Abstract

Given the importance of nitrogen fertilization in the production of tulip (Tulipa gesneriana L.) bulbs and the limited information relative to this crop in Chile, a study was conducted to characterize its growth and nitrogen uptake. Tulips were cultivated outdoors and included two deflorations. Bulbs of the variety negrita, 7-9 cm, were planted. A randomized complete blocks design was used with five treatments: 0, 70, 120, 160 and 200 kg N ha−1 and three replications. Periodically, plants were sampled to analyze their growth and N content. Accumulation of dry matter and N of the entire crop and individual plants were not significantly affected (p>0.05) by nitrogen fertilization, undoubtedly because of the high N supply from the soil. However, bulbs increased N concentration at harvest (p≤0.05) and reached marketable size. Daily growth rates and N uptake by plants and individual organs exhibited similar patterns. Nitrogen fertilization should be divided: in early winter to promote later leaf expansion and then in full spring to cover the period of maximum crop growth and N uptake.