Summary
This field trial examined how growing media composition and foliar macronutrient (NPK) application influence strawberry crop performance. Peat moss as the primary growth medium, combined with 6–8 ppm foliar NPK applications, consistently produced the best results across vegetative and reproductive parameters, including higher chlorophyll content, fruit number and weight, leaf area, and total soluble solids compared to soil-only or mixed media controls.
Regional applicability
The study does not specify its geographic location and the abstract provides no details on climate or growing conditions that would inform applicability to United Kingdom horticulture. Strawberry cultivation in the UK typically uses raised beds and varied substrates; the relative benefits of peat versus alternatives (peat reduction is a UK policy priority) would require validation in UK commercial conditions.
Key measures
Chlorophyll content (vegetative and reproductive stages), number of fruits, fruit weight, leaf area, total soluble solids (TSS), colour, taste
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated strawberry growth performance across different growing media (soil, peat moss, soil+peat combination) combined with foliar NPK application at varying concentrations (4, 6, 8 ppm). Measured parameters included chlorophyll content, fruit number and weight, leaf area, total soluble solids, colour and taste.
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