As one of the most widely grown vegetables in the world, onion crop is a valuable source of income for farmers. However, in order to maximize yield, the crop requires a well-planned fertilizer program. The required fertilizer dose for onion crop is influenced by factors such as soil fertility, rainfall, and the onion varieties used.
The first stage of fertilization in onion crop is the pre-planting phase. At this stage, it is recommended to apply a basal dose of fertilizer that contains phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen. Generally, the crop requires 60-70 kg of nitrogen, 40-50 kg of phosphorus, and 60-80 kg of potassium per hectare.
During the vegetative phase, the application of nitrogen fertilizer promotes foliar growth and enhances the development of a larger and healthier plant. The recommended dose of nitrogen fertilizer at this stage is around 60-70 kg per hectare, which should be applied in a split manner in order to avoid an overdose. The first dose should be given after 2-3 weeks of emergence, and the remaining doses should be given at intervals of 10-15 days.
During the reproductive phase, the onion crop requires fertilizer to support the development of bulbs. The crop requires less nitrogen at this stage, and it is recommended to reduce the nitrogen dose by half. However, it is paramount to apply full-dose phosphorus and potassium fertilizers to promote the development of healthy bulbs. The recommended dose of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers at this stage is around 40-50 kg and 60-80 kg per hectare, respectively.
It is important to note that the recommended fertilizer doses may vary depending on soil fertility, onion varieties used, and local climatic conditions. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a local agricultural expert or carry out soil tests to determine the appropriate fertilizer doses for onion crop cultivation.
In conclusion, proper fertilizer doses are essential for achieving a high yield in onion crop. A well-planned fertilizer program should take into account the different stages of onion crop growth, soil fertility, local climatic conditions, and onion varieties used. By following the recommended fertilizer doses and practices for onion crop cultivation, farmers can achieve healthy growth and maximize their crop yields.