Effect of nano and molecular phosphorus fertilizers on growth and chemical composition of baobab (Adansonia digitata L.)

Objective: This study was carried out to investigate the effectiveness of foliar application of different sources of P on growth performance of Adansonia digitata in Egypt. Materials and Methods: Different sources of P [monoammonium phosphate (MAP), diammonium phosphate (DAP) or hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (nHA)] and unfertilized seedlings (control) were used as a foliar application to study growth parameters and chemical composition of Adansonia digitata grown in a sandy soil during two successive seasons (2014 and 2015). Results: Baobab plants sprayed with nHA showed a significant increase in plant growth characters (plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves per plant, leaf area, root length, total fresh and dry weights) when compared to control plants. Moreover, significant increase in total chlorophyll, carotenoids concentration, total carbohydrates percentage, vitamin C, macro-elements (N, P and K%), crude protein and total phenols content. The anticancer activity of Adansonia digitata leaves against Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma Cells (EACC) and the antioxidant activity of leaves over control plants were recorded in the same treatment. Meanwhile, it had significant reducing power methods. Conclusion: It is recommended to spray with nHA for increasing plant growth, nutrition status, DPPH and anticancer activity besides, their safety for either environment or human health.