Growth Responses of Moringa Oleifera to N, P, and K Levels of Fertilization.

Moringa oleifera is a multiuse tree species adapted to tropical and subtropical regions. Because of its high value and wide applications as vegetable, herbal medicine, oil, and forage, more growers are interested in production. Despite the fast growth characteristics, the effect of fertilization on biomass production at local levels is not well understood. The objective of this study was to test the growth responses of Moringa to different levels of N, P, and K under the climate of south China. Plant materials were developed from seeds. The seedlings were transplanted to pots at one plant per pot in May 2016. The fertilization program was based on N:P:K at 2:1:1 at N levels of 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 g/plant. The N fertilizer was applied monthly during June, July, and August, while the P and K was mixed in the potting soil at transplanting in June 2016. The growth responses were evaluated based on the plant height, stem diameter, and biomass. The N nutrient levels in shoot and root in response to fertilization rates were modeled using regression analysis. P and K levels at 1.5 g/plant was sufficient for the growing season, while N at 1 g/plant per month resulted in maximum growth and biomass production.