Potatoes require balanced fertility for optimum tuber quality and yield to meet the growing caloric demand of the world population. Potatoes take up and remove more potassium than any other nutrient. Fertility recommendations developed by land-grant universities (UI, WSU, CSU, UW, etc.) over the past half-century are based on soil K values and yield goals. The resulting matrix chart in many areas would suggest no additional potassium be added to achieve optimum production. If true, then why do we see improved yield and quality when applying potassium acetate? In this case it’s due to the acetate-carbon being utilized by plants and soil microbes to produce compounds that enhance plant growth, nutrient efficiency, tuber quality, and microbiome health. If the matrix is inaccurate, then it’s necessary to “bio-charge” a base fertility program by adding available and efficient potassium acetate fertilizer targeting specific placement and timing to enhance yield and tuber quality.
Tommy Roach, VP Product Development & Technical Services, Nachurs Alpine Solutions