Integrating compost and foliar boron nutrition with mineral nitrogen fertilization improves productivity, quality, and nutrient acquisition of sugar beet
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Adequate and balanced crop nutrition is essential for realizing yield potential of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.). Over-reliance on the mineral nitrogen (N) fertilizers poses environmental risks, while boron (B) deficiency also limits productivity. Field studies were conducted over two seasons to evaluate combinations of mineral N fertilizer, compost, and foliar B nutrition on sugar beet. Treatments included four compost-mineral N ratios (100% recommended nitrogen dose (RND) as urea, 75% RND + 25% RND as compost, 50% RND + 50% RND as compost, and 100% RND as compost) and four foliar B regimes (0, Milano 15%, Borax 11%, and Boric acid 17% B sprays). Integrating compost supplying 25-50% N enhanced root and sugar yields over sole urea, likely by providing balanced nutrition. Foliar B increased yields, with the maximum at Boric acid 17% B indicating sub-optimal crop B status. Boric acid spraying combined with higher mineral N increased yields synergistically. Incorporating compost improves quality parameters like sucrose content and sugar recovery. Foliar B augmented the quality response, benefiting sucrose accumulation and purity through physiological regulation. An integrated nutrient strategy combining compost and foliar B with mineral N is suggested for promoting productivity and quality in sugar beet.
Source: Egyptian Journal of Soil Science
Authors: Ali Seadh, Ahmed Abdelhameed, Ibrahim Mosaad
Language: English
Subfield: Soil Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: bronze
Funder: Damietta University
OpenAlex ID: W4391280279