The Influence of Nitrogen and Potassium Fertilizer Ratios on Yield and Quality of Pineapple (Ananas Comosus) Merr L. Var. Smooth Cayenne in the Southern Forest-Savanna Ecotone of Ghana.

Abstract

Field trials were sited on soils belonging to the Ultisols family at three sites (Pokuase Agric. Research Station, Parrico and Silwood farms) within the southern forest-savanna ecotone to determine the influence of different N/K20 fertilizer ratios on the yield and quality of pineapple. A split-plot design was used with two (2) P levels on main plots and six (6) N/K20 fertilizer ratios on sub-plots was used. Soil samples were taken from the three (3) sites. Leaf samples of the pineapple crop were also taken at the 6th, 10th, and 12th months for the different stages during the plant growth. From the physical and chemical properties of the soils, it was observed that the soils do not differ in their fertility status. However, from the rainfall distribution, Parrico and Silwood sites were observed to be wetter than Pokuase. Except for significant treatment effects (P< 0.05) on leaf per cent K at Pokuase and per cent Ca and N at Parrico, there was no other significant treatment effect. There was, however, a general increment in the concerntrations of leaf K, N, Ca and Mg and decrease in the concerntration of leaf P through the growing period. Mean fruit weight at Pokuase was lower than those at Parrico and Silwood. Most of the fruits from Parrico and Silwood were however heavier than the recommended sizes for the export market. Fruits from all sites were of good quality in terms of

acidity and sugar content. Some significant correlations were obtained between leaf nutrient concerntrations at various stages of growth and mean fruit weight, acidity and sugar content of the fruits.