Response Of 'Kinnow' Mandarin To Boron Application : Foliar application of boron affects vegetative and reproductive growth and fruit quality of Kinnow mandarin

Consumption of fruits is important for human health because these are primary sources of some essential nutrients and contain phytochemicals that lower risk of chronic disease like cancer. It is well established fact that citrus is a rich source of vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber that are essential for normal growth and development and overall nutritional well-being. Pakistan occupies a prominent position among world citrus producers. Kinnow mandarin is the most important fruit of the country. Tree nutrition plays a significant role in citrus to get maximum production. Although macro nutrients occupy a major role in citrus nutrition but micro nutrients are also essential for vegetative and reproductive growth, yield and fruit quality of citrus including boron. It increases pollen grain germination, pollen tube elongation, consequently fruit set percentage and finally the yield. Most of the cultivated soils of the country are exhibiting multiple nutrient deficiencies inclusive of boron because of their alkaline-calcareous nature which is not favorable to micronutrient availability. Foliar application is a shotgun approach to supply micronutrients.