Fertilizer for potatoes: what, when and how much to apply

05.05.2023 06:20

Potatoes are one of the most popular and sought-after vegetable crops in our country.

It is characterized by high productivity, good taste and wide range of uses.

However, in order to get a large and high-quality potato harvest, it is necessary to properly prepare the soil and add the necessary fertilizers to it.

Potato fertilizers can be divided into three groups: organic, mineral and complex. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages, as well as its own application features.

Organic fertilizers are products of animal or plant origin, such as manure, humus, compost, ash, etc. They enrich the soil with nutrients, improve its structure and water-holding capacity. Organic fertilizers are added to the soil in the fall or early spring before planting potatoes. They are spread over the surface or dug in to a depth of 10-15 cm.

Potato
Photo: © Belnovosti

Mineral fertilizers are synthetic or natural compounds containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other microelements. They quickly saturate plants with useful substances, stimulate their growth and development. Mineral fertilizers are added to the soil when planting potatoes or during their vegetation. They are scattered over the surface or placed in a hole.

Complex fertilizers are mixtures of organic and mineral components that contain all the necessary nutrients in a balanced ratio. They provide complex nutrition for plants, increase their resistance to diseases and stress. Complex fertilizers are added to the soil when planting potatoes or fertilizing. They are distributed over the surface or placed in a hole.

The choice of fertilizer for potatoes depends on the soil condition, potato variety, climate conditions and the personal preferences of the gardener.

It is important to observe the dosage and timing of fertilizer application so as not to overfeed or underfeed the plants. It is also necessary to consider the compatibility of different types of fertilizers with each other and with other plant protection products.

Correctly selected and applied fertilizer for potatoes during planting will help to obtain a good harvest of healthy and tasty tubers.

Elena Gutyro Author: Elena Gutyro Internet resource editor