1、Effect of foliar application of potassium fertilizers on soybean plants
The research objective of this study was to investigate the effect of foliar application of potassium chloride and potassium sulfate fertilizers at the early growth stage of soybean under medium (6 dS/m) and high (12 dS/m) salinity stresses.
2、Effects of Foliar Fertilization: a Review of Current Status and Future
First, nutrient elements can be absorbed directly through the leaves and transported to other organs (Gao et al. 2018), thereby replenishing essential nutrients more quickly and efficiently compared with soil fertilization.
3、Foliar Feeding with Potassium: When and How
Foliar feeding with potassium offers a rapid and effective method to supplement this critical nutrient directly to plant leaves, improving plant health, yield, and stress resistance. This article delves into the timing, methods, benefits, and best practices of foliar feeding with potassium.
Colonic Potassium Absorption and Secretion in Health and Disease
Of the average total dietary K + intake in humans (~90 mEq), 90% is absorbed and only 10% is excreted in the feces (44, 133). Like the kidney, the colon has capacities for both K + absorption and K + secretion.
Selecting the Right Source of Potassium Fertilizer
Not all fluids are compatible. Test a small batch first to avoid precipitation.
Potassium in plant physiological adaptation to abiotic stresses
We discuss the effects of K + on several physiological functions and the interaction of K + with other nutrients to improve plant potential against abiotic stress-induced adverse consequences.
Why potassium chloride isn't good for your crops
Fertilizers containing potassium (K) are often used to compensate for plant deficits. Farmers must supplement this crucial plant nutrient when soils are unable to give the amount of K required by crops. Potash is so called the number of K-containing agricultural fertilizers.
Understanding Potassium Chloride Fertilizer Rates
Potassium is highly soluble, which makes potassium chloride an effective quick-release fertilizer. It’s also worth noting that it contains about 60% potassium by weight.
Potassium Control of Plant Functions: Ecological and Agricultural
Over the last two decades, many studies have reported on the role of K + in several physiological functions, including controlling cellular growth and wood formation, xylem–phloem water content and movement, nutrient and metabolite transport, and stress responses.
Inputs: Potassium Sources for Agricultural Systems
For both sources, K deposited on both soil and foliage are considered. It is well documented that atmospheric transport takes place at very large scales (e.g., from Africa to South America; Prospero et al. 2014). However only a few studies have mapped K deposition at these large scales.
Potassium chloride (KCl), a commonly used foliar fertilizer, is characterized by rapid absorption and high efficiency. The following is a detailed analysis of its absorption rate when applied as a foliar spray:
1. Chemical Properties of Potassium Chloride
Potassium chloride is an inorganic salt-based fertilizer with potassium chloride (KCl) as its primary component. It has high water solubility, stability, and bioactivity, making it widely applicable for foliar fertilization in agriculture.
2. Absorption Pathways of Potassium Chloride
Potassium chloride enters plants primarily through leaf stomata. After spraying, water evaporates rapidly, leaving KCl particles attached to the leaf surface. As evaporation continues, these particles are absorbed through the stomata into the plant. Thus, absorption depends largely on stomatal uptake.
3. Absorption Speed of Potassium Chloride
Due to its reliance on stomata, KCl absorption is relatively fast. Rapid water evaporation after spraying accelerates particle uptake. Additionally, KCl’s strong penetration ability allows it to pass through thicker leaf tissues, further enhancing absorption speed.
4. Absorption Efficiency of Potassium Chloride
Efficiency depends on factors like soil pH, temperature, and light. Generally, KCl is highly efficient, especially under drought conditions, where it effectively meets plants’ potassium needs. excessive concentrations may toxicity plants, inhibiting growth. Dosage should be adjusted based on soil conditions and crop requirements.
5. Comparison with Other Foliar Fertilizers
Besides KCl, other foliar fertilizers include:
- Potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH₂PO₄): Fast absorption but lower efficiency.
- Urea (NH₂CONH₃): Slower absorption but rich in nitrogen, promoting growth.
- Micronutrient fertilizers: Boric acid (H₃BO₃), ammonium molybdate ((NH₄)₆Mo₇O₂₄·4H₂O), and zinc sulfate (ZnSO₄·7H₂O) also provide specific benefits.
6. Application Recommendations for Potassium Chloride
When using KCl as a foliar fertilizer:
- a. Control dosage: Excessive use may cause leaf burning or growth retardation.
- b. Avoid alkaline mixtures: KCl’s acidity can react with alkaline substances, reducing efficacy.
- c. Ensure safety: Avoid skin/eye contact and store in cool, shaded areas away from direct sunlight.
Potassium chloride absorbs quickly and efficiently as a foliar fertilizer. To maximize its benefits, apply scientifically by controlling dosage, avoiding alkaline combinations, and following safety protocols. Proper use promotes healthy plant growth.

