Pilot study assessing effects of selected soil factors on the accumulation of hesperidin, nobiletin and tangeretin in pericarps of Citrus reticulata ‘Chachi’

Aims The aim of the study is to know about which soil factors could influence the accumulation of hesperidin , nobiletin and tangeretin in pericarps of Citrus reticulata ‘Chachi’ ( Citrus reticulata cv. Chachiensis). Methods A total of 150 soil samples from 15 profiles and 60 pericarp samples were collected at different orchards cultivated Citrus reticulata ‘Chachi’. The linear regression models, random forest models and structural equation models were established to explore the relationship between soil factors and the three medicinal components. A 2-year field control experiments were designed to verify the direct impact of key elements on hesperidin , nobiletin and tangeretin in pericarps. Results Soil potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), pH, Cation exchange capacity (CEC), Salinity and Sand showed the main influences on hesperidin , nobiletin and tangeretin , in which soil elements, particularly K, Ca, Mg and Mn, were relatively important. Conclusions Adjusting the absorption of elements by Citrus reticulata ‘Chachi’ is one of the effective and convenient methods to increase or decrease the three medicinal components in pericarps.