SPINACH GROWTH IN RESPONSE TO NITROGEN FERTILIZATION

Abstract

The study was conducted at the Iärm of BSMRAU. Gazipur during the period or November to December. 2010 to enhance the production of spinach (Bela vulgans cv. 13AR1 spinach I) through the improvement of growth and yield of spinach by optimizing the appropriate levels of nitrogen fertilizer. The experiment was laid out in a Randomi,.ed Complete Block Design (RCI3I)) comprising six treatments with four replicates each. The treatment combinations were T(0 kg N ha"). T1 (50 kgN ha4). 12 (75kg N haj.T(1o0 kg N ha"). ts (125 kg N ha")and T5 (I 50kg N ha") respectively. Amounts of N. P. K and S applied from urea. TSP. MOP and gypsum were 68. 23. 17 and 4 kg ha-', respectively on being calculated by the methods of I3ARC (2008). Obtained data on plant height., leaf number. root-shoot growth and yield encompassing nutrient accumulation both in root and shoot revealed that nitrogen fertilization has a positive effect on the short term growth and yield of spinach. Further relationship found between N. P. K. S. Ca, Mg. Fe and Zn uptake and applied N doses lollowed by the study of highest 13CR (benefit cost ratio) indicated that nitrogen fertilizer applied at the rate of 75 kg N ha" has a better potential for the production of spinach.