Effects of Nitrogen Fertilization on the Growth, Composition and Yield of Upland and Lowland Taro (Colocasia esculenta)

Abstract

SUMMARYThe effects of nitrogen fertilization on growth, nutrient uptake and yields of upland and lowland taro were studied on the island of Kauai, applying o, 280, 560 and 1120 kg./ha. N. Nitrogen concentrations of upland and lowland taro leaves were significantly correlated with yields, although regression analysis showed that per cent N in both blades and petioles decreased with age. Higher yields were obtained from the lowland than from the upland crop, regardless of amounts of N fertilizer applied. The highest yield obtained from lowland taro was at 1120 kg./ha. N harvested at fifteen months (57·6 tons/ha.) and from upland taro the highest yield was obtained at 560 kg./ha. N harvested also at fifteen months (25·5 tons/ha.).