Management of nitrogen fertilization to improve the yield of a cucumber cultivar
Keywords:
Nutrient management, nitrogen fertilization, yield, fruit qualityAbstract
Appropriate management of nitrogen fertilization is crucial to optimize yield and fruit quality in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different nitrogen rates on productive and quality variables of the hybrid cucumber Humocaro under field conditions in southern Ecuador. The experiment was established in the Palmales parish, Arenillas canton, El Oro province, using a randomized complete block design with six treatments corresponding to increasing nitrogen rates (0, 25, 50, 75, 100, and 125% of the recommended dose) and four replications. Fruit weight, diameter, and length, commercial quality, and yield were evaluated. The results showed that fruit weight and diameter differed significantly (p < 0.05), with the highest values observed at 100% and 125% of the recommended nitrogen rate. Fruit length did not show statistically significant differences among treatments, whereas commercial quality was significantly higher under greater nitrogen availability, as reflected by a higher proportion of first-grade fruits. Yield reached its maximum values at 100% and 125% nitrogen, although the response to further nitrogen increases was limited. These results demonstrate that applying 100% of the recommended nitrogen rate is the most efficient alternative to improve yield and fruit quality of the hybrid cucumber Humocaro under field conditions.
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