Phosphorus (P) is a macronutrient essential for plant growth and development, involved in root formation, photosynthesis, and metabolic processes such as energy transfer, cell division and others. Phosphorus leaching is a crucial concern due to nutrient loss and eutrophication of water bodies. This study aimed to evaluate growth performance, yield, and phosphorus uptake efficiency of Snap Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) across three different growth mediums: (1) Quartz Sand, (2) 50% Quartz 50% Soil, and (3) Soil. Additionally, bioavailable orthophosphate content in leachates and the impact of different phosphorus application rates on crop productivity were assessed. Two phosphorus application treatments: (1) a single application of 120 lbs/acre and (2) a split application of 20 lbs/acre applied weekly over a period of six weeks. Leachate samples were collected and analyzed weekly to determine phosphorus availability trends. Growth parameters such as plant height, leaf chlorophyll content, and yield parameters including the number of pods per plant and pod weight were recorded to evaluate crop performance. Phosphorus uptake efficiency was assessed to determine how different growth media and fertilization strategies influence nutrient utilization. Results showed that Quartz retained the least phosphorus, leading to higher orthophosphate concentrations in leachates. The mixed medium of 50% Quartz 50% Soil exhibited intermediate retention, while Soil treatments retained the most phosphorus, resulting in the lowest leachate orthophosphate levels. Overtime, the split application of 20 lbs/acre provided more stable phosphorus availability compared to the single high-dose application, which led to an initial peak followed by a significant decline. Plants under mixed media and split application present the higher crop performance and yield. These findings highlight the role of growth medium composition and fertilization strategy in phosphorus retention and availability. The study suggests that combining appropriate growth media and phosphorus application rates can maximize Snap Bean productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. Further research should explore the interactions of these factors under diverse environmental conditions to develop best practices for phosphorus management and sustainable agriculture.
