Potatoes, also known as tubers, are a high-starch crop that goes through several key growth stages: the seedling stage, tuber formation and growth phase, and the starch accumulation period. Throughout their growth cycle, potatoes require the most potassium, followed by nitrogen, with the least amount of phosphorus. Each growth stage has distinct nutrient needs. During the early seedling phase, the plant is still developing, and although it contains some nutrients, it doesn't need much—about 25% of the total nutrient requirement. As the tubers begin to form and grow, the plant's demand for nutrients increases significantly, accounting for roughly 50% of the total fertilizer needed. This is when the shoots grow and the tubers expand simultaneously, making this phase critical for yield and quality. In the final starch accumulation stage, the plant requires fewer nutrients, about 25% of the total. Therefore, ensuring sufficient nutrient supply during the tuber formation and growth period is essential for maximizing yield and starch content.
Potatoes have strong adaptability and can be grown in various regions across China, with an average growing season of 90 to 110 days. To produce 1,000 kg of potatoes, the crop absorbs approximately 3.5–5.5 kg of nitrogen, 2.0–2.2 kg of phosphorus (P₂O₅), and 10.6–12.0 kg of potassium (K₂O). The N:P₂O₅:K₂O ratio is around 4.5:2.1:11.3 or simplified to 1:0.5:2. If the yield reaches 1,500 kg per mu, the average nutrient uptake is about 7–3–17 kg. Nitrogen supports stem and leaf growth and helps accumulate starch and protein in the tubers. Phosphorus enhances plant health, improves tuber quality, and boosts both starch content and yield. Potassium plays a crucial role in starch accumulation during the later growth stages and strengthens the plant’s resistance to diseases and cold weather. Additionally, potatoes are sensitive to boron and zinc. Boron aids in the expansion of tubers and prevents cracking, while zinc contributes to better photosynthesis and overall plant productivity.
Fertilization techniques should follow a balanced approach, combining organic and chemical fertilizers. The base fertilizer should make up more than two-thirds of the total, mainly consisting of well-rotted farmyard manure and some chemical fertilizers, especially those rich in phosphorus and potassium. This helps improve soil structure and supports healthy growth. About 50% of the nitrogen should be applied as a base fertilizer, typically at a depth of 15 cm using furrow or spot application. A standard rate might include 1,500–2,500 kg of organic manure, 20 kg of urea, 20–30 kg of calcium, 10–12 kg of potassium fertilizer, or 40–60 kg of a high-nitrogen and potassium compound fertilizer per acre. Fertilizer should be placed 2–3 cm away from the seed pieces to avoid direct contact and then covered with soil.
Top-dressing should be done according to the growth stage. During the seedling stage, applying 5–8 kg of urea per acre with irrigation can help strengthen the plants. After flowering, it's generally not recommended to apply rhizosphere fertilizers, especially nitrogen, as this may reduce tuber quality. Instead, foliar sprays of 0.3–0.5% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution can be used, with 50–70 kg per acre. If nitrogen deficiency occurs, adding 100–150 g of urea per acre and repeating every 10–15 days can help. For boron or zinc deficiencies, spraying 0.1–0.3% borax or zinc sulfate every 7 days for two applications is effective. It's important to note that potatoes are a high-potassium crop, so potassium should be given special attention in balanced fertilization. Avoid using chlorine-containing fertilizers like potassium chloride; instead, use potassium sulfate to maintain potato quality.
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