Summary
This field trial evaluated the combined effects of NPK fertilisation rates and pruning methods on two cucumber hybrids (Sina 1 and Sina 2) grown under greenhouse conditions in Egypt over two spring seasons. The Sina 2 cultivar outperformed Sina 1 for yield and fruit quality, whilst single-shoot pruning and 125% of the recommended NPK fertiliser dose produced the highest values for yield, fruit characteristics, mineral content, ascorbic acid, and sugars. The optimal combination was Sina 1 pruned to one branch and fertilised at 125% recommended NPK, which maximised fruit quality metrics and nutrient density.
Regional applicability
The findings may have limited direct applicability to United Kingdom greenhouse horticulture, as the study was conducted in Egypt's Mediterranean climate and used Egyptian cucumber hybrids (Sina cultivars). However, the methodological approach to optimising fertilisation and pruning for nutrient density and yield in controlled environments could inform UK protected cropping systems, particularly regarding the relationship between nitrogen management, mineral accumulation, and vitamin C content in cucumber.
Key measures
Fruit yield, fruit characteristics, nitrogen content, phosphorus content, potassium content, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), total soluble solids (TSS), and total sugars
Outcomes reported
The study measured yield, fruit characteristics (including size and quality metrics), mineral contents (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), ascorbic acid, and total sugars in cucumber fruits under different fertilisation and pruning regimes. Comparisons were made across three NPK fertilisation levels (75%, 100%, 125% of recommended dose), two pruning methods (one or two shoots per plant), and two cucumber F1 hybrids.
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