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Beyond the Law of the Minimum: Unravelling the Stoichiometric Synergy of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium and Iron for Stress-Resilient Bell Pepper Transplants
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Mohammad Etemadi   , Bahare Khoshrooy |
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Abstract: (25 Views) |
High-quality bell pepper seedling production is a critical determinant of final yield potential; however, existing nutritional protocols, often relying on single-factor approaches, have overlooked complex nutrient interactions. This study investigated the morpho-physiological responses of seedlings in a soilless culture system using a four-factor factorial experiment (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, and Iron). Results indicated that biochemical indices exhibited a more significant response to nutrient stoichiometry compared to morphological traits. Catalase enzyme activity, identified as the strongest predictive model, revealed a significant synergistic interaction between Nitrogen and Phosphorus, whereas proline accumulation was primarily influenced by the linear effect of Nitrogen. Furthermore, stem diameter (a vigor index) was governed by the antagonistic interaction between Nitrogen and Iron at high concentrations. These findings challenge the efficacy of "One-Factor-at-a-Time" (OFAT) optimization methods, demonstrating that seedling vigor is determined by specific stoichiometric ratios rather than mere nutrient abundance. This study highlights the critical role of N:P balance in defense mechanisms and N:Fe balance in regulating secondary growth.
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| Keywords: Nutrient Stoichiometry, Bell Pepper, Stress Tolerance, Nutrient Synergy, Iron Nanocolloids. |
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Vegetable crops
Received: 2026/04/22 | Accepted: 2026/08/2 | Published: 2026/08/3
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