CONCLUSION
The results of this study demonstrate a clear and statistically significant relationship between
irrigation practices, mineral nutrient accumulation, and yield performance in cucumberproduction. High irrigation amounts combined with short intervals (R1I1) significantly enhanced
the uptake of essential macronutrients—particularly potassium, calcium, and magnesium—
leading to higher fruit number, increased average fruit weight, and improved total yield per plot.
Macronutrients had the strongest positive associations with yield components, validating their
central roles in physiological processes such as photosynthesis, carbohydrate translocation,
and cell wall development. Micronutrients, iron and zinc, also contributed positively to yield
formation, albeit to a lesser degree. On the other hand, manganese, copper, and sodium
displayed weaker correlations, indicating either non-limiting levels or diminished roles under
the prevailing soil and water conditions.
The interaction between irrigation amount and frequency significantly influenced both nutrient
composition and yield outcomes, underscoring the need for integrated water-nutrient
management strategies in cucumber cultivation.
BOOK CHAPTERS 9 OCTOBER 2025 Igbojionu, D.O
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