Potato Nitrogen Management

Abstract

ABSTRACT Management of nitrogen (N) fertilization, in terms of rate, timing, and method of application, influence the yield and quality of potatoes. Optimal management of N and irrigation is important to improve N uptake efficiency, and minimize N losses while maintaining high yields and quality. Management of these inputs becomes a challenge in sandy soils, which are vulnerable for leaching of water and soluble nutrients. Real-time continuous monitoring of soil water within and below the rootzone is important to improve scheduling of irrigation to ensure adequate supply of water for plant growth and tuber production, without the risk of excessive leaching of water below the rootzone, which can contribute to leaching of soluble nutrients. Field studies conducted at various production regions show that a combination of pre-plant and in-season N application is necessary to increase N uptake efficiency, and produce high yields of high quality potatoes. The rates and timing of application of pre-plant and in-season N appeared to vary to some extent in different production regions. Excessive N applications contribute to excess vine growth at the expense of the tuber production. The production conditions must be favorable for translocation of N from vines to the tubers. Maintaining adequate supply of N availability in the soil is particularly important through the tuber bulking stage.