Exploring the Roles of Zeolite and Titanium on physio-anatomical Responses, Nutrient Uptake, and Yield Quality of Potato (Solanum Tuberosum L. Cv. Spunta)

Aligned with UN's 17th sustainable development goal of Zero Hunger, initiatives have focused on adopting innovative and cost-effective practices to boost crop productivity and preserve environment. Field trials were done throughout 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 seasons, to evaluate the role of zeolite (Ze, at 0, 4, 8 ton ha-1) and/or titanium dioxide (Ti at 0, 2.5, 5 mg l-1) on potato plant growth, leaflet anatomy, physio-biochemical attributes, yield, quality, and tuber vitamin B complex. Application of Ze or Ti alone had a significant impact on all characteristics, and their high level (8 ton ha-1 Ze or 5 mg l-1 Ti) was more beneficial than the low-level or untreated plants. Additionally, the tubers had the maximum content of vitamin B complex (nicotinic acid, thiamin, pyridoxine, riboflavin, cobalamin, and folic acid) once treated with 4 ton ha-1 Ze or 5 mg l-1 Ti, over other concentrations or untreated plants. Regarding the interactions, applying Ze (8 ton ha-1) with 5 mg l-1 Ti, had the supreme effect on the studied characters related to plant growth, biochemical attributes, leaflet anatomy, yield, and yield quality, over other combinations and control treatment. Alternatively, the treatment of Ze (4 ton ha-1) plus Ti (5 mg l-1) resulted in the highest levels of vitamin B complex over other treatments or control. For optimal potato yield and quality, it is recommended to add 8 ton ha-1 Ze during soil preparation and foliar spraying with 5 mg l-1 of Ti twice at 40 and 55 days from planting.