1、Effects of leaf

And furthermore, this experiment confirms that K should be sufficiently and timely applied both at full bloom and fruit coloring stages to the table grape cultivars, to ensure fruit growth as well as high use efficiency of the K fertilizer.

2、Potassium: A Vital Regulator of Plant Responses and Tolerance to Abiotic Stresses

However, as a chemical fertilizer, potassium (K) has been used on crop field since the nineteenth century [5]. The role of K in the plant developmental process is well known. The upregulation of the K status decreases reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in plants.

3、Estimating the potential to reduce potassium surplus in intensive vegetable fields of China

Potassium (K) is important for crop quality, and this knowledge has stimulated substantial K fertilizer application in intensive cropping systems of China, resulting in an unbalanced nutrient supply and the squandering of K resources.

Guidelines for fertilizer use in vineyards based on nutrient content of grapevine parts

Plant analysis plays a major role in fertilizer recommendations for perennial tree crops and vines. Plant analysis, however, does not quantify the rate of nutrients to apply.

Potassium for Sustainable Agriculture

As K has strong interaction with clay minerals, therefore it is intensely recommended to apply K fertilizers based on soil mineralogy and K dynamics in the soil.

China must reduce fertilizer use too

Chinese farmers need to be taught how, when and in what quantities fertilizer should be applied. The existing agricultural-extension system must revert to its role of assisting farmers by...

MONO

Foliar sprays of 1% mono-potassium phosphate fertilizer PeaK ® (MKP=KH 2 PO 4), demethylation inhibitors (DMI) fungicides, and an alternating treatment with Peak and DMI inhibited development of PM on fruit and leaves and fruit clusters of field-grown nectarine trees and grapevines, respectively.

A petiole sap test for nitrate and potassium in Sultana grapevines

A sap test has been developed to measure petiole nitrate and potassium concentrations in Sultana grapevines. Sap extraction was carried out after freezing the petioles to cause cell rupture.

Potassium fertilization: paradox or K management dilemma?

In 2014, Khan et al. presented evidence that soil exchangeable K (Exch-K) increases over time without addition of potassium (K) to the soil despite the removal of K in crops on a soil rich in montmorillonite and illite. The authors term this behavior ‘The potassium paradox’.

Interactions of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium supplied in Leaf Sprays or in Fertilizer added to the Soil

When sugar-beet plants grown in pots were sprayed daily with nutrient solutions supplying nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium separately or in all combinations, with precautions to prevent spray falling on the soil in which the plants were grown, all three nutrients were absorbed through the leaves.

Grapes are a crucial fruit crop, valued not only for their delicious taste but also for their high nutritional content. in agricultural production, the yield and quality of grapes are influenced by various factors, with the use of potassium fertilizer being a critical aspect. Whether non-fruiting grapevines require potassium fertilization and why it is necessary warrants detailed exploration. Below is a comprehensive analysis of this question:

I. Why Do Non-Fruiting Grapevines Need Potassium Fertilizer?

1. Promoting Growth and Development Potassium fertilizer enhances root system development and improves the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. This is particularly vital for non-fruiting grapevines, as healthy roots directly impact growth rates and future fruit development. Potassium stimulates cell division, elongation, and photosynthetic efficiency, ensuring adequate nutrition for robust growth.

2. Enhancing Stress Resistance Potassium strengthens disease resistance and reduces pathogen risks. It regulates acid-base balance within plants, reducing leaf acidity and minimizing disease occurrence. Additionally, it improves tolerance to adverse conditions like drought and cold.

3. Improving Fruit Quality Potassium boosts sugar accumulation, enhancing sweetness, and promotes protein synthesis for juicier, more vibrant fruits. Thus, proper potassium application is essential for superior grape quality.

II. Methods and Precautions for Applying Potassium Fertilizer

1. Select Appropriate Fertilizers Choose from options like potassium sulfate or potassium chloride based on soil pH, growth stages, and climate. Ensure compatibility and safety.

2. Optimal Application Rates Apply 5–10 kg of potassium sulfate per mu (approx. 0.1 hectare) for most grape varieties. Excessive use may lead to soil salinization.

3. Proper Application Techniques

   • Avoid mixing with nitrogen fertilizers to prevent ammonia toxicity.
   • Use trench or hole application for even distribution.
   • Keep fertilizer away from roots to avoid burning.

4. Timely Top-Dressing Apply during early growth and flowering stages when potassium demand is highest. This supports fruit development and quality.

5. Monitor Soil Conditions Test soil potassium levels regularly. If excess, improve drainage to reduce humidity.

6. Avoid Monoculture Rotate crops or amend soil (e.g., with organic matter) to prevent nutrient imbalances.

7. Scientific Principles

   • Follow "small doses, frequent applications" to avoid salinization.
   • Align fertilization schedules with growth cycles and market demands.

8. Balanced Nutrient Supply Combine with nitrogen (for foliage and bud differentiation), phosphorus (for root health and disease resistance), and micronutrients (e.g., boron, zinc) for optimal results.

9. Pest and Disease Control Enhanced resistance from potassium may attract pests. Use fungicides, insecticides, or biological controls (e.g., predatory insects) as needed.

10. Environmental Protection Prioritize sustainable practices: choose eco-friendly fertilizers, minimize waste, and prevent soil contamination.

III. Mechanisms of Potassium Fertilizer Action

1. Root Development Potassium improves water/nutrient uptake, fostering deeper roots, faster growth, and better fruit quality.

2. Stress Resistance Potassium buffers plants against drought, cold, and diseases by regulating acid-base balance.

3. Carbohydrate Metabolism Boosts sugar synthesis (glucose, fructose), enhancing fruit sweetness.

4. Acid-Base Regulation Neutralizes soil acidity or alkalinity, maintaining ideal growing conditions.

5. Protein Synthesis Supports protein production, strengthening overall plant resilience.

6. Enzyme Activation Enhances metabolic enzyme activity, accelerating nutrient conversion.

7. Hormone Regulation Stimulates hormone production (e.g., auxins, gibberellins), guiding healthy growth and fruiting.

8. Photosynthesis Efficiency Improves light energy capture, increasing sugar accumulation.

9. Water Transport Promotes aquaporin synthesis, optimizing water absorption for fruit development.

10. Energy Metabolism Stimulates respiration, fuelling growth and fruit maturation.

Applying potassium fertilizer to non-fruiting grapevines is essential for promoting growth, improving stress resistance, and enhancing fruit quality. Fertilization strategies should consider soil conditions, growth stages, and environmental sustainability. By balancing nutrients and adhering to scientific principles, growers can maximize both yield and market competitiveness.