EFFECT OF NITROGEN, PHOSPHORUS, POTASSIUM, AND MANURE ON TERMINAL, LATERAL, AND TOTAL YIELDS AND MATURITY OF BROCCOLI

Abstract

A factorial experiment was conducted during three successive cropping seasons to investigate the effects of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and manure on the yield and maturity of broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica Plenck.). Terminal (central inflorescence), lateral (axillary stalk), and total yields were substantially increased by applications of nitrogen and phosphorus. For maximum yields, rates of 175 to 250 kg/ha of N and 100 to 150 kg/ha of P were necessary. Increases in lateral yields and total yields from high rates of nitrogen were obtained only when nitrogen was accompanied by adequate phosphorus. Yields of terminals were increased in only one of three seasons by added potassium. A manure treatment increased lateral and total yields in two seasons, and terminal yields in one season. Maturity was delayed by increasing the rates of nitrogen, and where no phosphorus was applied.