1、Potassium fertilization and soil diagnostic criteria for forage corn (Zea mays L.) production contributing to lower potassium input in regional fertilizer

Two corn varieties, ‘Cecilia’ as a low K uptake variety and ‘Yumechikara’ as a high K uptake variety, were selected from among 20 varieties and tested to make diagnostic criteria for K fertilization applicable to varieties with different K uptakes.

2、Fertilizer placement to improve crop nutrient acquisition and yield: A review and meta

Results showed that overall, fertilizer placement led to 3.7% higher yield, 3.7% higher nutrient concentration and 11.9% higher nutrient content in above-ground parts than fertilizer broadcast.

3、Evaluation of Soil Potassium Test to Improve Fertilizer Recommendations for Corn

Ten on-farm trials were conducted in 2014 in eastern North Dakota to determine the corn response to different K-fertilizer rates and to assess the variation of soil K test levels between air- dried (KDry) and field moist (KMoist) soil samples during the corn growing season.

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

Plants uptake K as cation (K +) and many sources of K are available in soils or provided as fertilizers, including potassium chloride (KCl), potassium nitrate (KNO 3), potassium sulfate (K 2 SO 4), and potassium carbonate (K 2 CO 3).

Potassium for better crop production and quality

The papers given in this Special Issue focus on the role of potassium and other mineral nutrients in cropping systems, nutrient-use efficiency, food production and quality, forest nutrition, and climatic changes.

Effects of fertilization on crop production and nutrient

Based on the study results, a balanced nutrient application using NPK fertilization is a key management strategy for enhancing rice-rapeseed productivity and environmental safety. Agriculture...

Application of Jatropha Rind Compost as K Source in the Sweet Corn (Zea Mays Saccharata Sturt.) Cultivation

The research aims to study the influence of jatropha rind compost as substitute KCl fertilizer on sweet corn (Zea mays saccharata Sturt.), and get the proper rate of the compost for increasing the growth and yield of sweet corn.

RESPONSE OF MAIZE TO FOLIAR VS. SOIL APPLICATION OF NITROGEN–PHOSPHORUS–POTASSIUM FERTILIZERS: Journal of Plant Nutrition: Vol 25 , No 11

The aim of the present study was to determine the efficiency of different forms of nitrogen–phosphorus–potassium (NPK) fertilizers applied to maize (Zea mays L.), either to the soil or to the leaves.

The potassium paradox: Implications for soil fertility, crop production and human health

Intensive fertilizer usage of KCl has been inculcated as a prerequisite for maximizing crop yield and quality, and relies on a soil test for exchangeable K in the plow layer to ensure that soil productivity will not be limited by nutrient depletion.

Effect of Long

A large deficit of soil potassium was observed under the rotation system in Hebei, and soil potassium showed an apparent surplus only in treatment of NPK + St in the two soil types; therefore, it can be concluded that only wheat straw or K fertilizer cannot counteract the consumption of soil potassium.

Corn, as one of the world's major food crops, has its yield and quality influenced by various factors. The use of potassium fertilizers plays a critical role in corn growth and development. Selecting appropriate potassium fertilizers is essential for improving corn yield and quality. Below is a detailed guide on optimal potassium fertilizer choices for corn cultivation.

I. Selection of Potassium Fertilizers

1. Potassium Sulfate (K₂SO₄) Potassium sulfate is a common potassium fertilizer characterized by fast absorption and slow release. It is suitable for early growth stages or situations requiring rapid potassium supplementation. It promotes root development, enhances disease resistance, and improves overall plant health.

2. Potassium Chloride (KCl) Potassium chloride is widely used due to its fast absorption and slow release. It rapidly boosts corn growth and yield while reducing soil salt accumulation, minimizing negative impacts on plants.

3. Potassium Nitrate (KNO₃) Potassium nitrate is a high-nitrogen, low-potassium fertilizer ideal for crops requiring significant nitrogen but less potassium. It supports corn development and yield but should not be used alone due to its low potassium content.

4. Potassium Phosphate (KH₂PO₄) This compound fertilizer contains both phosphorus and potassium, suitable for balanced nutrient applications. It enhances growth, yield, and stress resistance while improving adaptability to adverse conditions.

5. Potassium Magnesium Sulfate (KMgSO₄) A composite fertilizer providing potassium and magnesium, it benefits crops requiring both elements. It boosts yield, quality, and stress resistance in corn.

6. Organic Fertilizers Animal manure, green manure, and other organic materials rich in potassium can serve as natural potassium sources. They improve growth, yield, and quality but require careful selection to avoid soil contamination from inferior products.

II. Application Methods

1. Basal Application Mix potassium fertilizer thoroughly with soil during plowing. Suitable for large fields, this method ensures steady potassium supply throughout the growth cycle.

2. Topdressing Targeted application during specific growth stages via foliar spraying, root feeding, or irrigation. This approach addresses immediate nutrient needs and promotes development.

3. Drip Irrigation Dissolve potassium fertilizer in water and deliver directly to roots via drip systems. This precise method maximizes efficiency, reduces waste, and allows tailored nutrient control.

4. Foliar Spraying Dilute potassium solutions and spray onto leaves for quick nutrient absorption. Enhances photosynthesis and nutrient transport but requires careful concentration control and timing.

III. Key Considerations

1. Soil Conditions

   • Acidic soils: Avoid excessive potassium sulfate to prevent acidification.
   • Alkaline soils: Limit potassium chloride to reduce salt buildup. Test soil pH and nutrients before selecting fertilizer types and dosages.

2. Crop Requirements

   • High-potassium crops (e.g., soybeans, peanuts): Increase potassium use.
   • Low-to-moderate demand crops (e.g., corn, wheat): Adjust dosage or choose alternative potassium sources.

3. Environmental Factors

   • Arid regions: Increase potassium to offset water deficits.
   • Rainy areas: Reduce dosage to avoid runoff and pollution.

4. Timing

   • Basal application: Prior to planting.
   • Topdressing: During critical growth stages.
   • Foliar spraying: As needed throughout the season.

5. Dosage and Proportions

   • Typical rates: 10–15 kg/mu of potassium sulfate/chloride/nitrate.
   • Organic fertilizers: Adjust based on nutrient content and crop needs.

6. Application Frequency

   • Basal and topdressing: Flexible scheduling.
   • Foliar spraying: Frequent as required by plant status.

7. Integration with Other Fertilizers Balance nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium ratios to optimize nutrient uptake and minimize environmental impact.

Selecting and applying potassium fertilizers for corn requires综合考虑 soil properties, crop demands, environmental conditions, and application methods. By tailoring choices to specific needs and adopting scientific practices, farmers can maximize corn yield and quality while ensuring efficient resource use.