Guangxi Zhiwu (Mar 2024)
Effects of different light substrates and fertilization treatments on growth and physiology of potted Prunus mume ‘Gulihong’ seedlings
Abstract
To optimize the growth of Prunus mume ‘Gulihong’ seedlings through informed fertilization strategies, we designed a comprehensive three-factor, three-level orthogonal experiment, utilizing one-year-old ‘Gulihong’ cuttings as the test material. We specifically investigated the impact of light substrate ratios (volume ratios), single fertilization amount, and fertilization frequencies on the growth and physiological characteristics of ‘Gulihong’ seedlings. The quality index (QI) for each treatment was calculated utilizing a seedling quality index formula. Principal component analysis was subsequently performed on individual index, and weight coefficients were computed to elucidate the relationships between variables. The fertilization effect D value was ascertained using a membership function model. The results were as follows: (1) The overall growth of ‘Gulihong’ seedlings was optimal with a pine needle soil∶grass charcoal∶perlite (volume ratio) of 1∶2∶2, outperforming the other two substrate ratios in terms of growth outcomes. (2) In fertilization treatments, the contents of the soluble sugar, soluble protein, chlorophyll, and photosynthetic parameters of ‘Gulihong’ seedlings increased with higher fertilizer application rates. However, some indices plateaued or marginally decreased when the application rate was excessive, underscoring the necessity of balanced fertilization. (3) The nutrient contents in ‘Gulihong’ leaves consistently increased with higher fertilizer application rates, highlighting the direct relationship between fertilization and nutrient uptake. (4) A fertilization frequency of 20 d and a single fertilization amount of 200 mL were conducive to biomass accumulation in ‘Gulihong’ seedlings, promoting overall growth. Considering plant growth index, physiological index, nutrient content, QI, membership model, and principal component analysis results, the recommended light substrate fertilization program for one-year-old ‘Gulihong’ seedlings comprises a nutrient solution with N=420 mg·L-1, P=217 mg·L-1, K=273 mg·L-1, pine needle soil∶grass charcoal∶perlite (volume ratios) =1∶2∶2, a single fertilization amount of 150 mL, and a fertilization frequency of 15 d. This conclusion provides a vital technical support for the light substrate cultivation of ‘Gulihong’, an indispensable theoretical support for further exploration of general formulas suitable for one-year-old P. mume seedlings, and holds significant implications for the scientific fertilization and export of P. mume, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of the industry.
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