Mineral Nutrient Requirements of Cucumber Seedlings

Abstract

Mineral nutrient requirements for maximum growth rate of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) seedlings are estimated on the basis of three criteria. 1. The optimal weight proportions among the nutrients present in the seedlings. In relation to N = 100, close to 75 K, 13 P, 9 Ca, and 9 Mg are required. 2. The optimal ratio between the nitrogen sources NH₄ and NO₃ in the solution. The best growth is recorded with about equivalent amounts. Nitrate alone is also highly productive. Cucumber prefers nitrate and is sensitive to high ammonium concentrations. 3. The optimal total concentration in the solution corresponds to 200 to 300 milligrams of nitrogen per liter, with the proportions of the nutrients according to criterion 1. Simple growth methods are suggested in which the three criteria are fulfilled.