Bokashi, simple superphosphate, and fertigation for the growth and nutrition of hybrid Cattleya (Orchidaceae)

Abstract

Potted flower production is an important floricultural activity. However, there have been few studies on the fertilization management of orchids. Fertigation with urea and potassium chloride is feasible, but little information is available regarding the interaction of these fertilizers with other sources of nutrients. Thus, the present study evaluated the effects of application of bokashi and a simple superphosphate and their interactions with fertigation on the growth and nutrition of hybrid Cattleya. Seedlings of Laeliocattleya Drumbeat × Laeliocattleya Gold Digger hybrid were submitted to two ferti-irrigation levels (absent and present) using urea and potassium chloride as nitrogen and potassium sources, respectively. As complementary fertilization, bokashi and superphosphate were applied singly and in combination. A commercial fertilizer (Peters®) was used as an additional control. Fertigation increased plant height; leaf area; number, length, and diameter of pseudobulbs; dry mass of leaves, pseudobulbs, and roots; and content of chlorophyll, carotenoid, and nitrogen. The application of bokashi resulted in dry mass gain in all plant organs. The combination of fertigation and bokashi was superior to the commercial fertilizer in terms of increased leaf area, chlorophyll A content, carotenoid content, and dry mass.