Masters Degrees (Agronomy)

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Browsing Masters Degrees (Agronomy) by Author "Du Randt, Marius Louis"

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    The influence of nutrient solutions on growth, seed production and seed quality of broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica Plenck)
    (Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2011-03) Du Randt, Marius Louis; Langenhoven, P.; Agenbag, G. A.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of AgriSciences. Dept. of Agronomy.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Little is known about the nutrient requirements of broccoli grown for seed production. During 2006 and 2007 broccoli were grown for seed production in sand bags in a net structure, using a drain to waste hydroponic system. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with seven treatments replicated in four blocks. In 2006 seven nutrient solution treatments were tested. The Standard solution based on Steiner’s universal solution was compared with different levels of N, S, K and Ca with regard to the effect on total biomass, nutrient concentration, nutrient assimilation, seed yield and quality. No significant differences in total biomass produced were found. Total dry mass increased by 225% from the mature head stage until harvest of seed. Nutrient concentration in plant samples were not influenced by treatments except where low levels of K and S in nutrient solutions led to significantly lower levels of K and S concentrations. The total assimilation of elements were calculated to determine the effect of the much longer growth period needed for seed production in comparison to normal head production on nutrient requirements. Major elements assimilated ha-1 was: N 173.0 kg, P 35.5 kg, K 348.4 kg, Ca 114.7 kg, Mg 30.5 kg, S 42.2 kg. The seven treatments used during 2007 included three of the treatments which were used in 2006 as well as treatments with foliar sprays containing Ammonium Nitrate and Calcium Metalosate. The standard solution treatment was also used in 2007 to compare results with 2006. Plant analysis done on plants from the standard solution (2006 & 2007) showed similar trends. As the plants developed towards maturity there was a relative increase in concentration in the top plant parts (pods, flowers and stems) for Ca, Mg and S. Contrary, N and P concentration declined. The minor elements, Fe, Mn and B also increased in concentration in the top plant parts at harvest indicating a strong relative flow of these elements to the top plant parts towards maturation. Concentration values of major elements in plant samples were generally different when the two years were compared. Element concentrations in the seed pods were in general higher than in the rest of the plant indicating the pods as a strong sink on the plants. During both years the two best nutrient solutions for yield were the same, namely the Standard solution and Standard - K which contain low levels of K. During 2006 no significant differences in seed quality were found. During 2007 no significant differences were found for seed quality measurements, except for size (of the cotyledons). The results indicate that no special adjustments need to be made to the Standard solution in order to produce good broccoli seed yield of good quality. As substantial differences in nutrient solution composition did not significantly affect the quality of broccoli seed produced. Seed yield was however significantly affected by nutrient solution composition. Key words: Brassica seed, broccoli seed, seed production, broccoli nutrition, hydroponic production, broccoli production, nutrient assimilation.