1、Sweet potato crop response to phosphate fertilization

Despite the importance of sweet potato for human consumption, in current agricultural systems, the cultivation of this crop is generally carried out in soils with low fertility, especially in soils deficient in phosphorus (Li et al. 2020). That reflects this crop’s low yield.

2、Sweet Potato Fertilizer Requirements and Recommendations: Management

One of the best phosphorus fertilizers for sweet potatoes is rock phosphate. It is a natural source of phosphorus and provides a slow-release supply to the plants. Another option is superphosphate, which contains a higher phosphorus concentration and is readily available to the crops.

3、Response of Sweet Potato to Integrated Effect of Chemical and Natural

In general, the obtained results indicated that for increasing sweet potato root production and quality, a combination between superphosphate at the recommended P level and VAM-fungi inoculation treatment was the best.

4、Enhancement of phosphorus uptake, growth and yield of sweet potato

This research was carried out to determine the best phosphorus fertilizer for improvement of sweet potato phosphorus uptake, growth and yield. The phosphorus fertilizer sources used...

Effects of Bio and water

To verify an effective approach for alleviating problems associated with the consecutive monoculture of sweet potato, five fertilizer treatments were designed under plastic film-mulched,...

How to Apply Fertilizer to Sweet Potatoes? Boost Your Harvest

One critical aspect of sweet potato cultivation is fertilizer application, which can significantly impact yields, quality, and overall plant health.

Sweet Potato Fertilization Requirements

Sweet potatoes are tolerant plants to low fertilization and nutrient availability. However, most farmers apply fertilizers to boost their yields for commercial farming.

Which Fertilizer Is Best For Sweet Potatoes

For successful sweet potato cultivation, timing and application methods for fertilizers matter significantly. Applying a balanced fertilizer, often labeled as 10-10-10 or similar, is essential.

(PDF) Growth and yield response of sweet potato to different tillage

Fertilizer application can increase sweet potato yield by at least 32% in poor soil conditions and nearly double (83-93%) in better soil conditions (Stathers, et al., 2005).

Effects of Bio and water

To verify an effective approach for alleviating problems associated with the consecutive monoculture of sweet potato, five fertilizer treatments were designed under plastic film-mulched, drip-fertigated conditions in fields continuously planted with sweet potato over five years.

Superphosphate is a common fertilizer component containing phosphorus (P₂O₅) and calcium (CaO). As a compound fertilizer widely used in agriculture, rational application of chemical fertilizers is critical for crop growth. Below is a detailed analysis of the effects, precautions, and influencing factors of applying superphosphate to sweet potatoes, helping you better understand its impact on sweet potato cultivation.

I. Effects of Superphosphate Fertilizer on Sweet Potatoes

1. Promoting Sweet Potato Growth

• Sweet potatoes, as root vegetables rich in starch, dietary fiber, and vitamins, have high nutritional demands. Phosphorus, a key element in superphosphate, is essential for sweet potato growth. It promotes root development, enhances water and nutrient absorption, and supports overall growth.
• During the early growth stage, appropriate superphosphate application provides sufficient phosphorus to meet rapid growth demands, stimulates stem and leaf development, improves photosynthetic efficiency, and increases yield.

2. Improving Sweet Potato Quality

• Phosphorus supply significantly impacts sweet potato quality. Superphosphate enhances sugar content, taste, and nutritional value. Studies show phosphorus fertilization increases soluble sugars and starch, making sweet potatoes sweeter and more palatable.
• Calcium in superphosphate helps regulate soil pH, preventing excessive acidity from affecting quality. Additionally, calcium strengthens disease resistance, reducing pest and disease risks.

3. Reducing Fertilizer Costs

• Superphosphate optimizes phosphorus utilization compared to single-nutrient fertilizers, minimizing waste. Its high phosphorus availability reduces total fertilizer usage and production costs.
• Superphosphate also improves fertilizer efficiency while reducing environmental pollution. Its phosphorus remains less fixed in soil, enhancing crop absorption and minimizing runoff.

II. Precautions for Applying Superphosphate to Sweet Potatoes

1. Rational Proportioning

• Adjust superphosphate dosage based on growth stages and soil conditions. Avoid overapplication, which may cause soil salinization or nutrient imbalance.
• Increase phosphorus during early growth stages but reduce it near maturity to prevent excess nutrients from hindering development.

2. Optimal Timing

• Apply superphosphate before or during the vigorous growth stage to maximize nutrient absorption. Consider soil temperature and humidity to ensure optimal effectiveness.

3. Avoid Overapplication

• Excessive superphosphate can lead to soil salinization and nutrient imbalance, causing poor growth and reduced yields. Use recommended doses strictly.

III. Factors Influencing Superphosphate Efficiency

1. Soil Conditions

• Soil type (clay vs. sandy) affects fertilizer retention. Clay soils retain nutrients better, while sandy soils require higher phosphorus rates.
• Soil pH impacts superphosphate efficacy. Acidic soils may fix phosphorus, while alkaline soils precipitate calcium. Test and adjust pH accordingly.

2. Climate

• Temperature and rainfall influence microbial activity and nutrient transformation. High temperatures or drought slow nutrient release, requiring adjusted application timing.
• Rainfall extremes (excess or deficit) affect soil moisture and nutrient uptake. Tailor irrigation and fertilization schedules to climate patterns.

3. Cultivation Practices

• Planting density, row spacing, and management techniques impact growth and nutrient absorption. Optimal spacing ensures adequate light and ventilation.
• Timely irrigation and balanced fertilization improve efficiency and yields.

Superphosphate is a valuable tool in sweet potato cultivation, enhancing quality, yield, and cost efficiency while reducing environmental impact. successful application depends on rational dosage, timing, soil conditions, and agricultural practices. Scientific fertilization strategies are key to sustainable sweet potato production.