Work

Optimization of N-P-K Nutrient Ratios for Three Leafy Vegetables Using Response Surface Methodology and Principal Component Analysis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study determined the optimal nitrogen–phosphorus–potassium (N-P-K) ratios for maximizing growth performance in spinach (Spinacia oleracea), bok choy (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis), and Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa pekinensis). A response surface methodology experiment with 15 N-P-K treatments (0–1.5 g/L per nutrient) was conducted under controlled conditions. Growth parameters including plant height, biomass, leaf area, and root development were measured after four weeks and analyzed using principal component analysis and Pearson correlation analysis. Optimal ratios were species-specific: spinach achieved maximum performance with N-P-K = 2-0-2 (13.15 g fresh weight, 13.88 g total biomass), bok choy with N-P-K = 0-2-2 (2631.31 mm2 leaf area, 4.42 mm stem diameter), and Chinese cabbage with N-P-K = 2-0-2 (14.14 cm height, 9883.44 mm2 leaf area). High nitrogen levels were negatively correlated with root development across all species (r = −0.531 to −0.690, p < 0.05). These findings demonstrate that species-specific nutrient management strategies are essential for optimal leafy vegetable production. Balanced N-P-K ratios prevent nutrient toxicity while maximizing growth, providing evidence-based guidelines for precision fertilization in controlled environment agriculture.

Source: Plants

DOI: 10.3390/plants14233681

Authors: Ruiping Yang, Hao Su, Jiangshan Lai, Yu Sheng, Yu Shen

Institutions: Nanjing Forestry University, Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Environmental Science, Yancheng Teachers University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Bioresources of Saline Soils, Nanjing Agricultural University

Language: English

Topic: Plant Growth and Agriculture Techniques

Subfield: Soil Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258