synergistic Effects of Shading, Integrated Fertilization, and Salicylic Acid Application on Growth, Phytochemical Composition, and Antioxidant Activity of Red Beet (Beta vulgaris L.)

• 1 Aws Jawad Kadhim, 2 Thamer Abdullah Zahwan

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The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of green netting (Saran), fertilization (organic and chemical), and spraying with salicylic acid on the growth and active ingredient content of red beet (Beta vulgaris L.).  The experiment was carried out during the winter season of 2024-2025 in the fields of the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Gardening, College of Agriculture, University of Tikrit, using a completely randomized block design (RCBD) as a factorial experiment with three factors and three replications. The treatments comprised three shading levels (none, one month, two months), three fertilization types (chemical, organic, chemical plus organic), and two salicylic acid concentrations (0 and 50 mg/L). The results showed that all factors and their interactions had a significant effect on the traits studied. The  triple interaction (application of 50 mg/L salicylic acid, organic fertilization, and shade for two months) produced the maximum levels of chlorophyll content, stem diameter, total soluble solids (TSS), Betalain concentration, and antioxidant activity (DPPH), Meanwhile, the lowest values were recorded when these transactions were absent. According to the findings, the utilization of salicylic acid, organic fertilization, and the application of proper shading techniques results in boosted growth, heightened efficiency of physiological processes, and heightened generation of active compounds, all of which have a favorable impact on the quality of the crop.

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