Exploring the Effects of Nitrogen and Potassium on the Aromatic Characteristics of Ginseng Roots Using Non-Targeted Metabolomics Based on GC-MS and Multivariate Analysis

This study investigated individual/combined nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) deficiencies on ginseng root aroma using GC-MS metabolomics. Four treatments (normal supply, N deficiency (LN), K deficiency (LK), and dual deficiency (LNLK)) were analyzed. Deficiencies impaired growth, mineral accumulation, and induced oxidative stress, suppressing ginsenoside biosynthesis. From 1768 detected VOCs, 304 compounds (rOAV ≥ 1) significantly contributed to aroma. LN inhibited terpenoids (e.g., isoborneol) but upregulated sulfur compounds (e.g., di-2-propenyl tetrasulfide), intensifying pungency. LK enhanced sweet/woody notes (e.g., 2'-acetonaphthone) via flavonoid biosynthesis and toluene degradation. LNLK reduced esters (e.g., benzyl acetate) and terpenes, attenuating floral-balsamic nuances by coordinating aromatic degradation, glutathione metabolism, and ABC transporters. N-K nutrition dynamically shapes ginseng aroma by differentially regulating phenylpropanoid, terpenoid, and sulfur pathways, providing a foundation for precision fertilization and quality improvement.