Effects of Boron Fertilizer on Tomato, Pepper, and Cucumber Yields and Chemical Composition

In many parts of the world, boron (B) levels are insufficient for potential production. Boron deficiency is also widespread in the Anatolia region of Turkey. Boron deficiency could impact production and quality of tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum L.), pepper (Capsicum annum L.), and cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). A two-year greenhouse experiment was conducted to study yield and quality response of three vegetables to B addition (0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 kg B ha-1). The optimum economic B rates (OEBR) were 2.3, 2.6, 2.4 kg B ha-1, resulting in soil B concentrations of 0.33, 0.34 and 0.42 mg kg-1. Independent of plant species, B application decreased tissue nitrogen (N), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) but increased tissue phosphorus (P), potassium (K), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) concentrations. We conclude that a B addition of 2.5 kg ha-1 is sufficient to elevate soil B levels to nondeficient levels. Similar studies with different soils and initial soil-test B levels are needed to conclude if these critical soil test values and OEBR can be applied across the region.