Optimizing Primary Nutrient Requirements in Vegetable Cultivation using Response Surface Methodology for Lead Contaminated Soils

Abstract

The present study investigated the effect of lead (II) in soil on the growth rate and the morphology of four vegetables, such as spinach, lettuce, carrots, and potatoes. Results showed that carrots and potatoes could not grow in lead-contaminated soil at 1200 and 1000 mg/kg, respectively, whereas lettuce and spinach could grow even at 1500 mg/kg lead concentration. The amount of lead decreased in roots with order of carrots > potatoes > spinach > lettuce > stems and leaves of spinach > carrots > potatoes > lettuce. The results showed that N-K-application increased lead amount in biomass of these vegetables, whereas P-fertilizer and agricultural lime reduced the lead accumulation. These obtained results support farmers in the cultivation and soil improvement, leading to enhance soil health, food safety and quality.