Potato yield response to foliar application of phosphorus as affected by soil moisture and available soil phosphorus
Ekelof, J. E.; Asp, H.; Jensen, E. S.
Acta Agriculturae Scandinavica Section B-Soil and Plant Science 62(7): 637-643
2012
ISSN/ISBN: 0906-4710
DOI: 10.1080/09064710.2012.684886
Accession: 066265055
Foliar application of phosphorus (P) may be a supplementary treatment to sustain adequate P-status of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). However, the prediction of the potential benefits of foliar P supply is difficult, since several factors, such as weather conditions and plant P-status influence the effects. We determined the impact of soil moisture and soil P-supply on the responsiveness to foliar P-application under controlled environmental conditions. Plant dry matter yields, P-accumulation and phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) with or without foliar application were determined at five soil P-levels in combination with two soil moisture levels. The results suggest that water status is of importance for the responsiveness to foliar P-application and may be related to diffusion of P through the leaf cells, which require a good water status. The PUE was significantly improved with irrigation while adding P to the soil decreased the PUE.