Soil fertility requirements of root chicory (Cichorium intybus var. sativum): a review |
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| Authors: | D H Gordon J C Hughes A D Manson |
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| Institution: | 1. Soil Science, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Scottsville, South Africa;2. KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa;3. KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dundee Research Station, Dundee, South Africa |
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| Abstract: | AbstractRoot chicory is mainly grown in Belgium and the Netherlands with production also elsewhere in Europe, India, and South Africa. The world’s crop is worth an estimated US$56.04 million. India and South Africa focus on supplying root chicory to the blend coffee industry. Only limited and variable information is available on the fertilizer requirements of root chicory. Most studies on nitrogen (N) report that chicory in cooler, temperate regions requires 40–75?kg?N/ha compared to 200?kg?N/ha in warmer areas. Recommended rates for phosphorus (P) range from 0 to 69?kg?P/ha. Poor responses to potassium (K) are reported with recommended rates from 0 to 190?kg?K/ha. Application rates for sulfur (S) of 10–30?kg?S/ha have been suggested. Suitable micronutrient requirements and soil acid saturation and pH values for root chicory have not been published. To establish crop norms a concerted effort is needed to quantify the fertilizer use of root chicory. |
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| Keywords: | chicory (Cichorium intybus var sativum) fertilizer research macronutrients micronutrients soil acidity |
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