Mineral element composition of cabbage as affected by soil type and phosphorus and zinc fertilisation

Abstract

Background and aims: The effects of phosphorus and zinc applications on phosphorus and zinc concentrations in plants grown in different soil types have rarely been investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different soil types and phosphorus and zinc addition on growth and mineral element composition of red cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L. cv. Red Drumhead). Methods: Plants were grown for six weeks in three different soils (a freely drained Cambisol, an imperfectly drained Cambisol, and a Stagnosol) in a glasshouse. Each soil was amended with one of 25 combinations of phosphorus and zinc fertiliser. Soil characteristics, growth, and mineral element concentrations in shoots were assessed. Results: Soil type significantly affected shoot growth and concentrations of phosphorus, zinc, potassium, calcium, magnesium and manganese, but not iron concentration of red cabbage. Across soils, the observed responses were attributed to soil phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulphur concentrations, organic matter content, and mineral composition, mainly kaolinite and plagioclase. Conclusions: Soil type effects on mineral element composition of red cabbage could have important implications for increasing mineral element concentration in crops to alleviate mineral element deficiencies in human diets.