Effect of different leaf fertilizer and mycorriza applications on water stress effect in strawberries

This thesis investigated the effects of different fertilization treatments and water restriction on plant development, yield, and quality parameters in strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa). The study was conducted under controlled conditions, and applications of mycorrhizal fungi, NPK (20.20.20), humic fulvic acid, and Ca foliar fertilizer were comparatively evaluated. Plants were also exposed to 100%, 75%, and 50% irrigation levels to investigate the physiological and agronomic effects of water stress. The findings indicate that irrigation stress has direct negative effects on vegetative growth, yield, and fruit quality in strawberry plants. In particular, photosynthetic activity was reduced under 50% irrigation, nutrient uptake was restricted, and fruit formation was delayed. In contrast, the application of mycorrhizal fertilizers mitigated the negative effects of water stress, improving plant root structure, increasing nutrient and water uptake, and significantly minimizing yield losses. Humic fulvic acid applications, however, stood out in quality parameters. SÇKM achieved high values in criteria such as fruit firmness and diameter, providing advantages particularly in terms of marketability. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that irrigation stress is a critical limiting factor in strawberry production, but this effect can be controlled with appropriate fertilization strategies. The use of biological fertilizers such as mycorrhiza, Ca foliar fertilizer, and humic fulvic acid not only increases water use efficiency but also maintains product quality, contributing to sustainable production.