Nitrate Accumulation in Vegetables. II. Table Beets Grown in Upland Soils¹

Abstract

abstract Nitrate concentrations in table beet ( Beta vulgaris L .) plant parts were determined for different sources and times of application of N fertilizers to a Honeoye fine sandy loam and a Lima silt loam to determine effects of N fertilization on the concentration of nitrates in the plant parts used for consumption for food. Nitrate concentrations were determined potentiometrically, using a nitrate‐selective ion electrode, on plant samples taken at time intervals after N fertilization and at harvest stage for processing. Nitrate concentrations in table beet roots, leaf blades, and petioles were increased significantly by applications of N fertilizers. Rate of N application was the most significant factor affecting NO 3 accumulation in the plants. Carrier of N was a significant factor only when the N fertilizers were sidedressed shortly before harvest. Sidedressing before harvest with KNO 3 and broadcasting before planting with NH 4 NO 3 and urea gave similar concentrations of NO 3 in the plants. Beet leaves were significantly higher in NO 3 than roots.