Dynamics of chitosan based NPK-nanofertilizers in greenhouse cucumber production system

Abstract

Aim: To study the effect of NPK-nonofertilizers on growth, reproductive and yield parameters as well as nutrient recovery efficiency in greenhouse cucumber. Methodology: The performance of greenhouse cucumber cultivar KPCH-1 was studied using six treatments namely 100% RDF(90:75:75 kg ha-1) through water soluble fertilizer (WSF), 60% RDF as nanofertilizer, 50% RDF as nanofertilizer, 40% RDF as nanofertilizer, 30% RDF as nanofertilizer and absolute control. Growth, reproductive and yield parameters of greenhouse cucumber as well as nutrient use efficiency were assessed during cropping period. Results: The plants administered with 60% RDF through nano-fertilizer showed12.07%, 11.85% and 15.72% higher increase in leaf area at 30 and 60 DAS as well as at final harvest, respectively, over 100% RDF through WSF. The greenhouse cucumber fertigated with 40% RDF as nanofertilizer recorded maximum number of pickings and number of fruits per vine accounting for maximum increase in marketable yield compared to WSF. The cucumber plants administered with 40% RDF as nano-fertilizers also recorded maximum apparent N, P and K recovery efficiency. Interpretation: Nano-fertilizers have ability of controlled release of desired nutrients at their site of action. Despite of lower concentration, higher yield obtained at 40% nano-NPK fertilizer was associated with high nutrient recovery by nanofertilizers. Key words: Chitosan, Greenhouse cucumber, Nano-fertilizers, Horticultural traits