AGRONOMIC RESPONSE TO CHITOSAN NANOPARTICLES AND QUALITY INDICATORS IN CUCUMBER FRUITS (Cucumis sativus L.)

Abstract

The cultivation of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) has acquired importance in agriculture globally, both for its economic contribution and nutritional value, which generates a sustainable source of income and encourages the diversity of agricultural systems. The use of chitosan in agriculture represents an innovative and sustainable strategy, promoting plant growth, improving soil health and reducing dependence on agrochemicals, thus contributing to safer and more environmentally responsible food production. The objective of this research was to determine the responses of cucumber plants to the application of chitosan nanoparticles. The applied concentrations were 1,000 mg L^-1 (T-1), 1,500 mg L^-1 (T-2), 2,500 mg L^-1 (T-3), and a control (T-4), which were distributed in a random block design with four treatments and three replications. Different plant growth variables were evaluated: stem height and diameter, root length, number of leaves and tendrils, and number of flowers, as well as the production of fresh and dry matter from different plant organs. At the end of the growing cycle, the yield and nutraceutical quality of the fruits were assessed by determining the contents of polyphenols, flavonoids, antioxidant capacity, and total soluble solids in the pulp. Applications of chitosan at different concentrations promoted overall plant growth, although not all variables responded equally. The concentration of 2,500 mg L^-1 increased both yield and nutraceutical quality of the fruits.