Integrated Nutrient Management for Improving Fruit Quality and Soil Health in Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) cv Winter Dawn

Abstract

Strawberry is a widely cultivated and economically important fruit crop valued for its flavour, colour, aroma, and adaptability. It is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, fibre, and antioxidants, making it beneficial for human health and widely used both fresh and in processed products. The present investigation was conducted to evaluate the effect of integrated nutrient management (INM) on fruit quality attributes and soil nutrient status of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.). The experiment consisted of eight nutrient management treatments comprising the recommended dose of fertilisers (RDF) alone and in combination with biofertilizers (Azotobacter and phosphate-solubilising bacteria) and humic acid (2%). The study revealed that integrated application of RDF along with biofertilizers and humic acid significantly improved fruit quality parameters such as total soluble solids (TSS), sugars, and TSS: acidity ratio, while reducing titratable acidity as compared to the control. The highest TSS, TSS:acidity ratio, total sugars, and reducing sugars were recorded under RDF 100% + Azotobacter + PSB + 2% humic acid. Soil chemical properties were also favourably influenced by INM treatments, with improved organic carbon content and enhanced availability of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium after harvest. The combined use of inorganic fertilisers with biofertilizers and humic acid proved superior over the sole application of chemical fertilisers in improving fruit quality and maintaining soil fertility. Thus, integrated nutrient management emerged as a sustainable and effective approach for enhancing strawberry productivity and soil health.