Efecto del poliacrilato de potasio con distintos intervalos de riego por goteo sobre la producción de pepino en Machala.

Abstract

The present research was conducted at the Technical University of Machala in the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences with the objective of evaluating the impact of potassium polyacrylate applied with different drip irrigation intervals on cucumber crop production. A completely randomized block factorial experimental design with two factors was employed: the application of hydrogel (with and without) and four irrigation intervals (every 4, 5, 6, and 7 days). This design resulted in a total of 24 experimental units. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that, although the overall model was significant, the individual factors and their interaction did not show statistically significant effects on the variables of fruit weight, length, and diameter. However, there was a trend indicating that the use of hydrogel improved the weight and length of the fruits, especially under less frequent irrigation conditions. This suggests that hydrogel may offer particular benefits in situations of water stress. In terms of Brix degrees, which measure the concentration of sugars in the fruit, significant differences were found based on the use of hydrogel and irrigation frequency. Brix degrees were higher in treatments that included hydrogel and in those with irrigation frequencies of every 4 and 6 days. This finding indicates greater efficiency of hydrogel treatment in improving the sweetness and ripeness of the fruit. Additionally, the quality of production showed significant variations. First-grade fruits were more abundant with an irrigation frequency of every 5 days. On the other hand, the use of hydrogel improved the proportion of second-grade fruits and reduced the number of rejected fruits due to defects. These results are consistent with previous studies that have demonstrated the hydrogel's ability to improve water retention and favor crop growth under water stress conditions. Implementing hydrogel in combination with adequate irrigation intervals can significantly improve the production and quality of cucumbers under water stress conditions. This suggests its potential as an effective tool to mitigate the effects of water stress in horticultural crops. Given the evidence of the benefits of hydrogel in water retention and crop yield improvement, it is recommended to continue with additional research exploring different doses of hydrogel and its application to other crops. These studies will help validate the obtained results and optimize agricultural practices in the Machala region and in areas with similar conditions. The extension of these studies could provide a solid basis for recommending the use of hydrogel as a standard practice to improve the sustainability and efficiency of agriculture in regions prone to water stress.