Nutrients management strategies to improve yield and quality of sugar beet in semi-arid regions

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the yield and quality of sugar beet genotypes (Beta vulgaris L.). Therefore, a field trial was carried out in Peshawar, Pakistan, during the winters in 2012-2013. The field experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design with split plots, having three replications. Fertilizer treatments (control, composted manure Higo Organic Plus at 5t ha(-1), Maxicrop Sea Gold seaweed extract at 5L ha(-1), farm yard manure at 10t ha(-1), inorganic nitrogen-phosphorus (NP) at 90:60 kg ha(-1), NP at 120:90 kg ha(-1) and NP at 150:120kg ha(-1)) were allotted to main plots, while genotypes (Sandrina, Serenada and Kawe Terma) were allotted to the sub-plots. Plots treated with the application of NP at 120:90 kg ha(-1) produced the highest beet yield (76.4t ha(-1)) and sugar yield (11.1t ha(-1)), and had the second highest polarizable sugar content (14.52%) and more economic return (Rs. 553,000 per hectare) as compared to control plots. Sugar beet genotype Serenada had significantly higher beet yield (55.5t ha(-1)) and sugar yield (7.9t ha(-1)) and a higher economic return (Rs. 380,000 per hectare) than the other genotypes. Sugar beet genotype Serenada supplied with NP at 120:90 kg ha(-1)is recommended for the general cultivation in the agro-climatic conditions of Peshawar valley.