Zinc oxide nanoparticles vs Zn- EDTA in the growth and production of strawberry crops (Fragaria x ananassa Duch)

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate and to compare the effects on growth between zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and Zn-EDTA, nutrient concentration of zinc in leaf and fruit, and strawberry production. Design/methodology/approach: Strawberry plants were used, established in plastic bags with a mixture of substrate, peat and agrolite. Two factors were evaluated: first, the concentration of ZnO NPs (100, 200, 500, 1000 mg L-1), plus treatment with Zn-EDTA and a control; and the second, manner of application (foliar and to the substrate). A completely randomized increased factorial design was used. Growth was measured, leaf and fruit zinc concentration was determined, the number of flowers and weight of fruits per plant, and the variables of firmness and total soluble solids of fruits were quantified. Results: The results obtained indicate that the foliar application of the 200 mg L-1 dosage of ZnO NPs caused the greatest plant height, as well as the highest number of flowers, crowns and fruits per plant, and the greatest production. The highest leaf zinc concentrations within the sufficiency interval were observed with the leaf application of 100 and 200 mg L-1 of ZnO NPs. Findings/conclusions: The study allows inferring that the use of zinc oxide nanoparticles is an alternative source of fertilizer with respect to conventional Zn sources to improve growth, zinc concentration and fruit production in strawberry .