EFFECT OF SELENIUM SPRAYING ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF THREE BROCCOLI HYBRIDS (Brassica Oleracea Var.Italica) AND ITS CONTENT OF ACTIVE COMPOUNDS

Abstract

The research was conducted throughout autumn 2023–2024 at Kalar Horticulture Station in Sulaymaniyah Governorate. The purpose of this study was to examine how different doses of selenium supplementation affected the growth and yield of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica). The research examined selenium foliar application effects on the vegetative development and crop yield and chemical makeup of three broccoli hybrids as researchers sought to find the best selenium application amount for upgrading glucosinolate and antioxidant compounds. The research examined selenium biofortification methods for enhancing broccoli nutrition together with its yield potential through investigations of Se uptake variability in different broccoli varieties. The research discovered the best selenium intake level to improve crop productivity while improving nutritional quality thus supporting food security and human health. Two factors acted as major elements in this research investigation. The results demonstrated that foliar application of selenium, particularly at 10 mg L⁻¹, significantly improved vegetative growth, nutrient accumulation, and yield in broccoli hybrids. Among the hybrids, Wisdom exhibited superior growth traits, including the highest number of leaves and nutrient accumulation, while Hapa achieved the highest total yield at this selenium concentration. These findings highlight the potential of selenium supplementation in enhancing broccoli production. Further research is recommended to compare the performance of Wisdom with newly introduced hybrids to optimize broccoli cultivation practices.