Journal of Tropical Crop Science
Vol. 13 No. 02 (2026): Journal of Tropical Crop Science

Interactive Effects of Nano-Iron and Spent Mushroom Extract on Growth and Nutrient Uptake of Citrus trifoliata Rootstock Saplings

Abrar M Almousawi (Department of Horticulture and Landscape, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Kufa, Iraq)
Hawraa Imad Taher (Department of Horticulture and Landscape, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Kufa, Iraq)
Shyamaa S Neamah (Department of Horticulture and Landscape, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Kufa, Iraq)
Nawres Hazim Mohammed (Department of Horticulture and Landscape, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Kufa, Iraq)



Article Info

Publish Date
21 Jun 2026

Abstract

Citrus trifoliata rootstock production is critical for the successful establishment of citrus orchards because sapling vigor strongly influences orchard performance. An experiment was conducted under 50% shade to evaluate two factors: foliar application of nanoiron at three concentrations (0, 10, and 20 mg/L) and an organic amendment, spent mushroom extract (SME), applied via irrigation water at three concentrations (0, 50, and 100 ml/L), on the growth and nutrient status of C. trifoliata saplings. The combined treatment of nanoiron at 20 mg/L plus SME at 100 ml/L increased plant height by 130%, stem diameter by 180%, and branch number per plant by 350% over the control, along with concurrent increases in leaf area, chlorophyll content, and carbohydrate accumulation. Foliar application of nanoiron integrated with SME provides a long-lasting, sustainable nutrient source that markedly improves sapling health and growth. This integrated approach can be considered an effective and practical strategy for enhancing nursery management and supporting sustainable citrus production.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

agro

Publisher

Subject

Agriculture, Biological Sciences & Forestry

Description

Journal of Tropical Crop Science is an international journal publishing research related to tropical crops. Articles in the journal focus on in-vivo and in-vitro production and production environment, breeding, seed technology, physiology, postharvest, pest and pathology of cereals, vegetables, ...