Potassium (K) - soil and crop

Potassium is essential for moisture management and plant metabolism and is the mineral absorbed in the second largest quantities, after nitrogen. A potassium deficiency therefore directly inhibits crop growth. Grass and alfalfa in particular contain relatively high levels of potassium and are sensitive to this. Maize contains much less potassium, as do CCM, pressed beet pulp and brewer grains.

Potassium content (g/kg dm); Eurofins Agro 2009-2013
  Fresh grass Grass silage Maize silage Lucerne
Average 34 33 11 29
Target range 25-35 25-35 10-14 25-35

 

Additional fertilization with potassium
Potassium can leach out quite easily, especially on lighter soils. The amount of potassium in the soil that is available to the crop is decreasing in several region because less manure is applied each year (due to tightening fertilization rules), as well as the fact that the average potassium content in manure is decreasing. It is therefore important to use the Fertilization Manager from Eurofins Agro to assess whether your crop needs an extra dose of potassium. Additional fertilization with potassium (in the form of K2O; potash) generally has a positive impact on crop yield and quality by reducing the susceptibility of crops to drought, frost and fungi and improving shelf life.
 

Ration Check

Fertilization Manager