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Nitrogen and potassium uptake by high-yielding potato crops

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  27 March 2009

O. P. Ifenkwe
Affiliation:
Department of Agriculture (Crop Husbandry), University College of Wales, Aberystwyth
E. J. Allen
Affiliation:
Department of Agriculture (Crop Husbandry), University College of Wales, Aberystwyth

Summary

Results are presented from two experiments (1973 and 1974) in which high potato yields were obtained (60–70 t/ha). In both, Désirée and Maris Piper accumulated much more N and K (> 200 and 300 kg/ha respectively) than was applied as fertilizer (160 kg N and 189 kg K/ha). Increasing planting density (to levels above commercial practice) increased nutrient accumulation but had only small effects on yields. Thus, high yields are associated with but not necessarily caused by large accumulations of nutrients. As a general principle, increasing fertilizer rates above those shown to be optimal will not increase yields.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1983

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