Vegetative Growth, Yield and Leaf Mineral Composition in Strawberry (Fragaria × Ananassa DUCH. CV. Pajaro) as Influenced using Nickel Sulfate and Urea Sprays

Abstract

In this study, interactions of nickel sulfate and urea sprays on vegetative growth, yield and leaf mineral contents in strawberry were investigated. Rooted Pajaro strawberry plants were potted in 3 liter pots filled with soil, leaf mold and sand (1:1:1, v/v/v). Established plants were foliar sprayed with nickel sulfate at 0, 150, 300 and 450 mg L−1 and urea 0 and 2 g L−1 concentrations. Results indicated that nickel (Ni; 300 mg L−1) plus urea (2 g L−1) significantly increased the yield and runner numbers. Nickel sulfate at the rate of 300 and 150 mg L−1and urea (2 g L−1) significantly increased the crown numbers. The greatest root fresh and dry weights were obtained from untreated plants. Urea at 2 g L−1 without nickel significantly increased shoot fresh and dry weights. Nickel at 450 mg L−1 without urea significantly increased Ni concentration in leaves. Overall, nickel sulfate at 150 and 300 mg L−1 along with urea at 2 g L−1 were the best treatments.