1、Potassium fertilizer: To apply or not in 2025?

Discover essential insights on potassium fertilizer management for corn and soybean farmers facing economic challenges in 2025, including soil testing strategies and crop removal rates.

2、Potassium Guidelines for Corn

After nitrogen and phosphorus, potassium (K) is the nutrient most likely to limit plant growth. Potassium is needed for energy metabolism, starch synthesis, photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation, and sugar degradation.

3、Manure acts as a better fertilizer for increasing crop yields than

The application of farmyard manure, rice straw, and fertilizer nitrogen could maintain SOC almost at the same level as for the uncultivated soil for rice-wheat cropping systems in the Indo-Gangetic plains (Benbi et al., 2012). However, the mechanisms by which different fertilizer inputs affect crop yields by improving SOC remain unclear.

4、Phosphorus and Potassium Fertility for Corn and Soybean

Few inputs have experienced such dramatic price fluctuations relative to grain as have phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilizers. This Crop Insights describes best P and K fertility management practices for corn and soybeans in an era of high prices and market uncertainty.

Corn yield response to phosphorus and potassium fertilization in

Phosphorus and potassium are key nutrients for plant physiological processes and are required in large amounts for adequate corn (Zea mays L.) production. Corn is a major row crop, and up-to-date soil test-based fertilizer recommendations are required to enhance production and profitability.

Managing Potassium for Crop Production

Potassium in animal manure is almost totally dissolved in the liquid fraction, so it is important to conserve this portion of the manure. As long as liquid is not lost, handling and surface or incorporated application do not affect K content or availability.

Importance of Adequate Potassium for Corn Production

Potassium (K) is one of the 17 essential nutrients required for corn to complete its lifecycle. It is considered a primary macronutrient, due to the large quantity needed throughout the growing season.

Fertilizing Corn

Adequate soil fertility is one of the requirements for profitable corn production. Nitrogen (N) is the most yield-limiting nutrient, unless previous manure applications or excessive N fertilizer rates leave high residual NO3-N levels in the soil.

Why Type of Fertilizer is Best for Corn Farming?

Just like a lawn in a front yard, corn needs essential nutrients and minerals to grow — nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium chief among them.

Influence of fertilizer and manure inputs on soil health: A review

Phosphorus (P) fertilizers are typically produced from acidification of phosphate rock. In addition to the ammonium-based phosphate fertilizers, triple super phosphate is also used. Potassium (K) fertilizers are generated from the refinement of K salts or ores and in some cases by solution mining.

Corn, as one of the world's most important grain crops, has long been a focus of agricultural research aimed at improving its yield and quality. In corn production, the use of farmyard manure is a traditional and effective fertilization method. It provides abundant nutrients for corn, promotes root development, and enhances overall plant health. to further optimize corn growth and yield, the application of potassium fertilizer becomes particularly critical. The following sections will explore in detail why potassium fertilizer is still needed in corn production and how to apply it scientifically.

I. Corn's Demand for Potassium

1. Mechanism of Potassium Fertilizer

• Potassium fertilizer enhances water absorption and utilization in plants, improving drought resistance.
• Potassium strengthens cell wall stability, prevents fruit cracking, and boosts stress tolerance.
• Potassium participates in photosynthesis, increasing photosynthetic efficiency.

2. Potassium Requirements at Different Growth Stages

• Seedling Stage: Potassium promotes root development and stem robustness, crucial for early growth.
• Jointing to Maturity Stage: Potassium significantly impacts grain size, quantity, and overall yield.

II. Combining Farmyard Manure with Potassium Fertilizer

1. Potassium Content in Farmyard Manure

• Farmyard manure, derived from animal feces or organic residues, contains some potassium.
• potassium levels vary by source and must be measured for accuracy.

2. Methods for Applying Potassium Fertilizer

• Adjust potassium dosage and timing based on soil tests and corn growth needs.
• Avoid overapplication to prevent soil salinization or root burn.

III. Types and Selection of Potassium Fertilizers

1. Common Types of Potassium Fertilizers

• Potassium Carbonate (K₂CO₃): Suitable for acidic soils; quickly absorbed for rapid growth.
• Potassium Sulfate (K₂SO₄): Ideal for neutral/alkaline soils; improves soil structure and water retention.
• Potassium Nitrate (KNO₃): Versatile for all soil types; enhances drought resistance and disease tolerance.

2. Criteria for Selection

• Choose based on soil type, corn variety, climate, and cost-effectiveness.

IV. Techniques for Applying Potassium Fertilizer

1. Basal and Topdressing Application

• Basal Application: Spread potassium evenly on soil before planting, then incorporate it into the soil.
• Topdressing: Apply additional fertilizer during critical growth stages based on soil conditions.

2. Depth and Placement

• Apply near corn roots to maximize efficiency.
• Avoid surface spreading to prevent evaporation loss.

3. Integration with Other Fertilizers

• Do not mix potassium with excessive nitrogen to avoid nutrient loss.
• Combine with phosphorus, organic fertilizers, or compost for synergistic effects.

V. Impact of Potassium Fertilizer on Yield and Quality

1. Yield Increase

• Potassium strengthens roots, enhances nutrient/water uptake, and boosts yield.
• It also improves leaf function and photosynthetic efficiency.

2. Quality Improvement

• Potassium increases grain size, weight, and nutritional value.
• It enhances taste and consumer acceptance.

Rational use of potassium fertilizer is essential in corn production. By understanding corn's potassium requirements, analyzing farmyard manure's potassium content, selecting appropriate fertilizers, and mastering application techniques, farmers can significantly improve corn yield and quality.