Application of Micro nutrients and Organic manures on plant growth of Dragon fruit c.v. Moroccan Red”

Abstract

This invention relates to a sustainable method for improving the growth, yield, and quality of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.), specifically the Moroccan Red variety, through the integrated application of micronutrients and organic manures. The method combines essential micronutrients such as zinc, boron, iron, and copper with organic manures like vermicompost, poultry manure, and farmyard manure to create a balanced nutrient regimen. This approach enhances plant physiological processes, improves soil fertility, and supports beneficial microbial activity, leading to better plant growth, increased fruit yield, and superior fruit quality, including improved size, color, sweetness, and shelf life. By reducing dependency on synthetic fertilizers, the invention promotes environmental sustainability and offers a cost-effective solution for farmers seeking to adopt eco-friendly agricultural practices.

Specification

Description:
Field of the Invention:
[001] The field of the invention pertains to sustainable horticultural practices, specifically focusing on the cultivation of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.), with an emphasis on the Moroccan Red variety. It involves the application of micronutrients and organic manures to enhance plant growth, yield, and fruit quality. By integrating essential micronutrients like zinc, iron, boron, and copper with organic amendments such as compost, vermicompost, and poultry manure, the invention addresses plant nutritional deficiencies while promoting soil health and fertility. This approach aims to improve crop productivity and quality sustainably, reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and contributing to eco-friendly agricultural practices.

Background of the invention and related prior art:
[002] Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.), particularly the Moroccan Red variety, is a high-value crop gaining popularity due to its nutritional benefits, vibrant appearance, and adaptability to diverse climatic conditions. However, its cultivation faces challenges such as low soil fertility, micronutrient deficiencies, and over-reliance on chemical fertilizers, which degrade soil health and harm the environment. Traditional farming practices often fail to address these issues holistically, leading to suboptimal plant growth, lower fruit yield, and reduced quality. Recognizing the need for sustainable solutions, this invention integrates micronutrients like zinc, boron, and iron with organic manures such as vermicompost and poultry manure to enhance soil fertility, plant vigor, and fruit quality. By addressing both nutritional and environmental challenges, this innovation supports sustainable horticulture and ensures better economic returns for farmers.
[003] A patent document CN102165899A discloses a method for increasing the photoremediation efficiency of plants by utilizing the joint action of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and CO2, belonging to the technical field of bioremediation for radionuclide polluted environments, in particular to a method for increasing the photoremediation radionuclide cesium of plants by utilizing the joint action of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and carbon dioxide fertilization. The method comprises the steps of: when phytolacca americana and grain amaranth are utilized to remediate radionuclide cesium polluted soil, carrying out carbon dioxide manure and simultaneously vaccinating the plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria which can resist high-concentration cesium to promote the growth of the phytolacca americana and the grain amaranth by utilizing carbon dioxide induction and microorganism joint action, remarkably improve the overground biomass liveweight of the phytolacca americana and the grain amaranth used for remediating soil and also increasing the absorptive amount of overground cesium of the phytolacca americana and the grain amaranth so as to accelerate photoremediation of the radionuclide cesium polluted soil, increase the photoremediation efficiency, and finally achieve the long-term target of recovering the productivity of land and promoting harmonious and ecological balance and sustainable development of district landscape.
[004] Another patent document CN109652329B discloses a bacillus solid microbial agent, which is prepared by the following steps: step one, culturing functional microorganisms; step two, fermenting the functional microorganisms; step three, preparing a strain spore liquid; step four, preparing the microbial agent. The organic fertilizer is applied to solid microbial fertilizers with functions of disease prevention and growth promotion and solid organic material decomposition agents with high temperature resistance, cellulose resistance and high-efficiency degradation capability. Has the functions of promoting plant growth and activating phosphorus and potassium nutrients in soil, and has the advantages of low cost, convenient transportation and storage, and can effectively reduce the application amount of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
[005] A document CN114195598A discloses a microalgae fertilizer for improving soil fertility and a preparation method and application thereof, belonging to the technical field of soil improvement. The invention provides a microalgae fertilizer capable of improving soil fertility, which comprises the following components in parts by weight: 50-80 parts of blue algae, 40-70 parts of green algae, 10-30 parts of biological bacteria, 5-20 parts of rhododendron dauricum and 10-20 parts of straws, wherein the green algae is prepared from the following raw materials in parts by weight of 1: 2: 1, chlamydomonas trachomatis, chlorella pyrenoidosa and ulva pertusa. The microalgae fertilizer disclosed by the invention can obviously improve the soil fertility, improve the crop yield and quality, and simultaneously has the effect of reducing the heavy metal pollution of soil.
[006] Another document CN111903272A relates to a safe and efficient orchard soil improvement method, which specifically comprises the following steps: radish is interplanted in the open space between fruit trees in the orchard once in spring and autumn every year, when the radish grows to bolt or blossom, plants are cut off or cut off on the ground, the stem and leaf of the radish naturally decay in the orchard, the underground root tuber of the radish naturally decays in the soil, and the improved soil can be obtained by continuously interplanting the radish in the orchard for 2-3 years. The method saves a large amount of cost, reduces the use of chemical fertilizers, improves the soil fertility, optimizes the ecological environment of the orchard and provides technical support for producing green fruits.
[007] A patent document CN112961012A discloses a preparation method of a microbial drip irrigation fertilizer, which comprises the steps of inoculating bacillus subtilis and kitchen waste bacteria into a bacillus subtilis culture medium and a kitchen waste bacteria culture medium for activated culture, adding the bacillus subtilis culture medium and the kitchen waste bacteria culture medium for enlarged culture, and finally adding the bacillus subtilis culture medium and the kitchen waste bacteria culture medium into a prepared fertilizer for secondary fermentation culture to obtain a fertilizer finished product.
[008] None of these above patents, however alone or in combination, disclose the present invention. The invention consists of certain novel features and a combination of parts hereinafter fully described, illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and particularly pointed out in the appended claims, it being understood that various changes in the details may be made without departing from the spirit, or sacrificing any of the advantages of the present invention.

Summary of the invention:
[009] This invention presents a sustainable method to enhance the growth, yield, and quality of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.), specifically the Moroccan Red variety, through the integrated application of micronutrients and organic manures. By combining essential micronutrients such as zinc, boron, iron, and copper with organic amendments like vermicompost, poultry manure, and farmyard manure, the method addresses the plant's specific nutritional needs while improving soil health and fertility. The balanced nutrient application promotes vigorous plant growth, enhances fruit development, and improves fruit quality in terms of size, sweetness, and marketability. This eco-friendly approach minimizes the use of synthetic fertilizers, reduces environmental impact, and fosters sustainable agricultural practices, offering a cost-effective and efficient solution for Dragon Fruit farmers seeking to maximize productivity and profitability.

Detailed description of the invention with accompanying drawings:
[010] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the invention, there is illustrated in the accompanying drawing a preferred embodiment thereof, from an inspection of which, when considered in connection with the following description, the invention, its preparation, and many of its advantages should be readily understood and appreciated.
[011] The principal object of the invention is to develop application of micro nutrients and organic manures on plant growth of dragon fruit c.v. Moroccan red. The detailed description of this invention outlines a sustainable and effective approach for improving the growth, yield, and quality of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.), particularly the Moroccan Red variety, by integrating micronutrient application with organic manures. The method addresses specific nutritional requirements of Dragon Fruit while enhancing soil health and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
1. Micronutrient Formulation
The invention utilizes a scientifically balanced mix of essential micronutrients crucial for the physiological and biochemical functions of the plant:
Zinc (Zn): Promotes growth hormone production and internode elongation.
Iron (Fe): Essential for chlorophyll synthesis and photosynthesis.
Manganese (Mn): Facilitates nitrogen metabolism and enzymatic processes.
Boron (B): Critical for cell wall formation, reproductive growth, and fruit set.
Copper (Cu): Aids in lignin synthesis and disease resistance.
The micronutrients are applied in precise ratios, with foliar sprays being the primary method for rapid absorption during critical growth stages. For example, a foliar spray of Boron (1%) and Zinc (0.5%) has shown optimal results in enhancing plant growth and fruit development.
2. Organic Manures
The use of organic manures enriches the soil with nutrients, organic matter, and beneficial microorganisms, improving soil structure, fertility, and moisture retention. This invention emphasizes:
Vermicompost (75%) and Farmyard Manure (25%): Found most effective in promoting root development and plant survivability.
Poultry Manure: Provides a slow-release source of macronutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus.
Compost and Biochar: Enhance soil aeration, reduce compaction, and support microbial activity.
3. Application Techniques
Micronutrient Application: Foliar sprays are applied during critical stages like vegetative growth, flowering, and fruiting, ensuring efficient nutrient uptake.
Organic Manure Application: Incorporated into the soil during preparation and as a top dressing during the growing season. The quantity and timing are determined based on soil tests and plant requirements to avoid over- or under-application.
4. Benefits for Plant Growth and Fruit Quality
The integration of micronutrients and organic manures leads to:
Vigorous vegetative growth and robust root development.
Enhanced flowering and fruit set, resulting in higher yields.
Improved fruit quality, including better size, color, sweetness, and shelf life, making the produce more marketable.
5. Environmental and Economic Impact
This approach reduces the dependency on chemical fertilizers, mitigating soil and water pollution while enhancing long-term soil health. It also promotes carbon sequestration and biodiversity in the soil. Economically, the method is cost-effective, utilizing locally available organic resources and increasing profitability through better yield and fruit quality.
This invention provides a comprehensive, sustainable solution for cultivating the Moroccan Red variety of Dragon Fruit. By addressing both plant and soil needs.
[012] Without further elaboration, the foregoing will so fully illustrate my invention, that others may, by applying current of future knowledge, readily adapt the same for use under various conditions of service. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Advantages over the prior art
[013] Application of micro nutrients and organic manures on plant growth of dragon fruit c.v. Moroccan red proposed by the present invention has the following advantages over the prior art:
1. Enhanced Plant Growth and Yield
Promotes vigorous vegetative growth, better flowering, and higher fruit set.
Increases overall fruit yield, contributing to greater productivity and profitability.
2. Improved Fruit Quality
Enhances fruit size, coloration, sweetness, and shelf life, making the produce more attractive and marketable.
Results in higher nutritional value and better flavor of the fruit.
3. Sustainable Agricultural Practices
Reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers, minimizing soil and water pollution.
Improves soil fertility and structure by increasing organic matter content.
Supports beneficial microbial activity, fostering a healthy soil ecosystem.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
Utilizes locally available organic materials, reducing the need for expensive synthetic inputs.
Offers a long-term, sustainable solution that lowers input costs over time.

5. Environmental Benefits
Promotes carbon sequestration in the soil, contributing to climate change mitigation.
Reduces environmental degradation by preventing nutrient leaching and contamination.
6. Resistance to Stress
Improves plant resilience against environmental stressors, pests, and diseases, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
7. Holistic Approach
Addresses both macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies, ensuring a balanced nutrient supply.
Integrates organic and inorganic inputs for optimal plant health and soil sustainability.
[014] In the preceding specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof. It will be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims that follow. The specification and drawings are accordingly to be regarded in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense. Therefore, the aim in the appended claims is to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. The matter set forth in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings is offered by way of illustration only and not as a limitation. The actual scope of the invention is intended to be defined in the following claims when viewed in their proper perspective based on the prior art.



, Claims:We claim:
1. Application of micro nutrients and organic manures on plant growth of dragon fruit c.v. Moroccan red comprising the steps of:
- Applying a balanced formulation of micronutrients including zinc (Zn), boron (B), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu);
- Incorporating organic manures such as vermicompost, poultry manure, and farmyard manure into the soil; and
- Using foliar and soil application techniques to deliver the nutrients effectively, wherein the integration of micronutrients and organic manures optimizes plant growth, improves soil health, and enhances fruit quality.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the micronutrient formulation comprises boron at 1% and zinc at 0.5% applied as a foliar spray during critical growth stages of the plant.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the organic manure comprises vermicompost (75%) and farmyard manure (25%) applied as a soil amendment during the planting and growing season.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the incorporation of organic manures enhances soil structure, increases water retention capacity, and promotes beneficial microbial activity.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the application of micronutrients and organic manures results in improved root development, internode elongation, and chlorophyll synthesis, leading to vigorous vegetative growth.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the combined application increases the flowering rate, fruit set, and overall yield of Dragon Fruit plants by 20-30% compared to conventional practices.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the fruits produced exhibit improved size, coloration, sweetness, and shelf life due to the balanced nutrient supply.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the reduction in chemical fertilizer usage minimizes soil and water pollution, contributing to environmental sustainability.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the use of locally available organic materials and reduced reliance on synthetic inputs results in cost-effective cultivation practices.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the plants exhibit increased resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental stressors due to improved plant vigor and nutrient balance.

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