Performance of soilless cucumbers under partially controlled greenhouse environment in relation to deficit fertigation

Abstract

An experimental trial was carried out in a split plot design in three replicates to identify the effect of deficit nutrient supply to soilless cucumbers under partially controlled greenhouse environment. The main plots included three levels of fertigation viz. F1=100%, F2=85% and F3=70%. The subplots included three cucumber cultivars viz. V1 (Kafka), V2 (Multistar) and V3 (PBRK-4). A total 256.1 mm of water was applied throughout the season. A significant decrease in mean yield was noticed with a decrease in fertigation level from 100% to 70%. Yield was also affected by cultivars, where the mean yield under V2 was statistically higher from that under V3. Among interaction, the yield under F1V2 was significantly higher from that under F3V3. The water and nutrient use efficiencies were also statistically in agreement with yield. The nutrient use efficiency of macro and micronutrients were in orders of S>P>Mg>N>Ca>K and Cu≥Mo>Zn>B>Mn>Fe respectively. The effect of deficit nutrient supply was undoubtedly reflected in the yield with a significant decline from highest to lowest fertigation level. Likewise, the yield was significantly affetcted by the greenhouse microclimate which was partilly under control. Thus, for obtaining higher fruit yield, there is a need to raise the fertigation level within optimal range or maintain optimal microclimatic conditions or the both.