The Use of Chlorophyll Fluorescence as an Indicator of Predicting Potato Yield, Its Dry Matter and Starch in the Conditions of Using Microbiological Preparations

Abstract

The paradigm shift toward ecological agriculture has spurred efforts to phase out the use of conventional pesticides, and researchers are actively seeking natural alternatives to replace these chemicals. Aim: This study aimed to introduce an innovative intervention to enhance potato yields in a non-invasive manner, thereby elevating the content of both dry matter and starch. Ultimately, this approach seeks to enhance the quality of raw materials destined for the production of potato-enriched products. A field experiment was conducted in central-eastern Poland that employed a randomized sub-block method within a dependent split-split-plot design replicated three times. The main factor was pre-planting treatments, which included the application of a microbiological preparation to seed potatoes for: (a) 10 min, (b) 15 min, and (c) no treatment (control). Another factor was the fourteen potato cultivars of different earliness groups. Qualitative analyses were carried out in laboratory conditions. The application of the microbiological preparation yielded positive outcomes on the physiological indicators of potato yield, while augmenting the production of dry matter and starch when compared to the control object. The analyzed cultivars had the most pronounced impact on both the content and yield of dry matter and starch, demonstrating a wide array of responses to pre-planting treatments that incorporated microbiological preparations. For the first time in studies concerning effective microorganisms, chlorophyll fluorescence analysis was employed. Alternative solutions in the form of employing microbiological preparations offer the potential to effectively substitute pesticides and synthetic fertilizers in potato production, consequently enhancing the quality of raw materials for food.