Abstract

PENA BARACALDO, Fernando Javier. EFFECT OF PLANT DENSITY AND HEAVING ON THE PRODUCTION AND QUALITY OF LEEK (Allium ampeloprasum L. var. porrum J. Gay). rev.udcaactual.divulg.cient. [online]. 2015, vol.18, n.1, pp.101-108. ISSN 0123-4226.

Leek and other Liliaceae have traditionally been cultivated in valleys of moderate and cold climates of the Andean regions, near the centers of consumption. The production and consumption of Allium ampeloprasum L. var. porrum J. Gay, has increased due to its seasoning qualities and medical benefits. The implemented production systems for this vegetable have adopted technologies from countries with conditions different than ours. Therefore, in order to optimize the crop and satisfy the internal and external demand related to quality, it is necessary to determine appropriate agronomic practices, purpose of this research. Within a divided plot experimental design, the effect of five plant densities and the influence of heaving on weight, diameter and stem length was evaluated. Results showed that at higher densities, weight and stem diameter were lower, but not affected by heaving, A direct proportional relation was observed for stem length: at mayor density, mayor stem length and vice versa. Big leeks were harvested with distances of 20 x 25cm y 30 x 25cm, which showed also, respectively, the highest mean weights, 354.93g y 354.42g, respectively. At a planting distance of 30cm x 5cm, large and thin leeks, were obtained. According to market criteria heaving is necessary within the production system for stem whitening, however, this practice did not directly influence the production parameters like weight and stem diameter.

Keywords : Liliaceae; stem development; sawing density; stem whitening; quality.

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