Yield and chemical composition of Cichorium spinosum L. in relation to nitrogen rate
Artigo de Conferência
Visão geral
Visão geral
resumo
In the present study, the effect of nitrogen (N) application rate on plant growth and quality of Cichorium
spinosum L. was examined. Four nitrogen rates were applied, namely: a) Control (no added N), b) 200 mg L-1
of total N, c) 400 mg L-1 of total N, and d) 600 mg L-1 of total N. Plant growth (rosette diameter, number of
leaves, SPAD index, and fresh and dry weight) and chemical composition of leaves (sugars, organic and fatty
acids, tocopherols, minerals and nitrates content) were recorded. Fresh weight increased up to 400 mg L-1,
whereas dry weight was not affected by N rate. Plants treated with N formed larger rosettes and more leaves
comparing to control treatment, except for the rate of 600 mg L-1 where number of leaves did not differ from
control. SPAD index was higher at the rate of 600 mg L-1. The application of N resulted in higher content of
sugars, whereas tocopherols showed a significant decrease. In conclusion, the application of nitrogen rates
up to 400 mg L-1 is suggested for high yields without compromising the quality of the final product.
