The optimization studies of AB mix fertilizers for capsicum frutescens in soilless media using response surface methodology software

The optimization studies of AB mix fertilizers to enhance the growth of Capsicum frutescens have been carried out using response surface methodology software, RSM. All plant samples were prepared using wick fertigation technique at different wick lengths: 17, 19 and 21 cm and fertilizers concentrations: 1.8, 2.2 and 2.6 mS/cm. In this study, central composite design of face centered (k = I) configuration was applied and the quadratic model considers only two parameters i.e.: fertilizers concentrations, X₁ and the wick lengths, X₂. Results showed that X₁ and X₂ gave significant influence on the selected response variables. Statistical analyses explained the coefficient of determination (R² < 0.9915), P-value (< 0.0001), F-value (163.54), and not-significant lack of fit values (> 1.14) supporting the validation of prediction models. AB mix fertilizer optimization condition for Capsicum frutescens has been identified at 2.54 mS/cm of AB fertilizer and 18.15 cm wick length, with the maximum plant height recorded at 38.73 cm.