OPTIMIZATION OF THE N:P:K RATIO IN THE NUTRIENT MEDIUM OF SOME SOILLESS AROMATIC AND MEDICINAL PLANTS

We have studied the optimization of mineral nutrition of valuable aromatic and medicinal plants of Peppermint and Citric sorghum under soilless conditions.

The optimal ratio of N:P:K is determined by means of methods of “systematic variations” (Homes) and “correlation probe”. These methods enable to arrange the most optimal NPK ratio by performing the minimal variants.

On the basis of the obtained data the mathematical model in the form of regression equations of peppermint and sorghum yield productivity increase is constructed.
The latter provides the highest leaf productivity and essential oil output.
The optimal ratios of N:P:K in the nutrient solution for the peppermint and sorghum highest leaf productivity and essential oil output are 48:20:32 and 50:35:15 atom % correspondingly.
The deviation of the N:P:K ratio in the medium from the internal optimum per 1 atom % decreases the leaf productivity of Pepper mint per 0,69 and sorghum — per 1,9 g/plant.

II WOCMAP Congress Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Part 3: Agricultural Production, Post Harvest Techniques, Biotechnology

S.K. Mairapetyan, A.H. Tadevosyan, S.S. Alexanyan, B.T. Stepanyan

Hydroponics, Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.), Citric Sorghum (Cymbopogon citratus Stapf) nutrient solution, N:P:K ratio

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.1999.502.2