Integrating compost and foliar boron nutrition with mineral nitrogen fertilization improves productivity, quality, and nutrient acquisition of sugar beet

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition Research Department - Soil, Water and Environment Research Institute - Agricultural Research Center

2 Department of Soils and Water, Faculty of Agriculture, Damietta University, New Damietta

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.

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History

  • Receive Date: 10 December 2023
  • Revise Date: 05 January 2024
  • Accept Date: 08 January 2024

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