ISHS Acta Horticulturae 708: V International Strawberry Symposium
EFFECT OF K:CA:MG RATIO ON PERFORMANCE OF ´ELSANTA´ STRAWBERRIES GROWN ON PEAT |
| Author: | P. Lieten |
| Keywords: | Fragaria × ananassa, potassium, calcium, magnesium, nutrient solution |
| Abstract:
Short-day strawberry plants (Fragaria × ananassa Duch. 'Elsanta') were grown in containers filled with peat. Six K:Ca:Mg ratios (8:1.5:1, 5:3:1, 2:4.5:1, 5:2:2, 5:1:3 and 5:0:4 mmol/l ) were continuously applied in the nutrient solution, from planting until the end of harvest. During the first cropping cycle the K:Ca:Mg ratio did not affect fruit number, fruit weight nor total yield. However, during the second cropping, Ca application rates lower than 2 mmol/l significantly reduced vegetative development, runner formation, fruit weight, fruit number and total yield. Ca deficient plants showed tip burn, cracking of stolons, and glossy curd formation on the inflorescences, and were characterized by smaller size, a dense cover of achenes, a harder texture, and a higher acidity. With the K:Ca:Mg ratio of 2:4.5:1, 5:3:1 and 5:2:2, fruit number, fruit size and total yield were maximized. A low K supply decreased firmness and the sugar and acid content of the fruit. Strawberries grown at K:Ca:Mg ratios of 5:3:1 and 5:2:2 did not differ in firmness, but the higher Ca:Mg ratio increased titratable acids and sugars. | |
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