Definition

Potassium (K) is an essential plant nutrient, second only to nitrogen in terms of the quantity absorbed by crops. It plays a critical role in moisture regulation and plant metabolism, making it indispensable for healthy growth.

Importance

A deficiency in potassium directly limits crop growth and productivity. Potassium improves:

• Water balance within plant cells
• Enzyme activation for metabolic processes
• Stress tolerance against drought, frost, and disease

Grass and alfalfa are particularly rich in potassium and highly sensitive to its availability. Maize and by-products such as CCM, pressed beet pulp, and brewer grains contain significantly lower potassium levels.

Potassium content in common forages

(Eurofins Agro data, 2009–2013)

Challenges in potassium availability

Potassium is prone to leaching, especially in lighter soils. Its availability is declining in many regions due to:

• Reduced manure application (tightening fertilisation rules)
• Lower potassium content in manure

Additional fertilisation

Supplementing potassium (usually as K₂O, potash) can:

• Increase crop yield and quality
• Reduce susceptibility to drought, frost, and fungal infections
• Improve shelf life of harvested crops

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