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Made available in DSpace on 2020-12-12T01:23:55Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2020-05-01 The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the spatial variability of plant production components and the use of an irrigation and fertirrigation management system with controlled deficit affect the yield and incidence of garlic lateral shoot growing (LSG). An analysis of these data through statistical and geostatistical techniques made it possible to verify that the increase in yield is directly related to the height and diameter of the bulb and that the lateral shoot growing is directly related to the increase in yield. Lower water depths and lower nitrogen doses applied during clove differentiation imply a lower incidence ofLSG, whereas increased irrigation and fertigation with nitrogen results in lower bulb volumes. Universidade Federal de Vicxosa Campus Universitario, Avenida Peter Henry Rolfs, s/n Universidade Federal Do Mato Grosso Do sul Campus Chapadão Do sul, Rodovia MS 306, KM 403 Agronomy Department State University of São Paulo (UNESP) Agronomy Department State University of São Paulo (UNESP)

Gilo fruits are appreciated for their bitter taste and bright green color. However, they become yellowish a few days after harvest, losing commercial value. It is known that the ethylene is responsible for the degradation of chlorophyll and induction of other responses in fruits sensitive to the hormone. The aim of this study was to determine the degree of sensitivity and responses of gilo fruits treated with ethylene. Fruits were treated with 0.1, 1.0, 10, 100 and 1000 ?L L-1 ethephon plus a control treatment with water. The fruits were evaluated for the fresh weight loss, color component a*, and chlorophyll, total soluble sugars, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars, and starch contents. The fruits treated with ethephon at concentrations greater than 0.1 ?L L-1 had a shelf life of two days, because they showed alterations in their color resulting from an increase in component a* (red color) values. The application of ethephon reduces the chlorophyll content but does not influence the loss of mass and the carbohydrate content in the fruits.

Onion is considered the third most important vegetable in terms of economic value in Brazilian horticulture. The factors of production which most limit the productivity of the species are water and nutrients; so, irrigation and soil fertility control are determinant criteria for crop success. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different water depths and nitrogen doses on the productivity of onion, Aquarius hybrid. Five water depths [(0, 75, 100, 125 and 150% of crop evapotranspiration (ETc)] and five nitrogen doses (0, 120, 180, 240 and 300 kg ha-1, urea form), arranged in a scheme of subdivided plots, in a completely randomized design with four replicates. We used sprinkler irrigation system. Irrigation management and water depths were estimated using Irrigameter. Plants were harvested when more than 60% of them completed the vegetative period. The water depth corresponding to 150% of the crop evapotranspiration provided higher total and commercial onion productivities, applying doses of 226.8 and 229.8 kg ha-1 of nitrogen, respectively.

There is a lack of information about sources of nitrogen fertilizers in cucumber crop. Although essential to obtain high productivity N source, in certain species, can promote accumulation of nitrate in the edible portions, which, reduced to nitrite, is a risk factor for health. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of four sources of N on plant growth, concentration and fluorescence of chlorophyll and the production and accumulation of nitrate in cucumber fruits. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, in pots 10 L filled with soil. The N sources were: 1 - ammonium sulfate (100% ammonia); 2 - ammonium nitrate (50% and 50% ammonium : nitrate); 3 - sodium nitrate (100% nitric) and 4 - urea (100% amide). For all N sources, we used the dose of 160 mg N kg-1 soil. This dose of N was applied installments weekly for eight weeks, beginning one week after transplanting. There was no significant difference between N sources to all traits. All sources had the same efficiency in the production of fruit and low nitrate accumulation in fruits (0.193 mg kg-1 fresh weight). We conclude that, for cucumber culture, the producer must use the power of nitrogen fertilizer due to a lower cost per kg of N, in this case, urea.

A araruta, por ser uma hortaliça não convencional é apropriada a exploração familiar, havendo necessidade de se encontrar formas alternativas para tornar seu o cultivo mais sustentável. Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho produtivo de rizomas e de amido da araruta ‘Seta’ cultivada em consórcio com a crotalária. O experimento constou de quatro tratamentos, correspondentes a três épocas de corte da crotalária associada com a araruta (90, 120 e 150 dias após a semeadura) mais o monocultivo da araruta. Utilizou-se o delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. Nos cortes, avaliaram-se produção de massa de crotalária, conteúdo de macro e de micronutrientes no material cortado e a infestação por plantas invasoras. Na colheita da araruta, avaliaram-se produtividade e formato das classes de rizomas, teor de macro e micronutrientes, estimadas a exportação de nutrientes e a produção de amido pelos rizomas. Os cortes realizados aos 120 e 150 DAS, embora tenham veiculado maiores valores de massa e de nutrientes, proporcionou menores produtividades de rizomas grandes, total e de amido. O corte da crotalária aos 90 DAS proporcionou valores superiores aos cortes realizados aos 120 e 150 DAS para maioria das variáveis avaliadas, não diferindo do controle, inclusive para o amido. O consórcio proporcionou menor infestação por plantas invasoras. É agronomicamente viável a associação da crotalária com a cultura da araruta desde que o corte da leguminosa ocorra até 90 DAS.

Response of taro to amount of nitrogen applied and time of application has been the subject of discussion. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of nitrogen topdressing on taro yield. Two experiments were conducted in Oratórios - MG from September 2010 to July 2011 (Year 1) and from September 2011 to July 2012 (Year 2). Both experiments were arranged in a randomized block design, with four replications. The treatments consisted of five N rates (0; 40; 60; 80 and 160 kg ha-1) applied as topdressing at urea form. The corms of Japanese clone (BGH 5925) were planted in the 0.90 x 0.30 m spacing. In the two experimental years, yield increased in almost all corm classes with the increase in N rates. The estimated maximum yields of marketable corms were 22.23 Mg ha-1 in Year 1 and 9.81 Mg ha-1 in Year 2, with 109 and 118 kg ha-1 of N, respectively. The total number of corms per plant was similar in both years (16.45 corms/plant in Year 1 and 17.76 corms/plant in Year 2). Unmarketable corms represented 35.32 and 46.51% of the total per plant, in Year 1 and Year 2, respectively, indicating less corm growth in Year 2. The curve of taro response to topdressing N rates was similar in the two years and, the estimates were influenced by the difference in rainfall between the years. With the management of nitrogen fertilization, the maximum yield of marketable taro corms was achieved with N rates varying from 109 to 118 kg ha-1. RESUMO A resposta do taro ao nitrogênio tem sido objeto de discussão em relação a quanto de N a ser aplicado e quando aplicar. Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de nitrogênio aplicado em cobertura sobre a produtividade de taro. Foram conduzidos dois experimentos em Oratórios - MG, nos períodos de setembro de 2010 a julho de 2011 (Ano 1) e de setembro de 2011 a julho de 2012 (Ano 2). Nos dois experimentos, utilizou-se o delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos consistiram de cinco doses de N (0; 40; 60; 80 e 160 kg de N ha-1), aplicado em cobertura, na forma de ureia, parceladas em três aplicações. As mudas do clone Japonês (BGH 5925), foram distribuídas no espaçamento de 0,90 x 0,30 m. Nos dois anos, aumento nas doses de N promoveu incrementos na produtividade de praticamente todas as classes de rizomas. A produtividade máxima estimada de rizomas comercializáveis foi de 22,23 t ha-1 no Ano 1 e de 9,81 t ha-1 no Ano 2 com, respectivamente, 109 e 118 kg ha-1 de N. O número total de rizomas filho por planta foi próximo nos dois anos (16,45 ud/planta no Ano 1 e 17,76 ud/planta no Ano 2). O número de rizomas refugo representou 35,32 e 46,51% do total por planta, no Ano 1 e 2, respectivamente, indicando o menor crescimento dos rizomas no Ano 2. A curva de resposta do taro a aplicação de doses de N em cobertura foi semelhante nos dois anos de estudo, porém os valores estimados foram influenciados pela diferença na precipitação pluvial entre os anos. No manejo da adubação nitrogenada a produtividade máxima de rizomas comercializáveis de taro foi alcançada com a aplicação de dose de N variando de 109 a 118 kg ha-1 de N.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the productive performance and starch content of rhizomes from common arrowroot ‘Vicosa’ cultivated in an intercropping with sunnhemp (Crotalaria juncea). A randomized-blocks experimental design with four replicates was adopted. Treatments consisted of three crops of arrowroot intercropped with sunnhemp, with the sunnhemp being harvested at 90, 120, and 150 days after seeding (DAS), plus a control treatment (arrowroot monocrop). At each sunnhemp harvesting time, the length of arrowroot plants, mass and nutrient production by sunnhemp, and incidence of invasive plants were evaluated. At harvesting, in addition to rhizome productivity, nutrients and starch production by the rhizomes were evaluated. The intercropping provided a greater arrowroot plant length and lower incidence of invasive plants in the area. The sunnhemp harvest performed at 90 DAS provided greater productivity of arrowroot rhizomes and starch, with the sunnhemp producing 29.7 t ha-1 of fresh matter, and 120, 18, 127, 46, and 6 kg ha-1 of N, P, K, Ca, and Mg, respectively. For most of these nutrients, the amount exported by the arrowroot rhizome was lower than that produced by the sunnhemp, indicating the possibility of improvements in soil fertility.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity and the physiological responses of summer squash ‘Menina Brasileira’ to ethylene. Immature fruits were harvested and placed in 20 L sealed buckets, in which ethylene was applied at concentrations of 0.1, 1.0, 10, 100, and 1000 μL L-1 for 24 h. Fruits were placed in buckets with no ethylene as a control treatment. Thereafter, the fruits were taken out of the buckets and maintained on bench, wherein on days 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8, they were evaluated regarding the accumulated fresh weight loss, soluble sugars, reducing and non-reducing sugars, starch, total chlorophyll, content of malondialdehyde, and electrolyte leakage. Fruits of summer squash ‘Menina Brasileira’ showed sensitivity to exogenous ethylene with no weight loss stimulation. Additionally, the fruits exhibited small changes in nutritional quality attributes and changes in the external fruit appearance, including decreased chlorophyll content as well as damage to cell membrane characterized by increase in malondialdehyde content and electrolyte leakage. These changes were stimulated by increasing exogenous ethylene concentration. RESUMO O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a sensibilidade e as respostas fisiológicas da abobrinha ‘Menina Brasileira’ a diferentes doses de etileno. Os frutos foram colhidos, homogeneizados e colocados em baldes de 20 litros hermeticamente fechados, nos quais foram aplicadas doses de etileno nas concentrações de 0,1; 1,0; 10; 100 e 1000 μL L-1 durante 24 h, além do controle. Posteriormente, os frutos foram retirados dos baldes e mantidos sobre bancada, onde aos dias 0, 2, 4, 6 e 8 foram avaliados quanto à perda de peso fresco e teores de açúcar solúvel total, açúcar redutor e não redutor, amido, clorofila, conteúdo de malonaldeído e extravasamento de eletrólitos. Os frutos da abobrinha ‘Menina Brasileira’ apresentaram sensibilidade ao etileno exógeno sem estimular a perda de peso fresco. Ademais, os frutos exibiram pequenas alterações nos atributos de qualidade nutricional, além de mudanças no aspecto externo dos frutos, como diminuição do teor de clorofila e injúria por danos à membrana celular, caracterizada pelo aumento do conteúdo de malonaldeído e extravasamento de eletrólitos. Essas alterações foram estimuladas em resposta ao aumento da concentração de etileno.

O índice SPAD para o diagnóstico do estado de nitrogênio das culturas tem sido muito estudado nos últimos anos. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o emprego do índice SPAD para o diagnóstico do estado de nitrogênio na cultura do pepino japonês (híbrido Taisho) em ambiente protegido. O experimento foi conduzido no delineamento em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 2x5, constituído de duas fontes (sulfato de amônio e nitrato de amônio) e cinco doses (0; 75; 150; 300 e 600 kg ha-1) de nitrogênio, com quatro repetições. No início do florescimento, o teor de clorofila total, índice SPAD e teor de nitrogênio foram determinados na quarta folha completamente expandida, a partir do ápice das plantas. Não foram verificados efeitos significativos de fontes e da interação entre fontes e doses de nitrogênio sobre as características avaliadas. Entretanto, o teor de clorofila total, índice SPAD e teor de nitrogênio aumentaram de forma quadrática em função das doses de nitrogênio. Os níveis críticos foliares estimados de teor de clorofila total, índice SPAD e teor de nitrogênio responsáveis pela máxima produtividade da cultura do pepino japonês foram de 6,01 mg g-1 de matéria fresca, 52,33 unidades SPAD e 4,78 dag kg-1 de matéria seca, respectivamente. Houve correlação linear e positiva das características avaliadas entre si. O índice SPAD, determinado no início da fase reprodutiva, pode ser usado no diagnóstico do estado de nitrogênio da cultura do pepino japonês. The employment of SPAD index for N status diagnosis of crops has been largely studied in recent years. Our objective was to evaluate the employment of SPAD index for nitrogen status diagnosis of Japanese cucumber plants (Taisho hybrid) under protected cultivation. The randomized block design was used, arranged in a 2x5 factorial design, with two nitrogen sources (ammonium sulfate and ammonium nitrate) and five nitrogen doses (0; 75; 150; 300 and 600 kg ha-1), with four replications. At the early flowering stage, total chlorophyll concentration, SPAD index and total nitrogen concentration in the fourth fully expanded leaf from the apex of Japanese cucumber plants were evaluated. No significant effects of nitrogen sources and of the interaction between nitrogen sources and nitrogen doses were found under the evaluated characteristics. However, total chlorophyll concentration, SPAD index and total nitrogen concentration in Japanese cucumber leaves increased following a quadratic model depending on the nitrogen doses. The estimated critical levels of total chlorophyll concentration, SPAD index and total nitrogen concentration on Japanese cucumber (Taisho hybrid) leaves responsible for the highest fruit yield were 6.01 mg g-1 of fresh matter, 52.33 units and 4.78 dag kg-1 of dry matter, respectively. Significant linear and positive correlation between the evaluated characteristics were observed. The SPAD index can be used for nitrogen status diagnosis of Japanese cucumber plants.

Não consta o número do DOI, por isso foi disponibilizado o link de acesso. A dose ótima de nitrogênio (N) na cultura da batata depende do sistema de produção. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a dose ótima de N para a produção de minitubérculos de batata-semente básica e avaliar o efeito de doses de N sobre índices nitrogenados e fisiológicos determinados na folha mais jovem completamente desenvolvida (quarta folha) e na folha mais velha da planta, aos 60 dias após o plantio. O experimento foi realizado em ambiente protegido, no Departamento de Fitotecnia da Universidade Federal de Viçosa. Os tratamentos foram constituídos por cinco doses de N (0, 45, 90, 180 e 360 mg dm -3 ), sendo 10% de cada dose aplicada em pré-plantio e o restante via água de irrigação, diariamente, por 30 dias. As doses de N influenciaram positivamente os índices fisiológicos (comprimento, largura, área foliar, número de folíolos, massas de matérias fresca e seca) e nitrogenados (teor e conteúdo de N e N-NO 3 na matéria seca e índice SPAD) tanto na quarta folha quanto na folha velha. Da mesma forma, doses de N influenciaram positivamente o número e a massa de tubérculos colhidos. O maior número (5,44 tubérculos/planta) e a máxima massa de tubérculos (243,5 g/planta) foram obtidos com 360,0 e 332,9 mg dm -3 de N, respectivamente. Portanto, número e massa de tubérculos não foram otimizados pela mesma dose de N. O índice crítico SPAD na quarta folha foi 38,8, sendo essa mais sensível ao efeito de doses de N do que a folha mais velha. The optimal dose of nitrogen (N) in potato crop depends on the production system. The objective of this study was to determine the optimal dose of N for the production of basic potato seed minitubers and evaluate the effect of N rates on physiological and nitrogen indices in the youngest fully developed leaf (fourth leaf) and in the oldest leaf of the plants at 60 days after planting. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse at the Departamento de Fitotecnia da Universidade Federal de Viçosa. The treatments consisted of five N rates (0, 45, 90, 180 and 360 mg dm -3 ), with 10% of each dose applied at planting and the remainder through irrigation water, daily, for 30 days. The nitrogen rates positively influenced the physiological indices (length, width, leaf area, number of leaves, fresh mass and dry mass) and nitrogen (level and content of N and N-NO 3 in the dry mass and SPAD) both in the fourth leaf and in the oldest leaf. Likewise, the N rates positively influenced the number and mass of harvested tubers. The largest number (5.44 tubers/plant) and the maximum mass of tubers (243.5 g/plant) were obtained with 360.0 and 332.9 mg N dm -3 , respectively. Therefore, the mass and number of tubers were not optimized by the same N rate. The critical SPAD index was 38.8 in the fourth leaf, which was more sensitive to the effect of N rates than the oldest leaf.

Apesar da importância da abobrinha em termos comerciais e alimentícios, poucos estudos têm sido realizados em relação à adubação nitrogenada da cultura. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a produtividade e o acúmulo de nitrato nos frutos da abobrinha (cv. Caserta) em função da adubação nitrogenada. O experimento foi desenvolvido no delineamento de blocos casualizados, com cinco doses de N (0; 50; 100; 200 e 400 kg ha^-1), com quatro repetições. Foram avaliados: número de frutos por planta, massa média de frutos, produtividade da cultura e acúmulo de nitrato nos frutos. Todas as características avaliadas foram significativamente influenciadas (p

The correct management of fertilization in cauliflower crop can be obtained by synchronizing the plant demand with the N supply during the crop cycle. There is no study indicating that the SPAD index can be used in the eval­uation of nitrogen nutrition of cauliflower. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the nitrogen nutritional status of cauliflower using the SPAD index, and curd yield as a function of nitrogen fertilization. Four rates of N in topdressing (0, 150, 300, and 450 kg ha -1 ) were evaluated in the experimental design of randomized blocks with four replicates. The final harvest of curds occurred from 68 to 76 days after transplanting. The first- and second-year results showed a significant difference. Curd fresh mass showed a quadratic adjustment, with the maximum value of 1,435 and 1,611 g, estimated with the rates of 331 and 307 kg ha -1 N, in the first and second year, respectively. The critical levels for leaf total N content were between 48.4 and 57.8 g kg -1 ; and for SPAD units, between 55.90 and 66.63. The nitrogen nutritional status of cauliflower can be estimated using the SPAD index. The critical level for the SPAD index and leaf N content varied from year to year. Higher production of cauliflower curd fresh mass can be obtained with the application of N rates higher than currently recommended.

In this study the objective was to evaluate the quality of Yellow hybrid Gold Mine (Group Inodorus) and Charentais hybrid Fleuron (Group Cantaloupensis) influenced by the fruit size. The experiment was conduced between 11/24/2003 and 03/11/2004 at the Federal University of Vicosa. The fruits were harvested 42 days after anthesis at commercial stage and graded as type 6 (1.63 kg), 9 (1.05 kg) and 12 (0.74 kg) fruits/box with capacity of 10 kg of Gold Mine and type 4 (1.37 kg), 6 (0.90 kg) and 8 (0.64 kg) fruits/box with capacity of 5 kg of Fleuron fruits. For the hybrid Gold Mine the pulp firmness, pericarp thickness and respiration were higher in the fruits type 6. However, the total soluble solids were reduced and the ethylene production increased in smaller fruits. In the hybrid Fleuron the pulp pH, firmness, titrable acidity, total soluble solids and ethylene production were higher in fruits graded as type 4, but the pericarp thickness diminished with the reduction of the fruit size. The results of this experiment suggest that fruits with smaller fresh weight are qualitatively inferior regardless the hybrid.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência da temperatura de armazenamento e do uso do filme de cloreto de polivinila (PVC) sobre a perda de matéria fresca e água, incidência de danos causados por frio e metabolismo pós-colheita dos carboidratos, em raízes tuberosas de mandioquinha-salsa (Arracacia xanthorrhiza). O filme de PVC reduziu a perda de matéria fresca e manteve o teor de água das raízes, durante o armazenamento por 60 dias a 5 e 10ºC. Os danos causados por frio foram inibidos nas raízes embaladas em filme de PCV, em ambas as temperaturas de armazenamento. As baixas temperaturas induziram o acúmulo de açúcares solúveis e a degradação de amido e, para as raízes armazenadas sem PVC, o aumento do conteúdo dos açúcares solúveis foi transiente e a taxa de degradação de amido foi superior à das raízes armazenadas com PVC. The objective of this work was to evaluate the influence of the storage temperature and stretch polyvinylchloride (PVC) film on the loss of fresh weight and water, on the development of chilling injury symptoms, and on the postharvest metabolism of carbohydrates, in arracacha tuber roots (Arracacia xanthorrhiza). The PVC film reduced the fresh weight loss and kept water content in the roots during 60-day storage period at 5 and 10ºC. PVC film in both storage temperatures inhibited the development of external and internal chilling injury symptoms. The low temperatures induced the increase of soluble sugar content and decrease of starch concentration, where the increase in soluble sugar was transient in roots stored without PVC film, and the rate of starch degradation was higher compared to the roots stored with PVC.

The biomass accumulation (cormels and total plant dry weight), yield (fresh weight and number of cormels) and "Metsubure" incidence in taro cormels was evaluated on plants submitted to distinct potassium (K) fertilizer rates, with and without calcium (Ca) application. The experiment was conduced in a glasshouse from 10/19/2002 to 07/20/2003, with the taro 'Chines' (BGH 5928). Five K levels (0; 150; 300; 600 and 1,200 mg K2O kg-1 of soil), and absence or presence of Ca (0 and 232 mg Ca dm-3 of soil), were evaluated in a 5 x 2 factorial scheme, disposed in completely randomized design, with four replicates. The biomass accumulation and taro yield presented the same behavior in response to K rates, with and without Ca application. Biomass accumulation and yield maximum values were obtained at K2O rates of 794 and 760 mg kg-1 with Ca addition, respectively. Under low K supply, corms dry weight, total plant dry weight, cormels fresh weight and cormels number were higher in the absence of Ca application; this trend was inverted when K2O rate reached 85; 46; 202, and 578 mg kg-1 of soil, respectively. Without Ca application, increased K rates led to increasing in cormels Ca contents; on the other hand, independently of Ca application, cormels K contents increased with the increasing in the K rates. Only without Ca application and K2O rates of 600 and 1,200 mg kg-1 of soil were observed 6.56 and 9.84% of "Metsubure" incidence in taro cormels, respectively.

A abóbora híbrida tipo "Tetsukabuto" apresenta crescente importância no Brasil, sobretudo no estado de Minas Gerais mas, poucos estudos têm sido conduzidos em relação à adubação. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a produtividade e o acúmulo de nitrato na abóbora híbrida tipo "Tetsukabuto" (cv. Suprema) submetida à adubação nitrogenada. O experimento foi conduzido no delineamento em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 2x5, constituído de duas fontes (sulfato de amônio e nitrato de amônio), cinco doses (0; 50; 100; 200 e 400 kg ha-1de N) e quatro repetições. Foram avaliados o número de frutos/planta, massa média de frutos, produtividade da cultura e acúmulo de nitrato nos frutos. Não foram verificados efeitos significativos de fontes e da interação entre fontes e doses de N sobre as características produtivas, mas essas foram aumentadas em função das doses de N aplicadas. Os valores de máximo número de frutos/planta (6,9 unidades), máxima massa média de frutos (1,76 kg/fruto) e máxima produtividade de frutos (17,16 t ha-1) foram obtidos nas doses 339, 217 e 260 kg ha-1 de N, respectivamente. As doses de máxima eficiência econômica de N foram de 251 e 238 kg ha-1, resultando em produtividades de frutos de 17,15 e 17,07 t ha-1, para o sulfato de amônio e nitrato de amônio, respectivamente. Não foi verificado aumento do teor de nitrato nos frutos com o emprego das doses de N na forma de sulfato de amônio. Entretanto, o teor de nitrato nos frutos apresentou incremento linear em função das doses de N na forma de nitrato de amônio, verificando-se, com a dose máxima, teor de nitrato na matéria fresca de fruto de 406 mg kg-1, valor que não representa risco para a saúde humana. The importance of hybrid winter squash ("Tetsukabuto" type) is rising in Brazil, especially in Minas Gerais state, but few studies have been carried out in relation to fertilization. We evaluated yield and nitrate accumulation in fruits of hybrid winter squash ("Tetsukabuto" type) depending on the nitrogen fertilization in Viçosa, Minas Gerais state, Brazil. The randomized block experimental design was used, arranged in a 2x5 factorial design, with two nitrogen sources (ammonium sulphate and ammonium nitrate) and five nitrogen doses (0; 50; 100; 200 and 400 kg ha-1), and four replications. The number of fruits per plant, average fruit mass, fruit yield and nitrate accumulation in the fruits were evaluated. No significant effects of nitrogen sources and of the interaction between nitrogen sources and nitrogen doses was found on the productive characteristics of the hybrid winter squash, but these characteristics were increased depending on the N doses applied. The highest number of fruits/plant (6.9 units), highest average fruit mass (1.76 kg/fruit) and highest fruit yield (17.16 t ha-1) were obtained in the doses 339, 217 and 260 kg ha-1 of N, respectively. The rates of N for maximum economic efficiency were 251 and 238 kg ha-1, resulting in fruit yields of 17.15 and 17.07 t ha-1, for the ammonium sulfate and ammonium nitrate, respectively. Nitrate accumulation in fruits employing N doses in the form of ammonium sulfate was not verified. However, the nitrate content in the fruits presented lineal increment depending on the N doses in the form of ammonium nitrate. At the highest N rate, the nitrate content in the fruit fresh matter was 406 mg kg-1. However, this nitrate content value does not represent risk for human health.

Summary A greenhouse experiment using nutritive solution was carried out to determine the effect of aluminium (AI) on several photosynthesis-related characteristics in Citrus limonia (‘Cravo’), Citrus volkameriana (‘Volkamer’), Citrus reshni (‘Cleopatra’), and Citrus sunki (‘Sunki’) seedlings. The effects of five AI concentrations (0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 μmol L -1 ) in the solution were determined. The lemon seedlings had the highest net photosynthesis in the absence of AI. The net photosynthesis decreased in the presence of AI in all the rootstocks, and the ‘Cravo’ lemon seedling was the most affected, with a decrease of 85% at the highest AI concentration evaluated. Stomatal conductance of water vapor (g s ) was not significantly affected in the lemon seedlings, but it was increased by the AI in the tangerine seedlings. The internal concentration of CO 2 (C i ) increased significantly in all the rootstocks with the increase in the AI concentration, but this increase did not result in higher net photosynthesis values. The greatest water use efficiency (WUE) in the absence of AI, was observed in the lemon seedlings. The WUE decreased in all rootstocks with the increase in the AI concentration in the nutritive solution, due to the decrease in the net photosynthesis and increase in the transpiration rate. One of the probable reasons for the reduction in the net photosynthesis was the structural damage to the thylakoids, which affected the photosynthetic transport of electrons, as indicated by the reduction of the ratio between variable fluorescence and initial fluorescence (F v /F 0 ).

Transfer of nodulated and non-nodulated plants grown in vermiculite to hydroponic culture without soil was used to study waterlogging and nitrogen transport in the xylem of soybean. Non-aeration, aeration or aeration with nitrogen gas were used to obtain different levels of oxygen in the culture solutions. Ureides, the principal form of nitrogen transport in nodulated plants, were considerably reduced in waterlogged plants or after transfer to water-culture, especially when not aerated or aerated with nitrogen gas. Aeration of the water-culture following a period of non-aeration allowed some recovery of ureides, as did the return of plants to drained vermiculite. Although smaller changes in the total amino acid fraction were observed for the different treatments, marked changes occurred in the composition depending on the treatment imposed. A high proportion of asparagine and low glutamine characterised non-nodulated plants grown on nitrate, or nodulated plants subsequently fed nitrate. A higher level of glutamine and lower level of asparagine characterised nodulated plants dependent on nitrogen fixation. High levels of aspartic acid characterised plants transferred to water-culture with aeration, especially in N-deficient solution, while alanine and serine were very prominent in non-aerated or hypoxic water-culture. These changes also occurred in non-nodulated plants and plants kept in vermiculite in a flooded condition. Some of the changes in transport were accompanied by similar changes in the free amino acid fraction of the roots. It is suggested that an alteration in asparagine metabolism may underlie the changes in amino acid transport in the xylem associated with waterlogging.

A dose ótima de nitrogênio (N) na cultura da batata depende do sistema de produção. O objetivo do trabalho foi determinar a dose ótima de N para a produção de minitubérculos de batata-semente básica em hidroponia e verificar o desenvolvimento da planta no sistema hidropônico em plataforma de telha amianto. O experimento foi realizado em ambiente protegido, no Departamento de Fitotecnia da Universidade Federal de Viçosa, utilizando o plantio de broto da cultivar Asterix. Os tratamentos foram constituídos por quatro doses de N (45; 90; 180 e 270 mg L-1), sendo 10% de cada dose de N aplicadas na forma de nitrato de amônio (N-NH4+) e o restante de N na forma de nitrato de cálcio e nitrato de potássio. O maior número (14,1 tubérculos/planta) e a máxima massa de tubérculos (68,4 g/planta) foram obtidos com 188,9 e 270 mg L-1 de N, respectivamente. Portanto, número e massa de tubérculos não foram otimizados pela mesma dose de N. O índice crítico SPAD na quarta folha é variável com a idade da planta sendo de 38,4 o maior valor atingido aos 58 DAT. The optimal nitrogen (N) rate for potato crops depends on the production system. The objective of this study was to determine the optimal rate of N for the production of minitubers of the basic seed potato grown hydroponically, and to verify the development of the plant in a hydroponic system using a platform of asbestos tiles. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse at the Department of Plant Science of the Federal University of Viçosa, using shoots of the Asterix cultivar. The treatments consisted of four levels of N (45, 90, 180 and 270 mg L-1), with 10% of each dose of N being applied as ammonium nitrate (N-NH4+) and the remainder in the form of calcium nitrate and potassium nitrate. The largest number (14.1 tubers per plant) and the maximum weight of tubers (68.4 g per plant) were obtained with 188.9 and 270 mg L-1 N respectively. Therefore, the number and weight of tubers were not optimized by the same rate of N. The critical SPAD index in the fourth leaf varies with the age of the plan,t with 38.4 being the largest value reached at 58 DAT.

Objetivou-se com este trabalho determinar a produção de mini-tubérculos de batata semente básica em função da dose e do parcelamento do nitrogênio (N) aplicado ao substrato. Os tratamentos foram constituídos por quatro doses de N (0, 115, 230, 460 mg L-1 de substrato) e por cinco modos de parcelamento das doses (M): M1 [10% no plantio + 90% aos 21 dias após a emergência (DAE)]; M2 [10% no plantio + 3% diariamente (21 a 51 DAE)]; M3 [50% no plantio + 50% aos 21 DAE]; M4 [50% no plantio + 1,6% diariamente (21 a 51 DAE)]; M5 (100% no plantio). O experimento foi instalado no delineamento em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 4x5 (doses x modos), com três repetições, na Universidade Federal de Viçosa. As cultivares plantadas foram Atlantic e Opaline, utilizando-se mini-tubérculos da categoria básica. As plantas foram cultivadas em vasos de 3 L, contendo substrato comercial. Aos 25, 35 e 56 DAE foram avaliados o teor (TN) e quantidade de N na folha (QNA). Na colheita, aos 86 DAE, foram avaliados número e massas fresca e seca de tubérculos. Em ambas as cultivares, na fase inicial de crescimento da planta, nenhuma combinação de tratamentos (dose e modo) influenciou TN. Nas avaliações posteriores, TN aumentou com aumento da dose de N. Nas duas cultivares, QNA não foi afetado pela aplicação diluída das doses de N. Nenhuma combinação de dose e modo de aplicação do fertilizante nitrogenado influenciou o número de tubérculos. Quando houve efeito de dose de N sobre a massa de tubérculos, a dose zero proporcionou o maior valor da massa. A aplicação concentrada de N no momento da tuberização é prejudicial para a planta, pois reduz a massa seca e fresca de tubérculos. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of both N fertilizer rates and split applications on yield of basic class seed potato mini-tubers. Treatments were four N rates (0, 115, 230, 460 mg L-1) and five split modes: M1 [10% at planting + 90% at 21 days after plant emergence (DAE)]; M2 [10% at planting + 3% daily (21 to 51 DAE)]; M3 (50% at planting + 50% at 21 DAE); M4 [50% at planting + 1.6% daily (21 to 51 DAE)]; M5 (100% at planting). The experiment was set up in randomized blocks design in factorial arrangement 4x5 (rates x modes), with three replications. We planted the cultivars Atlantic and Opaline, using basic commercial mini-tubers. Plants were grown in 3 L pots containing commercial substrate. At 25, 35 and 56 DAE we assessed the content (TN) and amount of N (QNA) in the leaf. At harvest, 86 DAE, we determined the number of tubers and fresh and dry tubers mass. For both cultivars, in the early stages of plant growth, neither combination of rate and split modes of nitrogen affected the TN. In subsequent evaluations, TN increased with increasing dose of N. In both cultivars, QNA was not affected by application of diluted doses of N. No combination of dose and split mode of nitrogen fertilizer application influenced the number of tubers. When there was effect of N rate on tuber mass, the zero rates provided the highest value of this variable. The concentrated application of N at the tuberization time is harmful for the plant because it reduces both dry and fresh tuber masses.

O nitrogênio é um dos elementos de grande impacto na produtividade da batata, e seu efeito nas plantas pode ser avaliado por meio de técnicas de diagnóstico do estado nutricional. Este trabalho teve o objetivo de determinar a dose ótima econômica de N para a produção de tubérculos e estimar o nível crítico de índices do estado de N na folha de duas cultivares de batata. O experimento foi conduzido de maio a agosto de 2008, em delineamento em blocos ao acaso em esquema fatorial 4 x 2, sendo quatro doses de N (0, 100, 200 e 400 kg ha-1 de N, aplicadas em pré-plantio como ureia) e duas cultivares de batata (Ágata e Asterix), com quatro repetições. Aos 21 dias após a emergência foram determinadas a leitura SPAD e os teores de N e de clorofila na quarta folha a partir do ápice (QF). A produtividade de tubérculos comerciais aumentou até 45.065 e 46.500 kg ha-1 com o aumento da dose de N até 297 e 250 kg ha-1 para Ágata e Asterix, respectivamente. Para essas cultivares, a dose para obtenção da máxima eficiência econômica foi de 290 e 245 kg ha-1 de N, respectivamente. Nas duas cultivares, houve efeito positivo de doses de N sobre o índice SPAD e teores de N e de clorofila na QF. Os valores críticos foram de 40,5 e 43,7 para o índice SPAD, de 66,7 e 75,2 g kg-1 para o teor foliar de N e de 6,13 e 6,96 mg g-1 para o teor de clorofila total na matéria fresca das folhas, respectivamente, para Ágata e Asterix. Os valores da leitura do índice SPAD correlacionaram-se com os valores de clorofila total extraível na quarta folha e com a produção de tubérculos de batata, indicando a possibilidade de medir o valor SPAD aos 21 DAE para prognosticar a produtividade de tubérculos de batata. Nitrogen has strong impact on potato yield and its effects on plants can be evaluated by specific nutritional diagnostic techniques. The objective of this work was to determine the optimum economical N rate for tuber yield and to estimate the critical value of plant N indices in leaf of two potatoes cultivars. The experiment had a 4x2 factorial in a completely randomized block design with four replications, with four N levels (0, 100, 200 e 400 kg ha-1 of N, pre-planting applied as urea) and two potato cultivars (Ágata e Asterix), from April to June 2008. SPAD reading values, nitrogen and chlorophyll contents were determined in the fourth leaf from the apex 21 days after plant emergence. Marketable tuber yield of Ágata and Asterix increased up to 45,065 e 46,500 kg ha-1 as N rates increased up to 297 and 250 kg ha-1 for Agata and Asterix, respectively. The maximum economic efficiency rate of these cultivars was 290 and 245 kg ha-1 of N, respectively. For both cultivars, the N effect on SPAD values, nitrogen and chlorophyll contents were positive and significant. Critical values were 40.5 and 43.7 for SPAD readings, 66.7 and 75.2 g kg-1 for leaf N concentration, and 6.13 and 6.96 mg g-1 for total leaf chlorophyll contents, respectively, for Agata and Asterix. The SPAD reading values correlated with the values of extractable total chlorophyll in the fourth leaf and potato tuber yields at the final harvest, indicating the possibility of using SPAD measurement at 21 days after plant emergence to prognostic final potato tuber yield.

Existem diversos relatos da utilização da urina de vaca em hortaliças, todavia sua eficácia carece de comprovação. Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da urina de vaca no estado nutricional da alface. O experimento foi constituído de 12 tratamentos, esquema de parcelas subdivididas, em blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições. Nas parcelas foram alocadas as vias de aplicação (solo ou foliar) e nas subparcelas as concentrações das soluções (0,00; 0,25; 0,50; 0,75; 1,00 e 1,25% v/v). Aplicou-se 60 mL de solução/planta, divididos em cinco aplicações de 5; 5; 10; 20 e 20 mL/planta, aos 7, 14, 21, 28 e 35 após o transplante, respectivamente. Durante o ciclo avaliou-se o índice SPAD e na colheita a massa da matéria seca de cabeça (MSCA) e os teores de N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Na, Zn, Fe, Mn, Cu e B na matéria seca das folhas (MSF), caule (MSC) e raízes (MSR). Em ambas as vias de aplicação o índice SPAD apresentou incremento linear às concentrações e resposta quadrática ao longo do tempo. A MSCA teve comportamento linear às concentrações, com aumento de 25,9 e 35,4% nas aplicações via foliar e solo, respectivamente. Não houve efeito de concentrações sobre teores de nutrientes na MSF e MSC. Na MSR, via solo, os teores de P e K apresentaram pontos de máximo enquanto Fe e Mn de mínimo; o Na apresentou incremento linear às concentrações via foliar. Os efeitos da urina sobre o crescimento da alface provavelmente são devidos a fatores outros que não somente a quantidade de nutrientes veiculados nas soluções. There are reports of the use of cow urine in vegetable crops, but its efficacy needs to be confirmed. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of cow urine on the nutritional status of lettuce. The experiment consisted of 12 treatments arranged in a split-plot design and four randomized blocks. The ways of application (soil or foliar) were allocated in plots while the subplots consisted of solution concentrations (0.00; 0.25; 0.50; 0.75; 1.00 and 1.25 % v/v). It was applied 60 mL of solution/plant, divided into five applications of 5; 5; 10; 20 and 20 mL/plant, at 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days after transplant, respectively. The SPAD index was evaluated during the crop cycle. At harvest it was determined the head dry matter (HDM) and the contents of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Na, Zn, Fe, Mn, Cu and B in the dry matter of leaves (DML), stems (DMS) and roots (DMR). For both ways of application, the SPAD index showed a linear increase in response to concentrations and a quadratic response over time. HDM presented a linear response to concentrations, with increasesof 25.9 and 35.4 % in the foliar and soil applications respectively. No effect of concentrations was observed on nutrient contents of DML and DMS. For DMR, with soil application, there was a maximum point for P and K and minimum for Fe and Mn; Na showed a linear increase in response to concentrations with foliar application. The effects of urinesolutions on lettuce growth may be caused by other factors than the amounts of nutrients present in the solutions.

The storage of minimally processed vegetables at low temperatures, in association with proper packaging, represents one of the available technological solutions to mitigate the variations that hinder the quality of final products during storage. We studied the physicochemical variations that occur straight after minimal processing, as well as those that occur during the storage of minimally processed and intact leaves of collard greens (Brassica oleracea var. acephala), stored in 50-µm thick polypropylene bags, with 810-μm diameter perforations. Leaves were stored for 15 and 9 days, at 5 and 10± 1ºC, respectively. There were losses of total chlorophyll, soluble sugars, starch, and soluble amino acids immediately after the minimal processing. The rates of degradation and/or use of chlorophyll, ascorbic acid, soluble sugars, and starch during storage were similar on minimally processed and intact leaves, independently of the storage temperature. On contrary, fresh mass loss was almost two fold larger in minimally processed leaves after nine days of storage, regardless of temperature. We also observed a transient increase in the content of soluble amino acids at the end of storage in minimally processed leaves. The increase in the storage temperature to 10°C enhanced the chemical variations both in minimally processed and intact leaves. As consequence, the rates of degradation and/or use of chlorophyll, ascorbic acid, sugars and starch mounted, and the accumulation of soluble amino acids was stimulated. We concluded that it is necessary to keep on searching for alternative packaging for minimally processed collard greens, and to associate it with storage at low temperatures, but mimicking distribution and commercialization conditions of the cold-chain. Thus, we can succeed in adequately reducing the physicochemical variations that induce quality losses in minimally processed vegetables. A conservação de hortaliças minimamente processadas em baixas temperaturas, em associação com o uso de embalagens adequadas, continua sendo uma das soluções tecnológicas utilizadas para minimizar ou retardar as mudanças que ocorrem durante a conservação. Foram estudadas as alterações físico-químicas causadas logo após o processamento mínimo e durante a conservação de folhas de couve-comum (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) inteiras e minimamente processadas, mantidas em sacos de polipropileno de 50 µm de espessura, com perfurações de 810 µm de diâmetro. As folhas foram conservadas por 15 e 9 dias, a 5 e 10± 1ºC, respectivamente. Logo após o processamento mínimo observou-se perda de clorofilas totais, açúcares solúveis, amido e aminoácidos solúveis. As taxas de degradação e/ou utilização da clorofila total, ácido ascórbico, açúcares solúveis e amido durante a conservação das folhas inteiras e minimamente processadas mantidas a 5 e/ou 10± 1ºC foram semelhantes, com exceção para perda de massa fresca e aminoácidos solúveis. As folhas minimamente processadas apresentaram perda de massa fresca quase duas vezes superior às folhas inteiras com nove dias de conservação, independentemente da temperatura. Um aumento transitório no teor de aminoácidos solúveis no final da conservação também foi observado em folhas minimamente processadas. O aumento da temperatura de conservação para 10ºC potencializou as alterações químicas tanto em folhas inteiras e minimamente processadas, resultando em elevadas taxas de degradação e/ou utilização de clorofilas, ácido ascórbico, açúcares e amido, além de estimular o acúmulo de aminoácidos solúveis. É necessária a contínua busca de embalagens alternativas àquelas existentes para couve minimamente processada, associado à conservação em baixas temperaturas, para simular as condições de distribuição e comercialização e, assim, minimizar as alterações físico-químicas que reduzem a qualidade do produto final.

Avaliou-se o efeito de três espaçamentos (80x30, 60x30 e 40x30 cm) e de cinco doses de N (0, 75, 150, 225 e 300 kg ha-1) sobre a produção de massa seca (MS), teores e exportação de macronutrientes na cultura do repolho. Conduziu-se o experimento a campo, na Horta de Pesquisas do Departamento de Fitotecnia da Universidade Federal de Viçosa, no período de 23/09 a 20/12/2002. Utilizou-se o esquema parcelas subdivididas, delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições, sendo os espaçamentos dispostos nas parcelas e as doses de N nas subparcelas. Na colheita das cabeças, retiraram-se amostras das folhas as quais, após secas a 65ºC, foram submetidas às análises para os teores de N (N-NO3- e N-total), P, K, Ca, Mg e S. Incremento das doses de N proporcionou aumento da produção de MS, dos teores de N (N-NO3- e N-total), P e Mg e das quantidades de macronutrientes exportadas pela cultura. Aumento no espaçamento proporcionou maiores teores de N (N-NO3- e N-total), P, S e Ca, e menor produção de massa seca e da quantidade de K exportada pela colheita. The effects of three plant spacings (80x30, 60x30, and 40x30 cm) and five nitrogen rates (0, 75, 150, 225, and 300 kg ha-1) were evaluated on biomass yield, macronutrient uptake and tissue concentration of cabbage. A field experiment was carried out at the Universidade Federal de Viçosa from 09/23 to 12/20/2002. The experiment was set in a split-plot design with four replications. Spacings were assigned to the main plots and the N rates were set in the split-plot, arranged in a completely randomized design. At the harvest time, leaves were detached, oven dried and analyzed for N (N-NO3- and N-total), P, K, Ca, Mg, and S contents. Increasing N rates led to an increase in biomass yield, N (N-NO3- and N-total), P, and Mg contents and macronutrient uptake of cabbage. Increasing plant spacings led to lower biomass yield and K uptake and increase in N (N-NO3- and N-total), P, S, and Ca contents of cabbage.

Neste trabalho, as raízes de batata-baroa (Arracacia xanthorrhiza Bancroft) foram armazenas em câmaras frias, à temperatura de 5 e 10ºC, por 28 dias. A cada sete dias, as raízes eram retiradas da condição de frio, e realizada análise visual dos sintomas de injúria por frio. Em seguida, as raízes foram maceradas para determinação das atividades da peroxidase, polifenoloxidase e da concentração dos compostos fenólicos solúveis. As temperaturas de 5 e 10ºC estimularam o escurecimento externo e interno das raízes durante o armazenamento, com maior intensidade para a temperatura de 5oC. Em ambas as temperaturas, houve elevação da atividade da polifenoloxidase, peroxidase e da concentração de compostos fenólicos, a partir da exposição dos tecidos ao frio. A atividade da polifenoloxidase e a concentração de compostos fenólicos solúveis aumentaram após o 14º dia de exposição às duas temperaturas. A atividade da peroxidase aumentou até o 7º dia de armazenamento em ambas as temperaturas, mantendo-se praticamente constante, após este período, a 5 e a 10ºC, a maior atividade ocorreu no 14º dia de armazenamento. Estes resultados indicam atuação inicial da peroxidase como uma resposta inicial ao estresse causado pela colheita e o frio e posterior participação de polifenoloxidase no escurecimento enzimático e acúmulo de compostos fenólicos nos tecidos. In this experiment roots of arracacha (Arracacia xanthorrhiza Bancroft) were stored at temperature of 5 and 10oC for 28 days. At every seven days, the roots were removed from the cold storage and visually analyzed for the presence of chilling symptoms. Afterwards, the roots were grinded for polyphenoloxidase, peroxidase activities and soluble phenolic compounds. Both temperature of 5 and 10oC induced external and internal darkening of the roots, with higher intensity at 5oC. Activities of polyphenoloxidase, peroxidase and content of phenolic compounds were enhanced at cold storage. Activity of polyphenoloxidase and content of phenolic substances increased up to the 14th day of storage in both temperatures. The activity of peroxidase was elevated up to the seventh day of storage in both temperatures, which was kept constant at 5 and at 10oC. The highest activity was detected at the 14th day of storage. These results show that peroxidase is involved in the initial stress response to the harvest and chilling, followed by the involvement of polyphenoloxidase in the enzymatic darkening and accumulation of phenolic compounds in the tissues.

Little information is available on the influence of temperature on plastic films wrapped okra (Albelmoschus esculentus) for their postharvested conservation. This works investigated the influence of the temperature and PVC film on the development of chilling injury and storability from one of the most popular Brazilian cultivar of okra cv. Amarelinho in fruits stored at 5, 10ºC and at 25ºC. Fruits were harvest at commercial maturity stage with length ranging from 8 to 12 cm, and immediately wrapped in PVC over a polystyrene tray and than stored until visible deterioration or wilting symptoms. Lowering the temperature of storage room from 25 to 10 or 5ºC decreased the weight loss in both PVC wrapped and control fruits, with a lower rate at 5ºC. By reducing the temperature to 5 or 10ºC and wrapping the fruits in PVC film, the relative water content of the fruit pericarp was maintained throughout the storage, while at 25ºC the high weight loss was associated with significant reduction of the water content. The development of chilling symptoms was delayed by the presence of PVC film in fruits stored at 5ºC. However, at 10ºC symptoms of pitting were not developed in PVC wrapped or control fruits up to tenth day of storage. The rate of chlorophyll degradation was diminished by reducing the temperature and by wrapping the fruits with PVC film. The appearance of severe chilling symptoms at 5ºC was associated to less chlorophyll in the fruit pericarp on the control as compared to their content in the PVC wrapped fruits.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi quantificar os teores de açúcares solúveis totais (AST), açúcares redutores (AR) e amido em nove cultivares de milho colhidos no estádio verde, uma vez que estes influenciam diretamente o sabor, o aroma e a aceitação do consumidor. O experimento foi conduzido em Ponte Nova, MG, no ano agrícola 2002/2003. Para a determinação das características, foi retirada uma amostra de três espigas de cada unidade experimental. O ponto de colheita foi identificado por método empírico, quando o estilo-estigma se desprendia da espiga com facilidade. As cultivares apresentaram umidades diferentes no momento da colheita, variando de 56 a 64%. Não foi detectada diferença entre as cultivares quanto aos teores de AR, porém, P3232 e AG4051 apresentaram boa relação entre AR e AST, destacando-se para esta finalidade. Total soluble sugars (TSS), reducing sugars (RS), moisture and starch directly influence flavor and consumption. In this work, TSS, RS and starch were determined at harvest in young kernels of nine corn cultivars. The experiment was carried out in Ponte Nova, MG, Brazil. To determine chemical characters of young kernels a sample was obtained of three cobs from each experimental plot. Corn ears were harvested using an empirical method, when the silk was loose from the ear. Moisture varied among samples of different cultivars at harvest. Moisture content ranged from 56 to 64%. There were no differences among cultivars regarding RS. However, cultivars P3232 and AG4051 showed good RS to TSS ratio, being adequate for fresh consumption.

O N é fundamental para a produtividade e a qualidade das hortaliças, todavia há carência de informações sobre seu uso em beterraba de mesa. Neste trabalho objetivou-se avaliar a produtividade, a qualidade e o estado nutricional nitrogenado da beterraba em função do N aplicado. Foram utilizadas quatro doses de N (0; 100; 200 e 400 kg ha-1de N), no delineamento blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. Aos 28 dias após o transplante (dat), avaliou-se o estado nutricional nitrogenado por meio do teor de N-NO-3 nas folhas e clorofilômetro (SPAD). Na colheita (56 dat), foram avaliados: área foliar, produção de massas fresca (MF) e seca (MS) e teores de N-NO-3 e N-total nas folhas e raizes tuberosas e de sólidos solúveis totais nas raizes tuberosas. Com o incremento das doses de N, observaram-se aumentos para todas as características avaliadas. Aos 28 dias após o transplantio, o teor de N-NO-3 e unidades SPAD, correspondentes a 95% da produção máxima foram, respectivamente, de 2.575 mg kg-1 de MS e 44,7 unidades SPAD. Considerando-se apenas os aspectos quantitativo e econômico da produtividade de raizes, a dose de máxima eficiência econômica é de 343 kg ha-1 de N; todavia, ao serem considerados os aspectos quantitativo e qualitativo, a dose recomendada é de 193 kg ha-1 de N. Nitrogen is a fundamental element for the yield and quality of vegetables, but there is little information about its application to table beet crop. This work aimed to evaluate the yield, quality and nutritional status of N of the table beet as affected by the rate of N. Four rates of nitrogen were applied (0; 100; 200 and 400 kg ha-1 N) in a randomized block design with four replicates. 28 days after the transplant (dat), the nutritional N status was evaluated through the leaves content of NO-3-N and chlorophyll by the SPAD meter. At harvest (56 dat), the traits evaluated were: leaf area, yield of fresh (FW) and dry weight (DW) of storage roots and leaves contents of NO-3-N and total-N at the leaves, and storage roots and °Brix in the storage roots. With the increase of the doses of N, all the selected characteristics were increased. The NO-3-N and SPAD units at the 28 dat (95% of the maximum yield) were 2,575 mg kg-1 of DW and 44.7, respectively. Considering the quantitative and economic aspects of the yield of storage roots, the rate of 343 kg ha-1 N was the maximum economical efficiency rate. If considering the quantitative and qualitative aspects together, the 193 kg ha-1 of N was the recommended rate.

Avaliou-se o efeito de três espaçamentos (80x30; 60x30 e 40x30 cm) e cinco doses de N (0; 75; 150; 225 e 300 kg ha-1), sobre os aspectos qualitativos da produção do repolho 'Kenzan'. O experimento foi conduzido a campo, em solo com baixo teor de N sob delineamento inteiramente casualizado, esquema de parcelas subdivididas, com o fator espaçamento nas parcelas e doses de N nas subparcelas. O N foi parcelado, colocando-se 20% da dose total no transplante e aos 20 dias após o transplante (DAT) e 30% aos 35 e aos 50 DAT. A colheita se iniciou aos 65 DAT e estendeu-se até os 83 DAT. Foram avaliadas as características: massa fresca média de cabeça; diâmetros transversal e longitudinal e volume de cabeça; teores de proteína total e de NO-3 na massa fresca e a perda de massa pós-colheita durante o armazenamento. Com incremento das doses de N observou-se aumento de valores para todas as características avaliadas, exceto para perda de massa pós-colheita, em que ocorreu o inverso. A redução do espaçamento proporcionou redução da massa fresca média, do volume, dos diâmetros transversal e longitudinal e dos teores de NO-3 e de proteína das cabeças, além de maior perda de massa pós-colheita. Considerando os aspectos qualitativos (formato e dimensões) da produção, o espaçamento de 40x30 cm e a dose de 253 kg ha-1 de N, seriam os mais indicados para o cultivo visando o comércio in natura. Todavia, visando-se produto destinado ao processamento o maior espaçamento, em função do maior teor protéico e da menor perda de massa fresca pós-colheita, seria o mais indicado.

The objective of this work was to determine the early physiological changes throughout shelf life of fresh broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) cv. Piracicaba Precoce at 25ºC and relative humidity of 96% in the dark until complete senescence. Head inflorescences showed lack of turgidity and commercial value when weight loss reached up to 5%, coinciding with 48 hour after harvest. Chlorophyll content was stable until 24 hours after harvesting; afterwards, an intense degradation phase took place. At 72 hours, total head yellowing was observed when chlorophyll content dropped to 30% of its initial content. Peroxidase activity increased by 1.4 fold during the first six hours, dropping to its lowest level approximately 24 hours after harvesting. However, from this time on, an increment of activity was observed until 72 hours. At 24 hours after harvesting, respiration was reduced by 50%. At later stages of senescence, respiration of florets was stable, but in a lower level than that determined at harvest. Sharp reduction of starch and reducing sugars was observed within 24 hours after harvesting, followed by continuous period of decline in starch and non-reducing sugars. Alterações fisiológicas ocorridas durante a vida de prateleira em inflorescências de brócolis (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) cv. Piracicaba Precoce foram avaliadas durante armazenamento a 25ºC e umidade relativa de 96%. A perda de turgidez e de valor comercial das inflorescências ocorreu 48 horas após a colheita, totalizando 5% de perda da matéria fresca. O conteúdo de clorofila permaneceu inalterado até 24 horas após a colheita, seguindo-se um período de intensa degradação. As inflorescências estavam completamente amarelas 72 horas após a colheita, quando apresentavam 30% do teor inicial de clorofila. A atividade peroxidativa elevou-se em 1,4 vezes nas seis horas subseqüentes à colheita, diminuindo até 24 horas, seguido de aumento da atividade até 72 horas pós-colheita. A respiração foi reduzida em 50% nas primeiras 24 horas após a colheita, e permaneceu estável nos estádios finais do amarelecimento, mas com taxas inferiores às observadas na colheita. Os teores de amido e açúcares redutores sofreram quedas acentuadas nas 24 horas subseqüentes à colheita, bem como uma fase de persistente declínio do amido e de açúcares não-redutores.

In the management of single head broccoli nitrogen fertilization, there is no study indicating the critical level and adequate range of N content and SPAD index in the leaves to evaluate the nitrogen nutritional status. This work was carried out in two consecutive years with control without N and three rates of N (150; 300 and 450 kg ha-1). The treatments were arranged in the experimental design of random blocks, with four replications. All productive characteristics were significantly influenced by N rates. The fresh inflorescence mass reached a maximum value of 822 g with 308 kg ha-1 N. The critical levels were 61.1 g kg-1 for total N foliar content and 71.31 ud SPAD at 40 DAT. The SPAD index presented high correlations with the total N content in the leaves (r = 0.93; p61.1 g kg-1) and SPAD index (low ≤68.48; medium 68.49 to 70.47; sufficient 70.48 to 71.31 and high >71.31 ud SPAD) are proposed for assessing the N nutritional status of single head broccoli. RESUMO No manejo da adubação nitrogenada do brócolis cabeça única, não há estudo que indique nível crítico, faixa adequada do teor de N e índice SPAD nas folhas para avaliar o estado nutricional de N. Com esse objetivo realizou-se este trabalho, em dois anos consecutivos e com a testemunha sem N e três doses de N (150; 300 e 450 kg ha-1). Os tratamentos foram arranjados no delineamento experimental de blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições, nos dois anos. Todas as características produtivas foram influenciadas significativamente pelas doses de N. A massa de matéria fresca da inflorescência alcançou o valor máximo estimado de 822 g com a dose de 308 kg ha-1 de N. Os níveis críticos (aos 40 DAT) foram 61,1 g kg-1 para teor de N e 71,31 ud SPAD. O índice SPAD apresentou elevadas correlações com o teor de N total nas folhas (r = 0,93; p61,1 g kg-1) e de Índice SPAD (baixo ≤68,48; médio 68,49 a 70,47; adequado 70,48 a 71,31 e alto >71,31 ud SPAD) para avaliação do estado de N de brócolis cabeça única.