SHORT COMMUNICATION
Concentrations of Heavy Metals and Nitrates
in Eggplant Grown with a Biostimulator
Joanna Majkowska-Gadomska, Artur Dobrowolski,
Emilia Mikulewicz, Anna Francke
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Department of Horticulture, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn
Poland
Submission date: 2016-01-18
Final revision date: 2016-03-07
Acceptance date: 2016-03-07
Publication date: 2016-07-22
Pol. J. Environ. Stud. 2016;25(4):1787-1790
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ABSTRACT
A greenhouse experiment was conducted in 2011-12 to determine the effects of fertilization using an
Asahi SL biostimulator on heavy metal concentrations in two cultivars of eggplants (Solanum melongena
L.) grown in an unheated plastic tunnel in the garden of the Research and Experimental Station of the University
of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn. Eggplants with their high nutritional and biological values plus
popularity, eggplants are an important crop economically. However, due to their temperature requirements,
eggplants are difficult to grow in regions with less favorable climatic conditions. Biostimulants and biopreparations
are applied to protect plants against exogenous stressors, and to promote their healthy growth
and development. Such protective treatments are increasingly applied in the cultivation of thermophilous
vegetables in colder climates. The Asahi SL biostimulator supports the plant’s natural defense mechanisms,
thus alleviating the negative effects of adverse environmental conditions. Under optimal growing conditions
the biostimulator helps crops reach their full genetic potential. The experimental materials comprised
plants of two eggplant cultivars: Black Beauty and Violetta Lunga. Seedlings were grown in line with the
generally observed standards for eggplant cultivation. The heavy metal content of plant material (in fruit)
was determined. The concentrations of heavy metals and nitrates (V) in eggplants grown in an unheated
plastic tunnel did not exceed the maximum permissible levels. The biostimulator exerted varied effects on
the heavy metal and nitrate (V) contents of eggplants, and it increased the accumulation of mercury in the
edible parts of eggplants. A significant increase in the concentrations of cadmium and nitrates (V) was noted
in the cv. Black Beauty control eggplants.