THE RADIOLOGICAL IMPACT OF THE USE OF PHOSPHATE FERTILIZERS IN GERMINATION AND GROWTH OF ERUCA SATIVA (ROCKET PLANT)

Various types of phosphate fertilizers could alter the soil's physical and chemical properties, such as pH, electric conductivity (EC), and organic matter, phosphorus, and potassium contents. These changes will subsequently affect plant growth and crop yield. In this study, we have examined the application of three types of commonly used phosphate fertilizers, namely monoammonium phosphate (MAP), diammonium phosphate (DAP), and triple superphosphate (TSP), on the growth and yield of rocket (Eruca sativa Mill) plants. Rocket is frequently consumed as a salad ingredient in many countries, including Saudi Arabia. We have compared the effects of the three types of phosphate fertilizers on soil composition, pH, and electric conductivity, as well as their ultimate effects on rocket plant growth and yield. In addition, GC-MS analysis was used to isolate compounds from the seeds of treated plants using methanol extracts. Various compounds with different concentrations have been detected. Serval unique compounds were also detected in each treatment. Moreover, we measured the radon activity accumulated in the soil due to the use of these fertilizers. Our results indicate that monoammonium phosphate is the best phosphate fertilizer, as it resulted in the highest rocket plant growth and the lowest accumulated radon activity in the soil.

Automated summary

Various types of phosphate fertilizers can affect soil properties and crop growth, but monoammonium phosphate is the most effective fertilizer for rocket plants. This has significant impacts on plant growth and yield.