The Influence of Nitrogen Applications on Leaf Nutrient Content of Dracaena Sanderiana Hort

Abstract

Rooted D. sanderiana Hort. cuttings were placed in glazed 5-gal crocks in a 1:1 peatmoss-sand mixture and fertilizer containing 0, 300, 600, 900, 1200, and 2400 lb. of N/acre/year was applied. Leaf samples were collected from the 4th, 5th, and 6th positions in each cutting during harvesting time and analyzed for different nutrients. N, P, and K contents were not markedly affected during the first harvest period. The N content increased markedly during the second leaf sampling. At the same time both P and K decreased. Ca and Mg contents were not affected significantly as applied N increased, but Fe decreased from the 300- to the 900-lb level of application. Beyond this level, there was a substantial increase in Fe content.