Physicochemical characteristics, minerals, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant capacity in fig tree fruits with macronutrient deficiencies

Abstract

In this research, effects of macronutrient deficiency (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg) on the production, physicochemical characteristics, minerals, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant capacity of fig fruits (Ficus carica L.) were evaluated using the missing element technique in a controlled hydroponic system under greenhouse conditions. N-deficient plants had no fruit production, while fruits with absence of P, K, and Ca were the most affected in terms of size, weight, and physicochemical characteristics. On the other hand, the concentration of minerals was significantly different (p<0.05), finding some interactions of synergism and antagonism between ions. Phenolic compounds increased in fruits with P and Ca deficiency, as well as the antioxidant capacity DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS (2,2'azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) in the fruits of the treatment -Ca. Regarding the FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) test, higher values were found for all treatments without minerals (-P, -K, -Ca, and -Mg) with respect to the control. The results obtained explain the responses of the fig tree subjected to nutritional deficiencies.