The effect of applied nitrogen on the growth and nutrient concentration of Kalonji (Nigella sativa)

Abstract

Growth and nutrient accumulation in Kalonji (Nigella sativa L.) under varying levels of nitrogen, were examined in a field experiment. Sixty-three-day-old plants were supplied with varying levels of nitrogen of 0, 30, 60 and 90 kg N/ha soil. Maximum biomass and seed yield were recorded at 30 and 60 kg N/ha. The soil nitrogen level, 90 kg/ha, proved to be ineffective in promoting growth of Kalonji. Accumulation of nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus in both shoots and roots of Kalonj increased consistently with increase in soil nitrogen. However, this pattern of increase in the levels of 3 nutrients in plant tissues had a negative association with the growth of the crop, particularly at the supra-optimal nitrogen levels (60 and 90 kg N/ha).