EFFECT OF LONG-TERM PHOSPHORUS FERTILIZATION ON THE MINERAL COMPOSITION OF ORIENTAL TOBACCO

R. Bozhinova

Abstract: The effects of the different phosphorus rates (0; 75 and 225 kg ha–1) on tobacco yield and concentration of macro- and micronutrients in leaves have been studied in a stationary field trial. A long-term fertilizer experiment with continuous tobacco cropping system was established on rendzina soil (Rendzic Leptosol) in 1966. Phosphorus was identified as a factor limiting cured leaf yield in continuous tobacco cropping system, established on a soil with low available P. With the increase of phosphorus fertilization rate the content of the phosphorus and calcium in leaves also increased. Zinc concentration was significantly greater in the lower and middle leaves that received no supplemental P fertilizer compared with those plots that did. Copper content of the leaves decreased with increase of phosphorus fertilizing level from 0 to 75 kg ha–1. Fertilization whit 75 kg P2O5 ha–1 should be considered as optimal for producing high yield of sun-cured leaves.

Keywords: macronutrients; micronutrients; phosphorus fertilization; tobacco

Date published: 2017-09-01