Potatoes, also known as tubers, are a high-starch crop that requires specific nutrient management throughout their growth cycle. The plant goes through several key stages: seedling development, tuber formation, and starch accumulation. During the entire growing period, potatoes absorb the most potassium, followed by nitrogen, with phosphorus being the least required. Each growth phase has unique nutrient needs.
In the early seedling stage, the tubers already contain sufficient nutrients, so the overall requirement is relatively low—about 25% of the total during the whole growth period. As the plant enters the tuber formation and growth phase, both the above-ground shoots and underground tubers develop simultaneously, requiring more nutrients—approximately 50% of the total. This is a critical time for nutrient supply, as it directly affects yield and starch content. In the final starch accumulation stage, the plant’s nutrient demand decreases again, accounting for about 25% of the total.
Potatoes have strong adaptability and can be grown in various regions across China, typically taking 90 to 110 days to mature. To produce 1,000 kg of potatoes, the crop absorbs roughly 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 approximately 4.5:2.1:11.3, or simplified to 1:0.5:2. For higher yields, such as 1,500 kg per mu, the average nutrient uptake is around 7–3–17 kg. Nitrogen supports stem and leaf growth and enhances starch and protein accumulation in tubers. Phosphorus improves plant health, tuber quality, and storability, while potassium plays a vital role in starch accumulation and disease resistance. Additionally, potatoes are sensitive to boron and zinc—boron helps prevent cracking and enhances photosynthesis, while zinc supports overall growth and development.
Fertilization practices should follow a balanced approach, combining organic and chemical fertilizers. Base fertilizer should make up more than two-thirds of the total, mainly consisting of well-rotted farmyard manure and some phosphorus-potassium fertilizers. About 50% of the nitrogen is applied at this stage. Fertilizer should be placed 2–3 cm away from the seed pieces, at a depth of about 15 cm. A typical base fertilizer application includes 1,500 kg of organic fertilizer, 20 kg of urea, 20–30 kg of calcium, 10–12 kg of potassium fertilizer, or 40–60 kg of compound fertilizer per mu.
Top-dressing should be done carefully. During the seedling stage, a small amount of nitrogen fertilizer can be applied, such as 5–8 kg of urea per mu, combined with soil cultivation. After flowering, no additional nitrogen should be used, but foliar sprays of phosphorus and potassium, like 0.3–0.5% potassium dihydrogen phosphate, are recommended. If nitrogen deficiency occurs, 100–150 g of urea can be added. Spraying should be done every 10–15 days, up to two or three times. Boron and zinc deficiencies can be corrected using 0.1–0.3% borax or zinc sulfate, sprayed every 7 days for two applications. It's important to avoid chlorine-containing fertilizers like potassium chloride, as they may reduce potato quality. Instead, potassium sulfate is preferred. Proper nutrient management ensures healthy growth and maximizes yield and quality.
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