Some effects of different soils on composition and growth of sugar beet

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Abstract
Plants from plots with different soil type and with and without nitrogenous fertiliser were harvested at 2–4 weekly intervals during 1960 and 1961 and analysed for N, P, K and Na.The uptake and distribution of the elements are discussed in relation to the yields obtained on the different soils. The effect of nutrients on yield was exercised to a large extent through leaf area duration. The yield of different centres and years was closely related to N‐supply as measured by N‐uptake.The silty loam had a high nutrient status, including a sodium level equivalent to 3 cwt. of salt/acre/year, while the oolitic limestone soil had limited K and P availability. On the clay‐with‐flints, in 1960, potassium was a limiting factor, while in 1961 nitrogen was limiting. Nitrogen application was found to limit availability of P to roots.Losses, particularly of Na and K from roots, were found towards the end of the growth period, and may be important in relation to juice purity, particularly if they can be encouraged by cultural practice.