In July, potatoes actively form tubers. During this period, the plant needs additional nutrition to ensure a large and high-quality harvest.
Proper feeding helps strengthen plants, increase their resistance to diseases and improve the taste of tubers.
What fertilizers and feeding methods are most effective in midsummer?
Nitrogen Fertilizers: When and How to Apply
Nitrogen plays a key role in potato growth, but its application in July should be done with caution. Excess nitrogen can cause excessive growth of tops at the expense of tuber formation.
The best option is to use nitrogen fertilizers in combination with other elements.
For example, ammonium nitrate or urea diluted in water will help support the plant in the first half of July, but it is important not to exceed the recommended dosages.
Phosphorus and potassium: the key to healthy tubers
Phosphorus is necessary for the development of the root system and acceleration of tuber formation. Superphosphate or ammophoska are excellent sources of phosphorus.
Potassium helps improve the taste of potatoes and increases their resistance to adverse conditions.
Potassium salt or potassium sulfate are the best options for July feeding. These elements should be added to the soil or used as solutions for root watering.
Organic Fertilizers: Natural Power for Your Potatoes
Organic fertilizers such as compost, humus or manure provide plants with all the necessary nutrients and improve the soil structure.
In July, it is especially useful to use liquid organic fertilizers. An infusion of chicken manure or mullein, diluted in a 1:10 ratio with water, serves as an excellent source of nutrition for potatoes.
Organic fertilizers not only supply plants with nutrients, but also activate soil microflora.
Micronutrients: Small doses with big effect
For full development, potatoes need not only macroelements, but also microelements, such as boron, manganese and zinc.
Their deficiency can cause various physiological disorders and reduce crop yields.
Use special complex fertilizers containing microelements, or prepare solutions from microelement fertilizers.
It is important to apply such foliar feeding so that the microelements are absorbed more quickly by the plants.
Fertilizer application: basic rules
When applying fertilizer in July, there are a few key rules to keep in mind.
First, fertilizers should be applied to moist soil to avoid root burns.
Secondly, fertilizing should be done in the evening or morning, when the sun is not too active. This allows plants to better absorb nutrients and prevents them from evaporating.
It is also important to distribute fertilizers evenly over the entire planting area so that all plants receive the necessary nutrition.
Watering and fertilizing: the perfect combination
Proper watering enhances the effect of fertilizing. In July, the soil often dries out, which negatively affects the absorption of nutrients.
Regular watering helps maintain optimal soil moisture.
It is best to use a drip irrigation method, which provides uniform moisture and allows nutrients to penetrate directly to the roots of plants.
Watering and fertilizing should go hand in hand for best results.
Protection from pests and diseases
July is a month of active growth and development not only for potatoes, but also for their enemies.
Pests and diseases can significantly reduce crop yields, so it is important to combine fertilizing with preventive measures.
Treat plants with biological or chemical pest control agents depending on the extent of damage.
Inspect your plantings regularly and remove damaged plants to prevent the spread of diseases.
Earlier we told you what you need to give zucchini during flowering and fruit setting to get a gigantic harvest.
