Yield Responses and Nutrient Uptake of Broccoli as Affected by Lime Type and Fertilizer

Abstract

In a 3-year study with broccoli [Brassica oleracea var. botrytis (L.) Mill. cv. Green Comet], NP or NPK fertilizer at rates of 56N-56P-0K, 56N-56P-56K, and 56N-112P-56K (kg·ha-1) were banded in plots to which three types of lime had been applied—calcitic, calcitic with 3% Mg, or dolomitic. Fertilizer and lime controls were included. Previous liming had raised the soil pH from 5.3 to 7.2-7.4. Effects of lime on yields were greatest when no fertilizer was applied. Dolomitic lime was the most effective, increasing total yield by 49%, terminal weight by 54%, and hastening maturity. Fertilizer effects were most evident when no lime had been applied, with all fertilizer treatments increasing total yield, terminal and plant weight, and hastening maturity. Most changes occurred in the 56N-56P-OK treatment. Effects of lime when fertilizer was applied and effects of fertilizer when lime had been applied were less consistent. Lime alone, especially types containing Mg, increased leaf P, which generally followed the-same trend as total yield. Calcitic lime increased leaf Ca and dolomitic lime increased leaf Mg over other lime treatments. Calcitic lime with 3% Mg increased leaf Ca, but not leaf Mg, compared to the check. All lime treatments decreased leaf Mu, B, and Zn. Fertilizer treatments usually increased leaf N and Mn. Phosphorus uptake was increased by either lime or fertilizer application. Regression analysis strongly suggested that P was the element most responsible for yield increases.