Sustainable Yield and Quality Enhancement in Cocopeat-Based Soilless Strawberry Production through Foliar Organomineral Fertilization
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The use of organomineral foliar fertilizers in soilless cultivation systems has gained increasing attention as a strategy to enhance crop productivity and fruit quality. This study investigated the effects of different foliar concentrations of an organomineral copper-based fertilizer (Smart Cu) on plant growth, yield, and fruit quality parameters under greenhouse conditions in cocopeat culture. Five treatments were evaluated: control (no application), and 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 mL L⁻¹ Smart Cu applied as foliar sprays on four dates during the growing period (15 November and 30 November 2024; 15 December and 30 December 2025). Foliar applications significantly affected chlorophyll index (SPAD) values, fruit weight, soluble solid content (SSC), early yield, total yield per plant, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity. However, crown diameter and fruit firmness were not significantly influenced. All Smart Cu treatments increased chlorophyll index compared to the control. The highest fruit weight was obtained at 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 mL L⁻¹ concentrations. Early yield was significantly enhanced at 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 mL L⁻¹, whereas the control and 2.5 mL L⁻¹ treatments showed significantly lower early yield values. The lowest early yield (188.66 g plant⁻¹) and total yield (487.65 g plant⁻¹) were recorded in the control treatment. Similarly, the highest total yield per plant was observed at 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 mL L⁻¹. All organomineral treatments improved total phenolic content and antioxidant activity compared to the control, indicating enhanced fruit biochemical quality. These findings demonstrate that foliar organomineral Smart Cu application can significantly improve physiological performance, yield, and fruit biochemical attributes in cocopeat-based soilless cultivation systems.
Authors: Semih Demirel, Nafiye Ünal
Institution: Akdeniz University
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7162124429