The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth, development, and productivity of Argental asparagus plants cultivated using ridge-free technology under drip irrigation in the conditions of the Left Bank Forest-Steppe of Ukraine, under various mineral nutrition systems.
Within the framework of this research, the effectiveness of different fertilization systems was assessed on an eighth-year asparagus plantation: organic (manure), mineral (NPK fertigation), and combined (manure + microbial preparations + complex fertilizers). After the harvest and vegetation season, soil samples were collected and analyzed in laboratory conditions.
The highest concentrations of nitrate nitrogen, available phosphorus, and exchangeable potassium were recorded in variant D4 (combined fertilization): 122.5 mg/kg NO₃, 1687.5 mg/kg P₂O₅, and 511.0 mg/kg K₂O, which exceeded the control (D1) by 84.8%, 11.9%, and 16.7%, respectively. Mineral fertilization (D3) also demonstrated high effectiveness: 108.1 mg/kg NO₃ (+63%), 1679.1 mg/kg P₂O₅ (+11.4%), and 510.5 mg/kg K₂O (+16.6%) compared to the control. Organic fertilization (D2) resulted in a significant increase only in nitrogen content (+31.4%), while phosphorus and potassium levels remained similar to the control.
Thus, our research established that mineral and combined fertilization systems were the most effective in improving the agrochemical properties of the soil. Their application enhances nutrient availability, which is critically important for the stable growth and development of asparagus plants.
