Beetroot response to sodium chloride as a component of fertilizers

Abstract

Sodium use combined with NPK fertilizers can potentially increase beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) yield and quality. This hypothesis was studied in three field experiments with beetroot in Western Transbaikalia throughout the seasons 2012-2014. The effects of a combination of fertilizers and different Na amounts (10, 20, and 40 kg Na/ha) combined with the chloride on beetroot yield, storage root quality, and sugar accumulation were estimated. As a result, Na application increased beetroot yield by 13-22%, as compared to the mineral fertilizers along, and the highest Na dose contributed to the maximum beetroot yield. The rising of the root mean weight was detected. Also, crude protein and vitamin C were increased in beetroots, while crude fibre and nitrates were decreased. Along with increased sodium concentration, potassium amount in dry matter of roots and tops were declined. Both roots and tops were found to have more efficient P and N uptake.