Potash Use and Dynamics in Agriculture

This book explores the use and dynamics of potassium fertilizers in agriculture, highlighting their importance in improving crop yield and quality. It addresses the lack of skills and resources among agro-technicians to promote the right source and rate of fertilizer application, and emphasizes the need for farmers to update their farming practices.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 124 pages
Publication date: 03 December 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate world of potassium fertilizers, exploring their usage and dynamics in agriculture. It delves into the complex dynamics of potassium in soil, its availability to plants, uptake, and translocation within crop plants, as well as the profound impact of potassium fertilizers on the quality of agricultural produce.

In many developing countries, potassium has been largely overlooked as a vital plant nutrient, despite its crucial role in agricultural productivity. In most agro-ecosystems, a negative potassium balance occurs due to the mismatch between crop removal and potassium application. Agro-technicians lack the necessary skills and resources to promote the appropriate sources, rates, and timing of fertilizers, hindering profitable farming practices.

To overcome these challenges, there is a pressing need for farmers to adopt modern farming techniques and improve crop yield and quality in unfavorable climatic conditions. The correct application of potassium fertilizers has been proven to directly contribute to increased crop yield per unit land area in many developing countries.

This book aims to bridge the information gap and provide readers with the most up-to-date insights into the use of potassium fertilizers. It is a valuable resource for graduate students, progressive farmers, extension workers, early career researchers, and policy makers alike.

The book begins by providing an overview of potassium's importance in agriculture, highlighting its role in plant growth, nutrient metabolism, and crop yield. It then delves into the various sources of potassium fertilizers, including rock minerals, organic matter, and synthetic compounds. The authors discuss the nutrient composition and properties of these fertilizers, as well as their application methods and techniques.

Next, the book explores the complex dynamics of potassium in soil, including its availability, uptake, and translocation within crop plants. It discusses the factors that influence potassium availability, such as soil pH, texture, and organic matter content, as well as the mechanisms by which plants absorb and utilize potassium. The authors also discuss the role of potassium in plant nutrition, including its involvement in photosynthesis, water regulation, and stress tolerance.

The impact of potassium fertilizers on the quality of agricultural produce is a crucial aspect of the book. It discusses the benefits of potassium fertilizers in improving crop yield, fruit quality, and disease resistance. The authors explore the effects of potassium on plant growth, nutrient metabolism, and the synthesis of essential compounds such as proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins. They also discuss the potential risks and challenges associated with potassium fertilizers, such as nutrient imbalances, soil toxicity, and environmental pollution.

Throughout the book, case studies and examples are provided to illustrate the practical applications of potassium fertilizers in different agricultural systems and crops. These case studies showcase the successful use of potassium fertilizers in improving crop yield, enhancing nutrient content, and reducing soil erosion. They also highlight the importance of proper fertilizer management and application techniques to maximize the benefits of potassium fertilizers while minimizing the potential risks.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in potassium fertilizers and their role in agriculture. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of potassium dynamics in soil, phytoavailability, uptake, and translocation in crop plants, as well as the impact of potassium fertilizers on the quality of agricultural produce. By addressing the challenges faced by farmers and agro-technicians, this book aims to promote the sustainable use of potassium fertilizers and contribute to the development of resilient and productive agricultural systems.

Weight: 232g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811668852
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022