Effect of wood ash soil amendment on growth, yield and fruit quality of 'Early swelling' peach trees

Abstract

The combustion of pruning waste generates wood ash, which contains the highest concentration of mineral nutrients and trace elements among biomass sources. This study aimed to analyze the effects of wood ash on the growth parameters, yield, and quality of the peach cultivar 'Early swelling'. Wood ash was applied to the peach trees in their shade every season in early November at rates of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 kg/tree. The findings showed a significant increase in all parameters related to vegetative growth and nutritional condition, such as leaf area, chlorophyll a and b concentrations, and total leaf chemical components (macro and microelements), when wood ash was applied at a rate of 3 kg. Additionally, an evident increase was observed in the number of fruits, alongside increases in yield and various physical parameters, including weight, size, length, diameter, flesh thickness, and fruit firmness. The treatment led to a significant rise in the content of soluble solids, acidity, total sugars, and anthocyanins, while reducing the contents of nitrates and nitrites in the fruits.