SJIF Impact Factor (2025): 8.688| ISI I.F. Value: 1.241| Journal DOI: 10.36713/epra2016 ISSN: 2455-7838(Online) EPRA International Journal of Research and Development (IJRD) Volume: 10 | Issue: 9 | September 2025 - Peer Reviewed Journal 2025 EPRA IJRD | Journal DOI: https://doi.org/10.36713/epra2016 | https://eprajournals.com/ |96 | EFFECT OF CHABAZITIC ZEOLITE APPLICATION ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF STRAWBERRY (Fragaria × ananassa) UNDER CONTROLLED CONDITIONS Domenico Prisa 1 , Martino Campanile 2 1 CREA Research Centre for Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, Council for Agricultural Research and Economics, Via dei Fiori 8, 51012 Pescia, PT, Italy 2 CAVE PIANDIRENA S.R.L in via Eschilo,190,00125 Roma 1 Corresponding Author Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.36713/epra24085 DOI No: 10.36713/epra24085 ABSTRACT This study investigates the use of chabazitic zeolite as a soil amendment to enhance the growth and yield of Fragaria × ananassa (strawberry). Recognized for its high cation-exchange capacity and excellent water retention properties, chabazitic zeolite was incorporated into sandy loam soil at four concentrations: 0% (control), 2.5%, 5%, and 10% w/w. Over a 90-day period in a greenhouse, growth metrics including plant height, leaf number, chlorophyll content, and fruit production were evaluated. Additionally, soil moisture levels and macronutrient availability (N, P, K) were monitored. Results demonstrated significant improvements in plant height, foliage development, chlorophyll content, and fruit yield at the 5% zeolite level. Compared to the control, this treatment increased fruit yield by 32%, improved leaf count by 25%, and enhanced chlorophyll content by 15%. Soil analysis revealed improved moisture retention and higher nutrient concentrations in the rhizosphere, promoting better nutrient uptake. However, a decline in plant performance at the 10% level suggests that excessive zeolite may reduce soil porosity, hindering root development and gas exchange. These findings highlight the potential of chabazitic zeolite to improve water and nutrient use efficiency in strawberry cultivation. Specifically, a 5% amendment was identified as the most effective dose for optimizing plant physiological performance and maximizing yield. This approach supports sustainable agriculture practices by reducing reliance on irrigation and fertilizers, and could be particularly beneficial in regions facing water scarcity and soil degradation. KEY-WORDS: Soil Conditioner; Cation-Exchange Capacity; Sustainable Horticulture; Strawberry Growth; Chabazite INTRODUCTION Strawberries are increasingly recognized not only for their economic value as a high-return horticultural crop but also for their nutritional profile, being rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. As consumer demand for healthier food continues to grow, so does the global market for strawberries, particularly in regions facing environmental constraints such as limited arable land and water resources [1]. To meet these challenges, maximizing yield per unit of input has become critical. Expanding cultivation into suboptimal soils or marginal climates has heightened the need for soil management strategies that enhance productivity while preserving environmental quality. Due to their shallow root systems and high nutrient demands, strawberries are particularly sensitive to fluctuations in soil moisture and fertility. Poor soil conditions can reduce water availability, limit nutrient uptake, and ultimately decrease yield and fruit quality. These vulnerabilities have drawn attention to the importance of optimizing the rhizosphere environment through amendments that improve soil structure and resource retention [1,2]. Among various candidates, zeolites have gained considerable interest. These naturally occurring aluminosilicate minerals are noted for their high cation-exchange capacity, microporous structure, and ability to adsorb and gradually release both water and nutrients [3], thereby reducing leaching and enhancing plant availability [3,4]. In particular, chabazitic zeolite stands out due to its structural stability, cost-effectiveness, and efficacy in improving soil's physical and chemical characteristics [5]. The inherent physiological characteristics of strawberries, including their shallow root systems and high nutrient demands, make them highly responsive to soil management strategies [6]. An issue that has drawn increasing research attention in the context of precision agriculture and climate resilience [7]. Consequently, research is increasingly focusing on materials that can enhance the rhizosphere environment to support better root growth, nutrient uptake, and water-use efficiency.