1、Revisiting potassium

Potassium-induced benefits on crop yield and soil fertility are dependent on availability of soil indigenous K supply across wheat, maize, and rice production systems. To optimize K fertilization management, K fertilization should be prioritized for wheat and maize but not for rice.

2、Potassium in agriculture – Status and perspectives

In this review we summarize factors determining the plant availability of soil potassium (K), the role of K in crop yield formation and product quality, and the dependence of crop stress resistance on K nutrition. Average soil reserves of K are generally large, but most of it is not plant-available.

3、Links between potassium of soil aggregates and pH levels in acidic

Soil pH adjusted by the application of lime can improve soil potassium (K) availability to meet crop K uptake in acidic red soil. However, the response of aggregated K to pH changes is poorly understood.

4、How does potassium fertilizer work in acidic soils?

When the soil is acidic, it can have a significant impact on plant growth and nutrient availability. One of the main issues with acidic soils is that they can reduce the availability of essential nutrients to plants. Many nutrients, including potassium, are less soluble in acidic conditions.

The links between potassium availability and soil

We analyzed the relationship between K availability and soil exchangeable cations after lime application in soils that had become acidic due to the long-term inappropriate use of chemical fertilizers in an effort to discover useful information for the amelioration of agricultural acidified soil.

Recent advances in the chemistry of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium

The intense cultivation of crops has resulted in the depletion of available nutrients from soil, thereby demanding the application of excess nutrients to soil to improve yield. Thus, mineral fertilizer discovery and application have, in many ways, contributed greatly to meeting global food demands.

Soil potassium regulation by initial K level and acidification degree

Potassium (K) is the most commonly neglected macronutrient in global change, especially in acidified areas. Lime is a typical management to eliminate soil acidification in agroecosystem soils; however, its impact on soil K dynamics remains inconsistent under different acidic environments.

(PDF) Fertilizer Use and Soil Acidity

Abstract and Figures soil fertility and the uses of fertilizer on acidity is explained. Soil acidity and nitrogen fertilizers (modified from (Davidson 1987)).

(PDF) Effects of Agricultural Potassium Fertilizer Application on Soil

This review examines the impact and regulatory mechanisms of potassium fertilizer on the soil carbon cycle, discussing how potassium fertilizer affects soil carbon storage and flow...

Fertilizers and Soil Acidity

In high rainfall environments, leaching slowly acidifies soil over time. Intensive agriculture can speed up soil acidification through many processes.

The primary reasons for using potassium fertilizers in acidic soils of southern regions are as follows:

1. Soil pH Balance: Soils in southern China are mostly acidic, with a pH typically ranging from 4.5 to 6.5. Potassium fertilizers help raise soil pH by neutralizing acidic substances, making the soil more alkaline and creating a healthier environment for plant growth.

2. Role of Potassium: Potassium is an essential nutrient for plants. It enhances photosynthesis, improves stress resistance, and boosts growth vitality. Additionally, it regulates water balance within plants, increasing drought tolerance.

3. Application Methods: When applying potassium fertilizers in acidic soils, attention must be paid to dosage and method. Generally, 5-10 kilograms of potassium fertilizer per mu (0.067 hectares) is recommended. Ensure even distribution to avoid overuse, which can lead to soil salinization. Coordinate potassium use with nitrogen, phosphorus, and other fertilizers for optimal results.

4. Fertilizer Selection: Choose potassium varieties based on soil conditions and crop needs. Common options include potassium sulfate, potassium chloride, and potassium nitrate. Potassium sulfate is preferred due to its high solubility, efficient absorption, and strong stimulating effect on crop growth, making it ideal for acidic soils.

5. Timing of Use: Applying potassium at critical growth stages—such as early growth (seedling stage) or peak periods (flowering stage)—maximizes its benefits. This timing improves photosynthetic efficiency, promotes robust growth, and increases yields.

6. Utilization Strategies: Apply potassium as a base fertilizer to improve soil pH effectively, or as a topdressing fertilizer to address crop nutritional needs during growth. Combine it with other fertilizers to achieve synergistic effects.

7. Environmental Considerations: Excessive potassium use can cause soil salinization, harming soil structure and function. Adhere to moderate application principles. Opt for environmentally friendly products to minimize ecological impact from production and transportation.

8. Economic Benefits: Proper potassium use boosts crop yield and quality, enhancing farmers’ income. Prioritizing potassium fertilization contributes to sustainable agricultural productivity.

Using potassium fertilizers in southern acidic soils aims to balance soil pH, promote plant health, and improve crop quality. To achieve sustainable agriculture, apply potassium judiciously, select appropriate formulations, integrate with other nutrients, and prioritize environmental protection.