Nutrient status of the American cranberries Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait. in Latvia
2005
Osvalde, A., University of Latvia, Salaspils (Latvia). Inst. of Biology | Karlsons, A., University of Latvia, Salaspils (Latvia). Inst. of Biology
The industrial cultivation of the American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) in Latvia was started during last decade. These cultivated berries have been noted as a good source of antioxidants, bacterial inhibitors, dietary fibber and vitamin C. A substantial economic value of cranberry production in Latvia could be associated with appropriate cultivation conditions - vast high bog territories, mild climate and unfulfilled market. To realize the full potential of modern high yielding crop, balanced plant nutrition is vitally important. Investigations were done to find out the actual mineral nutrition status of American cranberries in Latvia. About 100 (peat and plant) samples were collected from different cranberry producing sites in Latvia (2001 to 2004). A complex diagnostic method, i.e. plant tissue analysis and soil testing were used to evaluate the cranberry supply with all of the biogenous elements (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Mo, B). The results obtained were compared to a set of standards for nutrient elements developed by Dr. Nollendorfs (Latvia). In general, optimal plant supply with N, K, Ca, Mg, S, Zn and B, insufficient level of P, Fe, Cu, Mo, and increased concentration of Mn were stated in the vast majority of plant samples. Although broad range of element concentrations in peat samples was observed, rather good relationship between soil and plant nutrient levels was found. Based on the present work, it can be concluded that disbalance of plant mineral nutrition could be one of the factors limiting cranberry productivity in Latvia.
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