Abstract
To evaluate the potential of witloof chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) (VI) as a remedy for K accumulated soils, the K absorption ability of VI under nutrient-rich condition were analysed together with forage type chicory and guinea grass (Punicum maximum Jacq.) (GG) by using modelled salt accumulated soils made by excessive application (733 t ha−1 in 2 years total) of Methane Fermentation Digested Slurry (DS) of cow manure for 2 years. Comparing to the first year, the top biomass of VI in the second year was maintained at the same level and that of root were significantly increased (P<0.05) while the plant total biomass of GG was significantly decreased (P<0.05), and no significant differences were observed in plant total biomass of forage type chicory. The K-uptake amount per plant of VI was 37.6% larger than that of GG, and 73.8% larger than that of forage chicory at 5% level of significance. Through forcing culture experiment, influence of excessive DS application for two years was negligible on production of etiolated heads. In conclusion, the witloof chicory can be utilized for K removal from salt accumulated soils concurrently with deriving income through etiolated head production.
