A Review on Responses of Potato to Macro and Micro Fertilizers Application

Abstract

Potato was considered as food security crop in Ethiopia because of its high yielding potential, high nutritional quality, short growing period and wider adaptability. In area coverage, it is second widely grown crop next to 'Enset' (Ensete ventricosum L.). Its production is affected by many factors. Among these factors, optimum fertilizer application is the main factor degrading the productivity of the crop. Achieving optimum fertilizer application depends on the climate, soil, variety and availability of the water. This review was aimed to access all available fertilizer trials to point out the types of fertilizers soil is deficient in relation to potato crop response and needed additional application during production cycles for boosting yield. Almost all soil of arable lands of Ethiopia was deficient in nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and sulfur(S). In addition, a larger part of arable land was deficient in N, P, S, and boron (B). Some lands' soils require addition of either of potassium or Zinc other time both. Potato is requiring both macro and micro elements for high yield and better quality product. It is concluded that, most reviewed sources indicate that there was less recommendation concerning micro and macro elements for potato in the country in relation to the variable ecology of the country owned.