Summary: This study investigated the impact of planting time and seed coating with a microbial consortium (including arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and Trichoderma atroviride) on the mineral composition, antioxidant activity, total phenolics, and specific polyphenol content of two artichoke cultivars, ‘Romolo’ and ‘Istar’. The research aimed to determine how these factors influenced the nutritional and nutraceutical properties of the artichokes.
The study provides valuable insights for artichoke growers, highlighting the importance of cultivar selection, planting time, and seed treatment in enhancing the nutritional and nutraceutical properties of the crop. ‘Romolo’ emerged as a superior cultivar in terms of mineral content and polyphenol accumulation, particularly when planted in September and treated with a seed coating of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and Trichoderma atroviride. These findings can guide growers in adopting agronomical practices that maximize both yield and the health benefits of artichokes.
Publication: Food Chemistry
