The effect of nitrogen fertilization and anti-fungal plant protection on sugar beet yielding

Abstract

Sugar beet yielding and, thus, the profitability of its cultivation depends on various conditions. These are mainly a dose of nitrogen fertilizing and anti-fungal plant protection. Based on the research carried out in a private-owned farm in Biała commune, Opole province, Poland, it was observed that the most important factors influencing plant development and root yield of sugar beets (var. Kassandra and Cortina) were genetic features of the investigated varieties and fungal control. They increased considerably root yield and sugar content. The doubled nitrogen dose from 90 to 180 kg N/ha enhanced a slight, statistically insignificant, root yield increase and a lower sugar content in beet roots. The three-year research showed that weather conditions during the vegetation period had a decisive effect on sugar beet plants development and fungal infestation. The variety Cortina was characterized with a significantly higher yield and a higher content of treacle forming compounds in the roots. The increase of N rate from 90 to 180 kg N/ha caused a significant increase of average root mass, leaves and dry matter yield and potassium and N-NH<sub>2</sub> in roots, but it also lowered sugar content. In the years with favorable conditions for fungal infestation, the use of fungicides helped to obtain a higher leaf/root ratio, higher root mass, higher root and leaf yield and higher dry matter and sugar yields. However, it did not have an effect on the content of chemical compounds producing treacle in sugar beet roots.