Nitrogen fertilization of strawberries: N_min, leaf dry matter, and leaf sap analyses as control methods

Abstract

In a three‐year survey several control methods of nitrogen (N) supply in strawberry were investigated. It was found that N_min analysis could be used as a measurement of control from the beginning of the season, indicating the need of additional N supply. Leaf dry matter analysis, taken during flowering, could be used as an indicator thus making it possible to make corrections within the season, if needed. When leaf dry matter analysis was compared to leaf sap analysis, correlations were evident for the majority of nutrients, N being an important exception. It was concluded that the use of N_min‐ and leaf dry matter analyses combined might make corrections in N fertilization within the same year possible.