Understanding the effects of fertilization on growth, yield, quality, storage stability, and
disease incidence in onion (Allium cepa L.) is very important from the grower’s
perspective. The aim of this assignment was, based on a review of scientific literature,
to analyze the effects of individual macronutrients, especially nitrogen, phosphorus, and
potassium, on the most important production traits of onion. Special attention is given
to the effects of fertilization on nutrient uptake, chemical composition of bulbs, storage
capacity, and the occurrence of diseases during growth and storage. It was found that
nitrogen has the greatest effect on yield, but excessive doses can worsen storage stability,
increase weight loss and rot, and heighten plant susceptibility to diseases, especially
downy mildew. Phosphorus contributes significantly to root system development and
increases dry matter content, while its effect on storage stability is less pronounced.
Potassium improves bulb quality, increases dry matter and soluble solids content, and
reduces weight loss, sprouting, and the occurrence of storage diseases. The literature
review also showed an important effect of irrigation on nutrient use efficiency. Based
on the collected findings, it can be concluded that balanced fertilization, adapted to plant
needs and growing conditions, is crucial for successful onion production, as it enables
high yield, good quality, and appropriate storage stability.
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