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Studies on fertilization of field-grown irrigated alfalfa

I. Effect of potassium source and time of application

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Abstract

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) yields of 20–25 ton/ha are obtainable in a Mediterranean climate, with 8–9 harvests each year. These high yields demand a large supply of potassium from the soil. Plant uptake of potassium reached 540 kg K ha, the majority being derived from the exchangeable form. A safety level of 2.5% K in the whole plant is needed to prevent yield declines. Fertilization with potassium chloride gave higher yields than with potassium sulfate. Splitting the K application over period of two cuts is recommended for sandy loam soils with a low cation exchange capacity.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Div. of Soil Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, ARO, The Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel

    U. Kafkafi (Head)

  2. Soil and Plant Laboratories, Ministry of Agriculture, Hefer Valley

    D. Yoles (Chemist and Head) & Y. Noy (Chemist and Head)

Authors
  1. U. Kafkafi
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  2. D. Yoles
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  3. Y. Noy
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Additional information

Contribution from the Agricultura Research Organization, The Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel. 1975 Series, No.186-E.

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Kafkafi, U., Yoles, D. & Noy, Y. Studies on fertilization of field-grown irrigated alfalfa. Plant Soil 46, 165–173 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00693123

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00693123

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