Root growth and yield responses to nitrogen levels in bell pepper (<i>Capsicum annuum</i>) cultivation: balancing nutrient efficiency and productivity.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The root system plays a key role in plant nutrient and water uptake, influencing growth, yield, and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). However, excessive N fertilizer is often applied to boost productivity but can instead reduce efficiency and cause nitrate leaching, leading to underground water pollution. Optimizing N fertilization requires an understanding of root system response to nitrogen.

Methods

We examined the effect of different N rates on root growth using in situ minirhizotron (MR) and destructive root study methods (ingrowth core, soil core, and soil excavation). In a net-house experiment, bell peppers (Capsicum annuum) were examined under different N concentrations: 100 ppm (control), 50 ppm (moderate-N), and 25 ppm (low-N).

Results

SUBMITTER: Chemweno S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12456085 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature