Studies on fertilization of dill (Anethum graveolens L.) and basil (Ocimum basilicum L.): I Herb yield of dill and basil affected by fertilization

Authors

• S. Hälvä Dept. of Horticulture, University of Helsinki, SF-00710 Helsinki, Finland
• L. Puukka Dept. of Horticulture, University of Helsinki, SF-00710 Helsinki, Finland

DOI: https://doi.org/10.23986/afsci.72240

Abstract

Fertilization of dill and basil was studied in 1984 and 1985 in Helsinki, both basic fertilization and N top-dressing being included. The total N doses were 0, 0.15, 0.3, 0.4, 0.8, 1.2 and 1.6 kg N/100 m2 for dill and 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1.2 and 1.6 kg N/100 m2 for basil. The optimum basic fertilization for dill and basil was a compound fertilizer of the rate (NPK) of 0.4—0.16—0.68 kg/100 m2. In one year basil received a benefit from N top-dressing corresponding to total application of 0.8 kg N/100 m2. Estimating the yield by the amount of N fertilizer indicated that dill yield would increase up to the fertilizing rate of 1.15 and basil yield up to 1.0 (in 1985) or 1.50 (in 1984) kg N/100 m2 after which the herb yields will decrease. The dry matter content of dill decreased and the nitrate concentration of both dill and basil increased as the fertilization increased. Basil was severely damaged by fungus diseases, the more fertilization was applied.