Seasonal dynamics of mineral nutrients by walnut tree reproductive organs

The dry weight accumulation per male and female flower as well as the concentration per gram of dry weight and the accumulation of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) were determined in walnut tree (Juglans regia L.) catkins and female flowers at the stage of flower bud and during the flower development. Catkin emergence was accompanied by a very fast hydration of the tissues. After the catkin matured, the fresh and dry weights were reduced. The female flower development period was accompanied by the dry and fresh weight increase. Total N, P, K, Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn concentrations in catkin buds were detected at lower levels, Mg in equal levels, and Ca at higher levels as compared to the nutrient concentrations in young growing leaves. The estimated values of the ratio NCmfb/NCygl were: total N = 0.54, P = 0.83, K = 0.55, Ca = 1.5, Mg = 1.0, Fe = 0.46, Mn = 0.71, Cu = 0.85, and Zn = 0.60. Nutrient concentration in female flower buds was detected in almost equal levels with the exception of total N and Fe. The estimated values of the ratio: NCffb/NCygl were: total N = 0.57, P = 1.1, K = 1.17, Ca = 1.06, Mg = 0.9, Fe = 0.47, Mn = 1.0, Cu = 0.92, and Zn = 0.85. Total N, P, Mn, Co, and Zn accumulations in the catkin were increased during the fast growing phase and decreased after catkin maturing.