Effect of nitrogen fertilization on yield, storage losses and chemical composition of winter cabbage

Abstract

Increasing rates of field nitrogen (N) application (0, 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 kg N ha −1 ) resulted in markedly higher yields of winter white cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata 'Bartolo') due to larger head size. Glucose and fructose contents increased with increased nitrogen. In contrast, ascorbic acid and sucrose contents declined slightly with increased nitrogen. Nitrogen rate had little effect on storage losses. The results indicated that increased N fertilization provided overall benefit to cabbage production. Key words: Cabbage, nitrogen fertilization, storage losses, yield