The Effect of Micronutrients and Manure Fertilizers on the Quantity and Quality of Khorasan Saffron

The effect of zinc and iron micronutrients and manure fertilizers, and also their interaction effects were investigated on the yield and quality of saffron flower. On the basis of data analysis by ANOVA (1383-1384) showed that the effect of animal manure alone obtained the Maximum yield at a rate of 7.35 Kg/ha. The minimum yield was obtained at the M1 Zn1 Fe1 level. The results showed that, since the experimental area soils have relatively high pH and EC, and high bicarbonate values of irrigation water, the soil iron and zinc nutrients can not be absorbed by the plants. Therefore, we have to reduce the soil pH and EC values, and create a balanced condition for the optimum plant nutrient uptake. The quality of saffron (Color, Flavor and Fragrance) was also analyzed by UV spectrophotometer.

Keywords:

Crocus Sativus , iron and zinc fertilizers