In strawberry production systems, fertilization with boron is one of the most cultural practices employed by producers, however its use incorrectly can compromise the production and quality of fruit. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of applying boron in the soil (0 and 4kg ha-1) combined with spraying in the shoots (0, 240, 480, 720 B and 960g ha-1) on plant, number, production, titratable acidity, soluble solids, pH and pulp firmness of strawberry fruit. The application of 4kg B ha-1 soil resulted in reduced production of root biomass and shoot of strawberry plants. Foliar application of boron increased the number and fruit production with bigger diameter and maximum total production of fruits was obtained with foliar application of 568g B ha-1 during the reproductive period. Both the application of boron in the air and in the soil increased the level of this nutrient leaf, and the leaf content suitable for the second blooming strawberry ranged from 69 to 88mg kg-1. Foliar application of boron increased the firmness of the fruit, but regardless of the form of application of boron decreased the soluble solids content of fruit in strawberry.
Fragaria x ananassa; micronutrient; fertilization; postharvest
