Nitrogen deficiency in potato

Nitrogen promotes high yields and ensures vegetative growth of the crop, playing a key role in synthesis of proteins which are directly involved in growth and yield. 
Nitrogen deficiency can be easily recognized by the pale green color of leaves (general chlorosis). Due to its high mobility in the plant, the old leaves remain yellow while younger ones turn dark. A lack of Nitrogen will directly affect the yield by reducing the number of stems and tubers.

What can I do to prevent Nitrogen deficiency in Potatos?

• Based on soil analyses, crop destination (e.g. seed potato, processing, fresh market) and variety characteristics make sure that you provide the right amount of nutrients to sustain your target yield.
• Use Controlled Release Fertilizers such as Agrocote Max and Agromaster as base fertilizers. Potato crops take up mainly N-NO3 (Nitrate Nitrogen) and N-NH4 (ammonium Nitrogen) which can be lost by leaching or volatilization, especially on light soils with heavy rainfalls. Therefore Agrocote Max or Agromaster will release Nitrogen over a predictable period of time, matching the plant needs, reducing Nitrogen losses and improving the yield. See our trial results.
• Foliar applications are very useful for avoiding simple  Nitrogen deficiency. Agroleaf Power High N can be easily applied 1-2 times promoting vegetative growth and preventing Nitrogen deficiency.
  It is not recommended to use foliar application as a substitution of base fertilizers.

Cristian Filote
International Technical Manager
ICL Specialty Fertilizers 

*Source of photo: IPNI