Calcium foliar fertilization and its effect on quality and shelf life in andean blackberry fruits (Rubus glaucus Benth.)

Calcium is the third most crucial nutrient for andean blackberry; however, its absorption limited in acid soils, and low mobility plant decreases effects on fruits. Therefore, effect of foliar fertilizers with calcium blackberry fruits was estimated. In three locations, experiments were established five sources (Ca chelate, CaB nitrate, Ca oxide, CaBZn gluconate) a control without calcium, applied phenological stages recording: weight, diameters, firmness, color, juice, pulp, pH, soluble solids, acidity, dehydration, damage. Soil tissue analysis performed to identify relationship between plant's nutritional conditions fertilization response. For statistical used mixed models, tests means, principal components. Foliar oxide crops thorns, production, pruning management, flower bud, fruit set, red fruit, viable alternative improve diameter contrast, chemical color parameters depend edaphoclimatic each zone. This should be considered as complement soils acidity problems balanced cationic saturations.