Chemometric optimization of total nitrogen gain from molybdenum levels in fenugreek ( Trigonella foenum graecum L.)

This study was conducted to determine the optimum molybdenum (Mo) dose, which plays a decisive role in achieving the highest total nitrogen gain in fenugreek. The experiment was conducted in pots under greenhouse conditions using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four replications. Seven different Mo doses (0.05, 0.10, 0.20, 0.40, 0.80, 1.60, and 3.20 ppm) were applied to fenugreek plants, excluding the control. Before application, seeds were inoculated with Rhizobium meliloti bacteria. At the end of the study, plant height, stem fresh weight, stem dry weight, root fresh weight, and root dry weight in fenugreek were determined. Additionally, root and stem nitrogen ratios in the plant, soil nitrogen ratio, and total nitrogen gain were determined. The relationships between all these parameters were interpreted using chemometric methods. Chemometric methods have been frequently employed in recent years to visualize, analyze, compare, and interpret complex, multivariate datasets from agricultural studies. The study found that the optimum Mo dose had a significant effect on all parameters. Correlation analysis revealed positive relationships among many parameters in fenugreek. Furthermore, chemometric analyses indicated that Mo doses of 0.8 and 1.6 ppm were prominent for many parameters. The regression analysis suggested a Mo dose of 1.45 ppm, which resulted in the highest total nitrogen gain for fenugreek cultivation. The study findings clearly demonstrated the positive effects of Mo application on total nitrogen gain in fenugreek.