Nutrient Management Research Database
General Information
Research Title
Managing potassium for organic crop production
Link to File
Research Specifications
Crop:
Soil Type:
Country: United States
Year: 2008
Authors
Robert Mikkelsen
Summary/Abstract from Original Source
An adequate K supply is essential for both organic and conventional crop production. Potassium is involved in many plant physiological reactions, including osmoregulation, protein synthesis, enzyme activation, and photosynthate translocation. The K balance on many farms is negative, where more K is removed in harvested crops than is returned again to the soil. An overview of commonly used K fertilizers for organic production is provided.
Research Highlights
Design and Methods
Results
This paper includes sections on:
- Organic crop production
- Which organic standards to follow
- Using on-farm resources
- Potassium balance
- Potassium release from soil minerals
- Potassium sources for organic production
- Approved and restricted potassium sources including:
- Greensand
- Langbeinite
- Manure and compost
- Potassium Sulfate
- Rock powders
- Seaweed
- Sylvinite
- Wood ash