Zinc oxide nanoparticles and their effect on melon yield and quality

The research consisted of the foliar application of zinc oxide nanoparticles (NPs ZnO), two commercial sources (Z40 and GZ), in addition to a control treatment and their effect on yield and commercial and nutraceutical quality in cv Cruiser melon fruits (Cucumis melo L.). The treatments consisted of the foliar application of five doses of NPs ZnO: 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 mg L. The results indicated that the highest yield was for the treatment with 200 mg L of NPs ZnO, with an increase of 53 t ha in relation to the control, the same trend was for the weight of the fruit that showed values of 1.74 kg, 1.45 kg and 1.33 kg, respectively. Concerning flavonoid content, doses of 50 and 100 mg L exceeded the control treatment and commercial sources; however, as the concentration of NP increased, flavonoids decreased. Phenols, antioxidant capacity (DPPH) and vitamin C decreased by 17, 10. 8 and 9% with the control, respectively. The highest concentration of zinc in pulp was observed with 200 mg L of NPs ZnO. The use of zinc nanoparticles is a good alternative to improve the yield and nutraceutical content and the concentration of Zn in melon fruits, being an option to combat the malnutrition of this micronutrient.