Nutritional requirement of pineapple: effect of liming, potassium and nitrogen on yield and quality of fruit

Abstract

In Minas Gerais, Brazil, pineapples are exclusively grown on leached acid soils, and a balanced nutrition is important for the growth and production of this crop. A liming - N-K trial was conducted with the aim of recommending a fertilizer for pineapple cultivation. The levels of K₂O, N and lime were: K₂O kg/ha (0-413-722-1031), N g/plant (0-5-10-15), lime ton/ha (0-2). The design of the trial was a factorial arrangement in split plot with three replications. Liming did not improve the production, but a beneficial effect of liming on K utilization was found. Yield significantly responded to increments of K and N. Addition of K increased the content of acid and brix in the fruit, and N was found to lower the acid content.