Seasonal changes of K, Ca, Mg and P in fig (Ficus carica L. cv. Bursa Siyahı)

Abstract

“Bursa Siyahı” fig is a kind of table fig in Marmara Region. As an export product, it is a crucial source of income for locals due to its economic value. The aim of this research is to determine the stable period for collecting leaf sample thorough examining seasonal change of macro nutrients (K, Ca, Mg and P) and make a nutrition evaluation. For this purpose, in Bursa Mudanya town Akköy village five different fig plantations were chosen and throughout one vegetation period leaf samples that were taken in the last weeks of each month between May and September and soil sample taken in July were analyzed. According to the results of this research, analyzed macro elements, except P, has generally increased in all plantations from the beginning of vegetation period to July, nevertheless, following months they remain stable until harvest time. However, P decreased after May and remained almost in fixed value in vegetation period. As a result of periodic analyses of leaf samples, August and September were determined as stable periods in which changes of nutrient elements were the least. Additionally, general nutrition assessment supported by soil analyses were also done and was not faced with any nutrition problem.