EFFECTS OF NITROGEN, PHOSPHORUS, AND POTASSIUM ON RUTABAGA YIELDS

Abstract

The effects of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium on the yield and shape of rutabagas (Brassica napobrassica Mill., cult York) were investigated at three locations each year during three successive cropping seasons. Total and marketable yields were increased at most locations by applications of nitrogen and phosphorus, but applied potassium increased yields at only three locations. For maximum yields, rates of 90–112 kg/ha of N and 49–130 kg/ha of P were necessary. Where soil P levels were low, yield increases from applied N were obtained only when accompanied by adequate phosphorus. The ratio of the equatorial/polar diameters of the roots was increased by added N, and to a lesser extent, by applied P and K.