NPK Fertilization on Red Ginger Alpinia purpurata (Vieillard) K. Schumann: Effect on Yield and Nutrimental Content of Plants

Fertilization is essential for the successful cultivation of Red Ginger, Alpinia purpurata (Vieillard) K.
Schumann, since this species produces flowers throughout the year. However, there are no specific
rules for fertilizing this tropical cut flower. The aim of the research was to evaluate the effect of NPK
fertilization on Red Ginger yield and nutrient content of mature plants. 16 treatments were defined
from N, P and K combinations, with three replications in complete random blocks. The experimental
unit was one clump with stems. The study was conducted from February 2012 to January 2013 on a
10-years-old commercial plantation. The plantation is located at 18°17’43.49’’ NL and 93°12’28.68’’
WL in Comalcalco, Tabasco, Mexico. Each 15 days along a year were recorded variables for the
clump and for commercial stems and flowers. Then one plant per experimental unit was separated
into flower, leaf, stem and rhizome to analyze NPK. With the data, an analysis of variance, means
comparison (Tukey, P ≤ 0.05), and Pearson correlation were performed. The fertilization doses 216-
00-00 kg NPK ha-1 promoted the thickest and largest flowers and floral stems and the largest leaf, as
well as the highest commercial fresh and dry weights. The highest non-commercial biomass fresh
weight (383.2 g) was produced in plants fertilized with 322-04-90, but this value was statistically equal
to that obtained with the doses 216-00-00 (335.81 g). The NPK content found in Red Ginger leaf,
stem, and flower satisfied the requirements established for P, but not for N and K. The N content in
the stem was similar to that recorded in the rhizome, but low and very low with respect to the N
content recorded in flower and leaf. The N content was the unique nutrient correlated to the yield of
Red Ginger.