Certainly! Here is an article on fertilizer dose in potato crop:
Potatoes are one of the most commonly grown crops around the world. They are not only nutrient-rich but also versatile in use, being used in a variety of dishes from mashed potatoes to French fries. In order to grow healthy and productive potato plants, it is necessary to provide appropriate doses of fertilizers at the right time. This article will cover the fertilizer dose requirements for potato crops.
Fertilizer Dose
Potato crop requires a balanced dose of three essential nutrients – nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These nutrients are necessary for the growth and development of potato plants, and their deficiency can negatively impact productivity.
Nitrogen: Nitrogen is required for vegetative growth of potato plants. Lack of nitrogen can lead to stunted growth, delayed maturity, and reduced tuber yield. The recommended dose of nitrogen varies depending on the soil type and location. For a clay loam soil, 150 kg of nitrogen/ha is recommended; for sandy loam, 120kg of nitrogen/ha is sufficient. It is advised to split the nitrogen dose into two, with the first half applied just before transplanting and the second half during the vegetative growth stage.
Phosphorus: Phosphorus is necessary for the development of strong roots, tubers, and plant growth. A deficiency of phosphorus can lead to delayed maturity and stunted growth. The recommended dose of phosphorus is 80-120kg/ha; this can vary depending on the soil type and location.
Potassium: Potassium is required for the overall growth and development of potato plants. It helps in the formation of larger and healthier tubers, and improves the resistance of plants against diseases and pests. The recommended dose of potassium is between 200 and 300kg/ha. Like nitrogen, the potassium dose is also split into two halves, with the first half applied at planting and the second half during the vegetative growth stage.
Conclusion
The fertilizer dose for potato crop varies depending on the soil type and location. It is essential to follow the recommended dose of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for healthy and productive potato plants. Applying fertilizers at the right time is crucial for optimum plant growth and tuber yield. This will not only enhance the quality of crops but also help in reducing the cost of fertilizer.