Summary
This greenhouse field trial tested a modified nutrient solution formula (NM) that adjusts macronutrient ratios (N/K, K/Ca, NO3−-N/NH4+-N) across four growth stages, compared against a standard Yamasaki formula baseline. Using three substrate types with elevated-grown 'Ssanta' strawberry, the modified formula increased first crop yield by 20% overall and fruit yield per plant by 26% with horticultural substrate, whilst advancing maturity by one week and improving vitamin C content by 34% and sugar-acid ratio by 41%. The authors conclude that stage-specific nutrient management optimises element availability across the strawberry's developmental cycle and enhances economic returns under substrate cultivation.
Regional applicability
This study was conducted in China and specifically addresses substrate-based, elevated-grown strawberry production in greenhouse environments. Whilst the methodology is transferable to United Kingdom glasshouse horticultural systems, the cultivar ('Ssanta'), substrate options, and climate context differ; UK growers would need to validate substrate suitability and nutrient formula adjustments for local cultivars and UK growing conditions. The finding that stage-specific nutrient management improves quality and yield is likely applicable to UK greenhouse strawberry production, though the absolute nutrient ratios may require adjustment.
Key measures
Fruit yield per plant, total crop yield, first crop yield, sugar-acid ratio, vitamin C content (mg/100g), photosynthesis rate, phenological stage timing, substrate pH stability
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated a modified nutrient solution formula adjusted for growth stages against a standard formula, measuring strawberry yield, fruit quality (sugar-acid ratio, vitamin C content), photosynthetic performance, and phenological timing. A 26% increase in fruit yield and significant improvements in fruit quality metrics were reported under the modified formula with horticultural substrate.
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