Trials in Peru on asparagus nutrition: results and analysis

Nutrient balance and crop yield

Trial: Evaluation of three fertigation formulas on yield
Location: Ica, Peru
Date: December 2001

The trial evaluated the effect of three soluble NPK mixtures applied via fertigation on asparagus yield. The highest yields were obtained with formulas that included products from the Ultrasol® line, highlighting the importance of a proper balance of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) in crop nutrition.

Evolution of Macronutrients in the Foliage

During the growing season, nutrient uptake by the foliage showed the following patterns:
N, P, and K: Uptake of these elements showed a sustained increase from the beginning of the cycle to the third flush, with a slight decrease in the fourth. These changes were relatively moderate, as the crop received constant nutrition.
Ca (Calcium): Its uptake was slightly higher in the first three flushes, but increased significantly in the fourth flush. This behavior is associated with its low mobility in the plant and late accumulation in the tissues.
Mg (Magnesium): Maintained a stable pattern throughout the entire season.
Source: (J. Sánchez, 2000)

Evolution of Dry Matter

In general terms, the dry matter of the foliage did not vary greatly during the cycle. However, an increase was observed in the second flush, followed by a progressive decrease in the third and fourth flushes, close to harvest time.
As for dry matter in storage roots, a continuous increase was recorded throughout the cycle, reaching the highest levels in the fourth flush. This indicates a greater accumulation of carbohydrates in the roots.
The increases, although moderate, confirm an additive accumulation of reserves in each new generation of flushes.