Decisions on optimal fertilizer management can be challenging in years with low commodity prices, says Daniel Kaiser, University of Minnesota (U of M) Extension soil fertility specialist. In the article below, he gives five factors that farmers should consider as they make decisions for applying K for corn and soybean.
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1. Focus on rate, not timing.
Applying the correct rate needed over one or two years in a crop rotation has been shown to be more important than the time the fertilizer is applied. Much U of M current data has demonstrated that timing of application in a multiyear cropping rotation is not important. Applying ahead of the crop that will get the greatest advantage from the K is the best way to get the most bang for your buck.
2. Focus on a proven yield, not a yield goal.
It can be difficult to determine what yield should be used for both a sufficiency-based or build and maintenance K application strategy. Using a historical yield average is the best option. A value you have proven can be produced is a smart way to ensure fertilizer is not overapplied. The soil itself is not devoid of K, so being exact on your predicted rates is not critical. Some fertilizer is always better than none in situations where a response to a nutrient is likely.
3. Stick to the same time of year when soil sampling.
Sampling fields at similar times of the year is critical to ensure you can accurately determine how soil test values for K change over time. Potassium is different from other nutrients in that the soil test value is not static in the field over the growing season. It can vary from fall to spring.
4. Apply K when and where it is needed.
Soil tests are still the best option for deciding when and where K fertilizer should be applied. For soils higher in clay ' like loams and clay loam soils ' the chance for a profitable response to K fertilizer is low when soil tests are around 200 parts per million K. For sandy soils that don't hold K well ' such as loamy sands ' high rates of K may not be needed, even though soil test values can be lower compared with higher clay soils.
5. Choose the right placement option.
Research has shown that banding K can be more effective in some circumstances. Broadcast application of K in reduced tillage situations like ridge- and strip-tillage or no-till can stratify K near the soil surface, which can lead to poor uptake in dry soils. While banding K is not always needed, identifying situations where it is beneficial can help ensure optimal productivity.
It is a good time to start reviewing fertilizer decisions as we wait for fields to dry this spring. There are situations where K may not be needed, so knowing which fields need K could save time this spring.
Support for this project was provided by the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council (MSR&PC) and the Agricultural Fertilizer Research & Education Council (AFREC).
Potassium, along with nitrogen and phosphorus, makes up the trio of nutrients that most impact the growth of plants.
Nitrogen is essential to protein creation, while phosphorus is vital to the photosynthesis process.
Amongst other functions, potassium strengthens disease resistance in plants.
Choosing the right mix of potassium for plants can be tricky as there's no one-size-fits-all in plant nutrition needs.
Why Do Plants Need Potassium?
Plants use potassium in developing chlorophyll, which provides the green color in plants and algae.
Potassium also supports plant growth in other ways.
For example, it helps water and sugar transport inside the plant, making flowers and seeds stronger and fruit sweet and juicy.
When plants get the right level of potassium, disease resistance is improved as well.
How Do I Know When My Plants Need Potassium?
Plants lacking in potassium develop:
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- Weak stems
- Floppy leaves
- Discolored leaves including: yellow or brown tips or appear scorched along the edges.
Do I Need a High Potassium fertilizer?
Whether you need a high potassium mix to feed your plants depends on several causes 'specific plant needs, the nutrients in your soil, and the local climate.
For example, sandy soils in high rainfall areas often lack in potassium.
If you're ever unsure about what nutrients your plants need, conducting a soil test analysis is the safest bet to ensure you accurately provide the nutrients your plants require at any given time.
Potassium Fertilizer Mixes
Fertilizer mixes have three numbers printed on their bags, e.g., 10-10-10.
These refer to the amount of N (nitrogen), P (phosphorus), and K (potassium) that are in the mix.
There are several standard fertilizer mixes containing potassium (K) for plants:
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Potassium Chloride ' also known as Muriate of Potash, is the most widely used potassium fertilizer. It can cause plants to burn if directly applied but is safer in powdered and soluble mixtures as they are weaker mixes.
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Potassium Sulphate ' also contains sulfur aside from potassium. It's preferred for specific fruits and vegetables, such as strawberries and potatoes, and is widely supplied via water-soluble mixtures.
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Monopotassium Phosphate ' is a source of phosphorus and potassium. It helps strong root growth and should be applied early in the plant's growing cycle.
Other mixes contain potassium and other nutrients for specific uses, such as indoor plants with lower fertilizer needs.
Buy Quality Fertilizers
Fertilizers rich in potassium can be guaranteed to improve the growth and strength of your garden.
If you're cautious with the elements you put into your garden, it helps to check the labels of fertilizer bags and go with an option that heavy-metal free and eco-friendly.
You can then be confident of not unintentionally introducing any toxic elements onto your property.
Where Do I Find Quality High Potassium Fertilizer?
Here at Greenway Biotech, we sell only the highest quality fertilizer mixes, including potassium for plants.
We know it can be tricky working out which combination of potassium fertilizer is the best for your garden needs.
Different plant species have different nutrient needs, and your soil conditions and climate also affect potassium levels.
Our quality high potassium soluble fertilizers include:
- Potassium Chloride 0-0-62
- Potassium Sulfate 0-0-53
- Monopotassium Phosphate 0-52-34
- Kelp Meal 2-0-4
- Blossom Green 2-6-8
- Sulfate of Potash Magnesia 0-0-21.5
If selecting the most suitable mix of potassium for plants seems confusing, we're always happy to help.
Use our 'questions' page to get expert advice on your gardening needs, but if you're ready to shop, you can browse some of our high potassium fertilizers below.
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