Skip to main content Skip to search Skip to main navigation

Nitrate and potassium guide for growing white cabbage

White cabbage is a high-demand leafy crop that requires balanced nitrate (NO₃⁻) and potassium (K⁺) nutrition for optimal yield, quality, and storability. Real-time measurement of these nutrients in fresh plant sap provides immediate insights into nutrient uptake and plant health—allowing for in-season fertilization adjustments and better crop management.

Horiba LAQUAtwin NO3 11 tester front view, compact pocket size with display, digital LCD with backlight, ion-selective nitrate measuring device, robust housing for field analysis, photographed at an angle, protective cover on and electrode visible
Horiba LAQUAtwin Potassium Ion (K⁺) Tester with 2 Calibration Points and Temperature Measurement (K-11) Sensor Cap On, Sensor Visible, Display On Showing Measurement.

Nitrate Spotlight

Role of Nitrate in Cabbage Production

  • Supports leaf expansion, protein synthesis, and chlorophyll formation.
  • Promotes vigorous vegetative growth needed for large, dense heads.
  • Deficiency results in stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and poor head development.

Causes of Nitrate Deficiency

  1. Leaching from heavy rainfall or irrigation—common in sandy soils.
  2. Inadequate nitrogen applications or poor timing.
  3. Cold soil temperatures slowing nitrification.
  4. Imbalanced soil pH, reducing nitrogen uptake efficiency.
  5. High crop nitrogen demand, especially in rapid growth stages.

Potassium Spotlight

Role of Potassium in Cabbage Production

  • Enhances cell turgor, keeping leaves firm and crisp.
  • Regulates water balance and stomatal function.
  • Improves stress tolerance, disease resistance, and post-harvest quality.

Causes of Potassium Deficiency

  1. Low soil K reserves or leaching.
  2. Competition with calcium or magnesium affecting uptake.
  3. Inadequate in-season potassium supply.
  4. High nitrogen-to-potassium imbalance

Sap analysis using the LAQUAtwin ion meters:

A Practical Tool for In-Field Nutrient Diagnosis.

Modern crop management relies on real-time insights to guide nutrient strategies throughout the growing season. Traditional laboratory testing, while accurate, often takes several days to deliver results—limiting a grower's ability to make timely adjustments.

The HORIBA LAQUAtwin Nitrate (NO3-11) and Potassium (K-11) Ion Meters provide a rapid, on-site alternative, enabling cabbage growers to check the nutrient uptake status of their plants in minutes, directly in the field, greenhouse, or packing shed.

Why Measure Sap Nutrients?

Nutrient levels in fresh plant sap reflect what the plant is actually absorbing and transporting, offering a more accurate picture of nutrient uptake compared to soil-only tests. This method helps detect hidden deficiencies before visible symptoms appear and supports precision management throughout the crop cycle.

Measurement in Fresh Plant Sap Using LAQUAtwin Meters

The LAQUAtwin Nitrate and Potassium Ion Meters allow for fast, accurate nutrient checks using just a few drops of cabbage leaf sap.

Sampling & Measurement Protocol

  1. Collect leaf samples
    • Select 20–30 mature outer leaves from randomly selected plants across the field. This ensures that the results are representative of the entire crop.
    • Avoid damaged or discolored leaves.
  2. Extract sap
    • Roll the leaves and place them in a garlic press or manual sap extractor.
    • Squeeze enough sap to apply several drops on the sensor.
  3. Calibrate your meter
    • Before measuring, calibrate the meter using the 150 ppm and 2000 ppm standard solutions provided in the kit. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for best accuracy.
  4. Measurement
    • Apply sap drops to fully cover the sensor on the LAQUAtwin meter.
    • Wait for the stabilization indicator before recording the reading, displayed in ppm NO₃⁻ (nitrate) or NO₃-N (nitrate-nitrogen) and ppm K⁺ (potassium ion).
  5. Clean the sensor
    • After each measurement, rinse the sensor with clean water and gently blot dry to prevent contamination between samples.
  6. Repeat and Record
    • Conduct 2–3 additional measurements using different leaf samples to confirm consistency.
    • Log all readings with date, time, and growth stage for future comparison.

Note: Avoid direct sunlight or high heat. Bring samples indoors and allow them to reach room temperature before testing to avoid measurement drift.

Interpreting Sap results for Cabbage

It's essential to interpret readings based on the growth stage and target ranges. For cabbage, nutrient requirements shift as the crop matures, typically declining toward harvest as the plant transitions from leaf expansion to head filling.

Growth stage Nitrate-N (NO₃⁻ N) ppm Potassium (K⁺) ppm
Early leaf expansion 800-1200 2500-3500
Head initiation (cupping) 600-900 3000-4000
Head filling & Maturation 400-700 3500-4500

Note: Local conditions, varieties, and market requirements may influence these targets. Consult with agronomists or extension services for region-specific recommendations.


Best practices for Nitrate and Potassium Management in white Cabbage

  • Split Fertilizer Applications: Apply nitrogen and potassium in multiple stages based on sap data and crop demand.
  • Soil Health Management: Integrate organic matter and cover crops to improve nutrient cycling and soil structure.
  • Water Management: Prevent nutrient leaching by managing irrigation schedules based on soil type and weather conditions.
  • Regular Sap Monitoring: Check nutrient levels weekly or bi-weekly to stay ahead of nutrient imbalances.
  • Complement with Soil and Tissue Tests: Use sap analysis alongside traditional lab tests for a comprehensive nutrient management plan.

LAQUAtwin: the only meters with flat sensor technology.

HORIBA’s highly-sensitive, flat sensor technology opens up new possibilities for sampling and sample types. Only a small amount of sample is required, so you can easily sample in situ without the need for beakers or other labware. Sensors are easily replaced as required.

Calibrate and measure at the touch of a button — the smiley face will tell you when the result can be read.

Hassle-free automatic calibration with a few drops of standard solution reassures you of your measurement accuracy. Two-point calibration is also possible.*
*Except for B-711

LAQUAtwin is fully waterproof and dustproof.

The meter and sensor are fully waterproof* and dustproof, so you can take it anywhere.
* IP67 rated. Will withstand immersion for 30 minutes at 1 m. Not suitable for underwater use.

Carry case comes as standard for handy portability.

The compact carry case contains everything you need for your measurements, including the standard solution and sampling sheets.

Skip product gallery

Matching products

Horiba LAQUAtwin Potassium Ion (K⁺) Tester with 2 Calibration Points and Temperature Measurement (K-11) Sensor Cap On, Sensor Visible, Display On Showing Measurement.
Horiba LAQUAtwin Potassium Ion (K+) Tester with 2 calibration points and temperature measurement (K-11)
Product number: 895658
Measuring range: 4 to 9900 ppm (mg/L) - (0.1 to 250 mmol/L) | 2 to 5000 kg/10a (soil/water ratio 1:5) | 0 to 50.0 ºC | Measurement parameters: Potassium Ion | Temperature

Precise Potassium Ion Measurement on the Go – Mobile, Reliable, and Easy Precise potassium ion measurement with 2-point calibration and integrated temperature display The Horiba K-11 Potassium Pocket Tester was designed to determine potassium in a wide variety of samples with high precision. Thanks to the ion-selective electrode and the digital LCD screen with backlight, the tester is perfect for mobile water quality and environmental analyses. The minimal sample volume of only 0.3 ml (0.05 ml with sampling sheet) ensures reliable results even with small sample sizes. With its 2-point calibration and automatic standard recognition, the device can be flexibly adapted to different measurement conditions. The IP67 rating for dust and water protection, along with a long battery life of up to approximately 400 hours, makes the tester highly reliable for mobile use. Technical Features for Reproducible Potassium Measurements The potassium tester covers a wide measurement range from 4 to 9,900 ppm (mg/L) and additionally displays temperatures up to 50 °C with a resolution of 0.1 °C. The integrated temperature compensation ensures stable results even under changing environmental conditions. Automatic standard recognition, adjustable calibration values, and multiplication compensation guarantee high reproducibility across different sample types. This makes the K-11 suitable for both routine and demanding analytical tasks. Why Potassium Measurement Is Important – Ideal with the Horiba K-11 Hand Tester Potassium is an essential parameter in water, environmental, agricultural, and food analysis. In water bodies, potassium content affects water quality, in soils it is a key nutrient for healthy plant growth, and in food it plays an important role for nutrition and labeling requirements. A mobile potassium hand tester enables rapid on-site analysis without time-consuming laboratory testing. Changes can be detected immediately, and decisions can be made right away. The Horiba K-11 combines this flexibility with high measurement accuracy and ease of use – ideal for fieldwork, routine checks, and scientific studies. Where Can It Be Used? Environmental Monitoring: The K-11 is a fast and precise measurement tool for environmental technicians and scientists monitoring potassium concentrations in water bodies to ensure water quality and identify contamination sources. Agriculture: The K-11 allows farmers and agronomists to measure potassium in soil. This is crucial for fertilizer application and improving plant growth. Easy evaluation of soil extracts enables precise nutrient requirement determination. Food Industry: The tester is used by quality assurance personnel to check potassium content in beverages and food. These measurements are important for product development, health assessments, and compliance with nutritional labeling requirements. Teaching, Research, and Development: By deepening the understanding of potassium’s role in biological and chemical processes, the K-11 serves researchers and educators as a useful tool for experimental studies and educational purposes. Frequently asked questions How long is the warranty period for HORIBA pocket testers? The warranty period is two years from delivery for commercial customers. How many measurements can be taken before the sensor needs to be replaced? This varies depending on the application, use and storage of the Horiba tester. As a rule, the sensor should be replaced after one year. How long is the warranty period for replacement sensors for pocket testers? The warranty period is 12 months after delivery for commercial customers. How do you clean the pocket tester? The pocket tester can be rinsed under water. We recommend cleaning with DI water (deionised). Tissue paper is recommended for drying after cleaning. How can the pocket tester be reset to factory settings? (e.g. in the event of an incorrect measurement result) This information can be found in the operating instructions. These can be found in the download area of the shop and on the product. Is calibration necessary before each measurement? Basically, yes. Further information can be found in the operating instructions.

€385.00*
Horiba LAQUAtwin NO3 11 tester front view, compact pocket size with display, digital LCD with backlight, ion-selective nitrate measuring device, robust housing for field analysis, photographed at an angle, protective cover on and electrode visible
Horiba LAQUAtwin Nitrate Ion (NO3-) Tester with 2 calibration points and temperature measurement (NO3-11)
Product number: 895659
Measuring range: NO3-: 6 to 9900 ppm (mg/L) - (0.1 to 160 mmol/L) | NO3-N: 1.4 to 2200 ppm (mg/L)| 0 to 50.0 ºC | Measurement parameters: Nitrate Ion | Temperature

Horiba LAQUAtwin Nitrate Ion Tester NO3-11 for Precise On-Site Measurements Handheld tester with 2-point calibration, ideal for water and environmental measurements The Horiba LAQUAtwin Nitrate Ion Tester (NO3-11) is a portable device for direct determination of nitrate ions (NO3) and temperature in liquids and samples. Thanks to the ion-selective electrode and compact design, the tester delivers fast and reliable results. The integrated temperature unit enables temperature-compensated analysis and clearly displays both nitrate and temperature values on the digital LCD display. Mobile Nitrate Ion Tester for Precise On-Site Analyses The integrated temperature measurement enables temperature-compensated analysis and shows both nitrate and temperature values. Only very small sample volumes are required, minimizing sample consumption and increasing efficiency in daily use. The tester can be set up with up to two calibration points, with features such as automatic standard recognition, adjustable calibration values, and multiplication compensation for flexibility. Only minimal sample volumes are needed for each analysis, reducing sample usage and improving efficiency. Why Nitrate Measurement Is Crucial – and a Pocket Tester from Horiba Is Ideal Nitrate measurement plays a central role in agriculture, water management, and environmental monitoring. Elevated nitrate concentrations can affect drinking water quality, stress ecosystems, and contribute to over-fertilization. At the same time, nitrate is an essential nutrient for plants, and targeted control is vital for sustainable agriculture. A mobile nitrate pocket tester enables rapid on-site analysis without time-consuming laboratory tests. This allows early detection of contamination, immediate action, and reliable monitoring of legal limits. The Horiba LAQUAtwin NO3-11 combines this flexibility with high measurement accuracy and easy operation – ideal for routine checks and scientific applications. The tester can be configured with up to two calibration points. Features like automatic standard recognition, adjustable calibration values, and multiplication compensation provide high adaptability to different sample types and measurement conditions. Typical Applications of the Horiba LAQUAtwin Nitrate Ion Tester (NO3-11) Agriculture: To optimize fertilizer use, promote plant growth, and minimize environmental impact, farmers and agronomists use the tester to monitor nitrate levels in soils and irrigation water. Water Quality Management: To maintain nitrate concentrations within safe limits, the NO3-11 is used in water management to check drinking and wastewater quality. Environmental Monitoring: The NO3-11 allows environmental technicians and scientists to quickly analyze nitrate contamination in rivers, lakes, and groundwater, ensuring compliance with environmental standards and identifying pollution sources. Research and Development: The tester is used by scientists in environmental science, hydrology, and soil science to conduct detailed studies of the nitrogen cycle and the effects of nitrates on ecosystems. Frequently asked questions How long is the warranty period for HORIBA pocket testers? The warranty period is two years from delivery for commercial customers. How many measurements can be taken before the sensor needs to be replaced? This varies depending on the application, use and storage of the Horiba tester. As a rule, the sensor should be replaced after one year. How long is the warranty period for replacement sensors for pocket testers? The warranty period is 12 months after delivery for commercial customers. How do you clean the pocket tester? The pocket tester can be rinsed under water. We recommend cleaning with DI water (deionised). Tissue paper is recommended for drying after cleaning. How can the pocket tester be reset to factory settings? (e.g. in the event of an incorrect measurement result) This information can be found in the operating instructions. These can be found in the download area of the shop and on the product. Is calibration necessary before each measurement? Basically, yes. Further information can be found in the operating instructions.

€385.00*
Tip
Horiba 4M LAQUAtwin Kit with Sodium, Potassium, Nitrate and Calcium Ion Tester
Horiba 4M LAQUAtwin Kit with Sodium, Potassium, Nitrate and Calcium Ion Tester
Product number: 895690
Measuring range: see technical data | Measurement parameters: Sodium ions | Potassium ions | Nitrate ions | Calcium ions | Temperature

Mobile Analysis Laboratory for Ion Measurements – Versatile Use Compact kit for simultaneous determination of multiple water and environmental parameters The Horiba 4M LAQUAtwin Kit is a mobile laboratory that allows you to determine important ion parameters directly on-site. The case contains pocket testers for measuring sodium, potassium, nitrate, and calcium, as well as for temperature measurement. Each device uses ion-selective electrodes for targeted analysis of small samples and provides fast, reliable results. In addition to the four measurement devices, the kit includes calibration solutions and a wash/spray bottle for sensor cleaning. The sensors can be stored dry without special storage solutions. Compact Multi-Parameter Kit for Flexible On-Site Analyses The set is designed for measurement tasks where multiple ions need to be detected simultaneously, for example when monitoring drinking and process water, performing environmental checks of water bodies, conducting aquaculture analyses, or agricultural research. Thanks to the case, all essential testers including accessories are always on hand and ready for immediate use. The measurement results are available in a short time and are reliable and reproducible – ideal for routine and control measurements in the field. All components are neatly arranged in the case and ready for use at any time. An additional advantage is that the sensors can be stored dry without special storage solutions. Due to its compact design, the kit is particularly suitable for mobile applications where multiple ion parameters need to be determined quickly one after the other or in parallel. Why Multi-Parameter Ion Measurements Are Useful – and a Mobile Kit Is Ideal In many applications, not just a single measurement is important, but the interaction of multiple ion parameters. Sodium, potassium, nitrate, and calcium together influence water quality, biological processes, plant growth, and technical operations. Single measurements in a laboratory are often time-consuming and inflexible. A mobile analysis kit allows simultaneous detection of multiple parameters directly on-site. This allows relationships to be recognized more quickly, decisions to be made more reliably, and measurement campaigns to be carried out more efficiently. The Horiba 4M LAQUAtwin Kit combines these advantages in a compact, user-friendly system. Frequently asked questions How long is the warranty period for HORIBA pocket testers? The warranty period is two years from delivery for commercial customers. How many measurements can be taken before the sensor needs to be replaced? This varies depending on the application, use and storage of the Horiba tester. As a rule, the sensor should be replaced after one year. How long is the warranty period for replacement sensors for pocket testers? The warranty period is 12 months after delivery for commercial customers. How do you clean the pocket tester? The pocket tester can be rinsed under water. We recommend cleaning with DI water (deionised). Tissue paper is recommended for drying after cleaning. How can the pocket tester be reset to factory settings? (e.g. in the event of an incorrect measurement result) This information can be found in the operating instructions. These can be found in the download area of the shop and on the product. Is calibration necessary before each measurement? Basically, yes. Further information can be found in the operating instructions.

€1,545.00*
Tip
Horiba LAQUAtwin NO3 11C case open, accessories organised: measuring device, pipettes, beakers, sample bottle, standard solution, plant press and user manual
Horiba LAQUAtwin Nitrate Ion (NO3-) Tester for crops, in carrying case with 5 Pipettes, Crop sample press, 3 cups
Product number: 895688
Measuring range: NO3-: 6 to 9900 ppm (mg/L) - (0.1 to 160 mmol/L) | NO3-N: 1.4 to 2200 ppm (mg/L)| 0 to 50.0 ºC | Measurement parameters: Nitrate Ion | Temperature

Precise Nitrate Tester for Plants – Mobile NO₃⁻ Analysis On-Site Horiba Nitrate Ion Pocket Tester Kit for fast and accurate on-site results The Horiba LAQUAtwin Nitrate Ion Hand Tester (NO3-11C) in its practical analysis kit is your mobile laboratory for reliable determination of nitrate ions and temperature in plant sap samples. With a wide measurement range of 6 to 9900 ppm NO₃⁻ and automatic temperature compensation, the device provides fast and accurate results. The ion-selective electrode ensures precise NO₃⁻ measurements, while the digital backlit display allows quick and easy reading of values. Mobile nitrate analysis kit for plants, water, and environmental monitoring The kit contains the handheld tester, five pipettes, three measuring cups, a plant sample press, standard solutions, and sampling sheets. This setup allows for rapid and reproducible analysis of plant sap without the need for additional laboratory equipment. The device is dust- and waterproof, features automatic standard recognition, Auto-Stabil and Auto-Hold functions, and has a long battery life, making it ideal for mobile use in the field, greenhouse, or laboratory. Why nitrate measurement in plants is important – and why a mobile kit is ideal Nitrate content in plants is a key indicator of nutrient supply, plant growth, and agricultural product quality. Excessively high or low nitrate levels can negatively impact yield, plant quality, and environmental compatibility. A mobile nitrate hand tester allows direct analysis of plant sap on-site, without time-consuming laboratory procedures. Fertilization and irrigation measures can be precisely adjusted, and over- or under-supply can be detected early. The Horiba LAQUAtwin NO3-11C provides a precise, fast, and practical solution for this purpose. Typical applications for the Horiba Nitrate Analysis Kit Aquaculture and coral monitoring Aquaristics Horticulture Beverage and food production Laboratories and schools Environmental monitoring Water treatment Water conditioning Frequently asked questions How long is the warranty period for HORIBA pocket testers? The warranty period is two years from delivery for commercial customers. How many measurements can be taken before the sensor needs to be replaced? This varies depending on the application, use and storage of the Horiba tester. As a rule, the sensor should be replaced after one year. How long is the warranty period for replacement sensors for pocket testers? The warranty period is 12 months after delivery for commercial customers. How do you clean the pocket tester? The pocket tester can be rinsed under water. We recommend cleaning with DI water (deionised). Tissue paper is recommended for drying after cleaning. How can the pocket tester be reset to factory settings? (e.g. in the event of an incorrect measurement result) This information can be found in the operating instructions. These can be found in the download area of the shop and on the product. Is calibration necessary before each measurement? Basically, yes. Further information can be found in the operating instructions.

€485.00*
Tip
Horiba LAQUAtwin Nitrate Ion (NO3-) Tester for soil in carrying case with 5 Pipettes, 3 bottles (100 mL), 2 sampling spoons, tweezers, sampling sheet B, 2 Sampling sheet holders
Horiba LAQUAtwin Nitrate Ion (NO3-) Tester for soil in carrying case with 5 Pipettes, 3 bottles (100 mL), 2 sampling spoons, tweezers, sampling sheet B, 2 Sampling sheet holders
Product number: 895689
Measuring range: NO3-: 6 to 9900 ppm (mg/L) - (0.1 to 160 mmol/L) | NO3-N: 1.4 to 2200 ppm (mg/L)| 0 to 50.0 ºC | Measurement parameters: Nitrate Ion | Temperature

The LAQUAtwin Nitrate Ion Handheld Tester (NO3-11C) included in the analysis kit is pre-set by the factory to the relevant calibration points 30PPM and 300PPM for soil analysis. Manufacturer Part No. 3200689164  | B-742

€530.00*
Horiba LAQUAtwin S030 potassium exchange sensor, compact design, K+ marking visible
Horiba LAQUAtwin S030 Potassium Ion Replacement Sensor for K-11 tester
Product number: 895663
Measurement parameters: Potassium | Temperature

Manufacturer Part Nr. 3200459868

€207.00*
LAQUAtwin S040 sensor for NO3-11, clear view of the sensor surface and connector tab
Horiba LAQUAtwin S040 Nitrate Ion Replacement Sensor for NO3-11 tester
Product number: 895664
Measurement parameters: Nitrate | Temperature

HORIBA Nitrate Replacement Sensor (S040) for Pocket Testers NO3-11, NO3-11C and NO3-11SThe HORIBA LAQUAtwin Pocket Tester series allows water quality parameters to be measured quickly and accurately on site. To ensure that these measurements are reliable and accurate, it is very important to check the sensors regularly and replace them with replacement sensors if necessary. These replacement sensors have been specially developed for the HORIBA LAQUAtwin series and offer a wide range of variants for different measurements: pH value, conductivity, salinity, redox (ORP) and ion-selective sensors for sodium, potassium, nitrate, calcium and fluoride. Each of these sensors has been designed with the aim of maximising user-friendliness and accuracy, for which HORIBA is known worldwide in the field of water quality testing. The advantages of HORIBA replacement sensors are: Easy replacement: It is easy to replace the sensors, allowing measurements to be resumed quickly. Highest accuracy: The replacement sensors ensure that the measurement results are precise and reliable.Wide range of measurements: Different types of sensors are available for different water quality parameters.Durability: The sensors are designed to have a long service life even under challenging conditions. Instructions for replacing the sensor: To ensure that your HORIBA LAQUAtwin Pocket Tester is durable and accurate, please follow these steps when replacing the sensor:Remove the sensor Switch off the measuring device. Lift the tip of the sensor. Then slide the sensor slightly away from the measuring device. Remove the sensor completely from the measuring device (by pulling).Attaching the sensor  Switch off the measuring device. Make sure that the water-repellent seal is clean and undamaged. Press the sensor onto the measuring device so that hook ‘A’ on the back of the device fits into hole ‘a’ on the tongue of the sensor.Make sure that the waterproof seal is not twisted. Important:To put the measuring device back into operation for correct measurement, follow the steps in the operating instructions for the corresponding tester after replacement. (Our products include such instructions. In most cases, calibration and, if necessary, conditioning are required.)  Question: How can I check if my sensor is worn out?  Answer: By checking the condition of the sensor as follows:  Perform a 2-point calibration to check the sensor condition. If a calibration error occurs, this suggests that the sensor is deteriorating. The sensor should therefore be replaced.  Regular checks and timely replacement of sensors ensure the high quality and reliability of your water quality measurements using the HORIBA LAQUAtwin Pocket Testers.  Manufacturer item number: 3200459870

€207.00*