPHO-PHYSIOLOGICAL AND NUTRITIONAL TRAITS OF CUCUMBER (CUCUMIS SATIVUS L.) AS INFLUENCED BY DIFFERENT APPLICATION METHODS

A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of various concentrations of boron (B) and zinc (Zn) applied through different methods on cucumber. The results showed significant increases in morphological attributes, biochemical parameters (chlorophyll, carotenoids, sugar, protein, proline, phenols, and flavonoids), and nutrient contents (iron, Zn, manganese, B, magnesium, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium) with the application of B and Zn. The combined root and leaf application method (R+L) was more effective than separate applications. Optimal levels of B (3.8 mg/L) and Zn (3.8 mg/L) with R+L application method produced the best results. This study concludes that B and Zn application at optimal levels with R+L method can improve cucumber growth, biochemical properties, and nutrient uptake.