Genotypic and environmental variance of macroelements in tubers of coloured potato varieties

Abstract

Coloured-flesh potatoes, rich in nutrients, in particular minerals, are getting more and more popular on the European market. Therefore, the aim of this paper was to determine the influence of genotypic and environmental variance on phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium content in tubers of coloured-flesh potatoes. The results of the study based on a field experiment conducted between 2013-2015 in Central Eastern Poland (49.8333°N; 21.8500°E) on earth based on flysch deposits (mechanical composition: silt loam with slightly acidic pH). It involved a randomised block design and 3 repetitions. The study included 4 potato varieties (Vitelotte, Blue Congo, Red Emmalie, Purple Majesty). Fertilisation remained constant (80 kg N, 35 kg P, 100 kg K and 25 t ha-1 of manure). Potatoes were cultivated according to good agricultural practice. After harvest, tubers were analysed for content of potassium, calcium and magnesium (Atomic Absorption Spectrometry) as well as phosphorus (colorimetry). Statistical evaluation of the results involved an analysis of variance and descriptive statistics. Mineral content in tubers of coloured potato varieties depended on both environmental and genetic factors. One of the most significant environmental factor turned out to be minerals phytoavailability in the earth. The variety containing the most minerals was Purple Majesty, and the least – Vitelotte. Among the macroelements under study, the least fluctuation in potato tubers was demonstrated by magnesium, and the most – by phosphorus. Minerals content in potato tubers under study may be increased by combining genotypes with a naturally higher content of minerals in tubers with the right fertilisation methods in order to achieve the minerals most crucial in diets.