EFFECT OF VARIOUS LEVELS OF NPK FERTILIZER APPLICATIONS ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF CUCUMBER (CUCUMIS SATIVUS L.)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of different levels of NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) fertilizer applications on the growth and development of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). The experiment was laid out in a completely randomize design (CRD) with varying NPK treatment levels: 0kg/ha (control), 30kg/ha, 60kg/ha, 90kg/ha and 120 kg/ha, replicated thrice. Key growth parameters such as number of leaves, plant height, stem guard dimensions, chlorophyll content, fruit, fruit diameter, number of roots were monitored, alongside yield attributes like number of fruits per plant, fruit length, and fruit weight. Results indicated that cucumber growth and yield were significantly influenced by the level of NPK applied, with the 20-10-10 kg/ha treatment showing optimal performance in terms of vegetative growth and fruit yield. However, further increases in fertilizer levels showed diminishing returns, suggesting an optimal threshold for NPK application. in sustainable agricultural systems.
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