Effect of Ammonium- and Potassium-Loaded Zeolite on Kale ( Brassica alboglabra) Growth and Soil Property

Abstract

We investigated the feasibility of using ammonium- and potassium-loaded zeolite (NK-Z) as carriers for fertilizer and for slow release of nitrogen (N) and potassium (K). Plant growth response and soil analysis were performed. The results indicated an increase in the total harvest weight of kale (Brassica alboglabra Bailey). Furthermore, higher levels of N and K were detected in soil applied with NK-Z than in soil applied with compound fertilizers. The leaf fresh weight of kale in the fertilizer treatments including NK-Z were 2118.4 and 2111.3 g·plant-1, while the leaf fresh weights of kale in the treatment without NK-Z was 2018.0 g·plant-1. The N and K contents in the soils were maintained in the high level in the NK-Z treatment compared that in control treatment. The results indicate that NK-Z has a great potential as the slow-release fertilizer reducing pollution by preventing leaching to the ground water.