Effect of potassium foliar spraying and sheep manure application on soil nutrient availability and growth of pomegranate seedlings (Punica granatum L. var. Selimi)

Proper management of soil nutrients is crucial for optimizing plant growth and fruit production. This study investigates the impact of potassium foliar spraying and sheep manure application on available nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) levels in soil, as well as the growth performance of pomegranate (Punica granatum L. var. Selimi) seedlings. Treatments included four potassium spray levels (0, 10, 20, and 30 g/L) and four sheep manure application rates (0, 6, 12, and 18 t/ha). Results showed that foliar spraying with 20 g/L potassium significantly enhanced soil nutrient availability (N: 68.40 mg/kg, P: 13.35 mg/kg, K: 22.35 mg/kg). This treatment also improved seedling growth, yielding the tallest main stem (106.60 cm), the highest number of leaves (321.73), the largest leaf area (1540.23 cm²), and the greatest chlorophyll content (43.30 SPAD). Additionally, the combination of 20 g/L potassium with 18 t/ha sheep manure resulted in the highest overall plant growth metrics. These findings suggest that integrating potassium foliar sprays with organic fertilization enhances soil nutrient availability and promotes vigorous growth in pomegranate seedlings.