Hung Nguyen Thanh1*, Tra Mai Huong2, Thu Tran Thi Anh3, Thanh Pham4
1Faculty of Biotechnology, Ho Chi Minh City Open University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
2Lac Hong University, Dong Nai City, Vietnam
3Thu Dau Mot University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
4Faculty of Biology, University of Education, Hue University, Hue City, Vietnam
*Corresponding author’s email: hung.ngt@ou.edu.vn
Received: 19 September 2025 / Revised: 05 November 2025 / Accepted: 12 November 2025 / Published Online: 20 November 2025
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different selenium (Se) fertilization methods on yield, quality, and organic Se accumulation in pak choi (Brassica rapa L.). A two-year small field experiment (2024–2025) was conducted with four treatments: control (CK), soil application (T1), foliar application (T2), and combined soil plus foliar application (T3). Results indicated that Se treatments significantly increased yield by 4.9–17.55%. Se concentration increased by 175.71–305.71% in root and by 202.81–314.08% in stem. Selenomethionine (SeMet) was the dominant organic form while selenocysteine (SeCys) also increased markedly. Crude protein, ash, and micronutrients (Fe, Zn, and Ca) were enhanced, especially under T3. Overall, the combined soil and foliar application (T3) proved most effective for improving yield, nutritional quality, and organic Se accumulation, offering a sustainable strategy for Se biofortification in leafy vegetables.
Keywords: Biofortification, Brassica rapa L., Nutritional quality, Selenium fertilization, Selenium speciation, Soil and foliar application
