A new study has found that the application of fertilizers rich in calcium, magnesium and zinc can vastly improve the growth of potatoes as well as other tubers. Conducted by Egypt’s Mansoura University (www.Mans.edu.eg), the groundbreaking research was published this month in the Journal of Plant Production, an Egypt Scientific Magazine.
“These findings provide valuable insights, especially for potato farmers looking to optimize their crop yields,” M.K.F. El- Tawashy, who headed the research team, said.
“We hope our research will contribute to the development of more effective fertilization strategies for potato production, which can benefit the agricultural industry as a whole,” s/he added.
Better quality, better quantity
The research was done by a team of scientists from Egypt’s Mansoura University, who tested the effects of BRANDT Manni-Plex Ca-Mag and BRANDT Manni-Plex Ca-Zn on potato growth and productivity.
The study found that the foliar application of calcium- and magnesium-rich fertilizers – especially in newly reclaimed soil – greatly enhanced the size of potato yields. According to the study’s findings, improvements were seen in terms of both number and weight.
“This can lead to increased profitability by enhancing both the quantity and quality of the potatoes, which can then be sold at higher prices,” M.K.F. El- Tawashy said.
“The study highlights the importance of using the right fertilizers and application methods,” s/he added, “which can help farmers reduce costs associated with inefficient fertilization techniques.”
Enhancing marketability
According to the study’s findings, the foliar application of BRANDT Manni-Plex Ca-Zn and BRANDT Manni-Plex Ca-Mag to potato plants increased both dry weight and leaf-nutrient accumulation. This, M.K.F. El- Tawashy explained, may be related to the minerals’ functions on potato plants.
“Further studies on potatoes – along with other strategic crops – are still needed to determine the precise correlation between Calcium, Magnesium and Zinc applications and specific environmental factors,” s/he said.
The research also found that these mineral-rich fertilizers stimulate plant growth, thus enhancing the size and total number of leaves. It also found that these three vital minerals serve to boost overall chlorophyll content.
“Our findings highlight the importance of using high-quality fertilizers and the potential benefits of foliar application,” M.K.F. El- Tawashy said. “This will no doubt help farmers all over the world improve the marketability of their produce.”
Fighting world hunger
The study’s findings are a significant step forward in the development of more effective and sustainable fertilization strategies for potato production.
“By improving their fertilization practices, farmers can also reduce the risk of crop failure and enhance the overall sustainability of their operations,” M.K.F. El- Tawashy said. “This, in turn, will help them achieve greater profitability in the long term.”
M.K.F. El- Tawashy and her/his research team plan to continue their work and explore the potential benefits of other fertilizers and application methods.
“The potato industry is a major contributor to the global agricultural sector,” s/he explained. “Our most recent findings could have serious implications for the ongoing quest to combat world hunger.”
