The Importance of Potassium Fertilizer and Pruning

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 4 views

Enhancing Sweet Potato Cilembu Varieties: The Impact of Potassium Fertilizer and Pruning on Growth and Production

Introduction

Sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) are a staple food in Indonesia, rich in nutritional value and a primary source of carbohydrates for the population. To increase productivity, providing the right potassium fertilizer and pruning techniques is crucial. Potassium fertilizer enhances plant growth and development, particularly in tubers, while pruning reduces non-essential plant parts, allowing more productive parts to develop better. This article explores the effects of potassium fertilizer and pruning on the growth and production of Cilembu varieties of sweet potatoes.

Research Methodology

A research study was conducted at the Vegetable Research Center, Tongkoh Village, Berastagi, Karo Regency, from September 2018 to March 2019. The study employed a random design group (rack) with two treatment factors: the first factor was the KCL dose applied (0; 7; 14; and 21 grams per plant), and the second factor was the type of pruning (without pruning; pruning leaves 3 tendrils; pruning leaving 2 tendrils; and pruning leaves 1 tendril). The variables observed included the length of the main tendrils, the length of the tubers per sample, the dry weight of the canopy per sample, the weight of the tuber per sample, the weight of the tuber per plot, the average weight of the tuber, the number of tubers per sample, and the tuber grading.

Results and Discussion

The administration of potassium fertilizer at a dose of 7 g/plant significantly affected several parameters, including the length of the main tendrils from the third week to the eleventh after planting (MST), the length of the tubers per sample, the weight of the tubers per sample, the weight of the tubers per plot, and Fresh tubers grading class A and C on sweet potato plants. Furthermore, the pruning treatment leaving 2 tendrils was proven to have a positive impact on the length of the main tendrils on the tenth week to the eleventh and the number of tubers per sample. The interaction between the administration of 7 g KCl/plants and pruning leaving 2 tendrils also showed a significant increase in the length of the tendrils, the length of the tubers per sample, the number of tubers per sample, and the weight of the tubers per plot.

The Importance of Potassium Fertilizer and Pruning

Potassium fertilizer plays a crucial role in improving plant health and crop yields. It strengthens cell walls, increasing plant resistance to pests and diseases, and contributes to the process of photosynthesis and facilitates nutritional transportation in plants. By using the right dosage, farmers can maximize their crop yields. Pruning not only increases productivity but also stimulates the growth of new shoots. By leaving tendrils, the energy produced by plants can be more focused on developing larger and quality tubers.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The combination of appropriate potassium fertilizer and wise pruning techniques can be used as guidelines for farmers in increasing the productivity of Sweet Potato Varieties Cilembu. With the right approach, it is expected that sweet potatoes can not only meet local food needs but also increase the economic value for farmers and the surrounding community. This research emphasizes the importance of good agronomic management in sweet potato cultivation to achieve optimal and sustainable results.

Future Research Directions

Future research can focus on exploring the effects of different potassium fertilizer dosages and pruning techniques on various sweet potato varieties. Additionally, investigating the impact of other factors, such as soil type and climate, on sweet potato growth and production can provide valuable insights for farmers and researchers.

References

[Insert references cited in the study]

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of potassium fertilizer and pruning on the growth and production of Cilembu varieties of sweet potatoes. The results showed that the administration of potassium fertilizer at a dose of 7 g/plant significantly affected several parameters, including the length of the main tendrils, the length of the tubers per sample, and the weight of the tubers per plot. The pruning treatment leaving 2 tendrils was also proven to have a positive impact on the length of the main tendrils and the number of tubers per sample. The combination of appropriate potassium fertilizer and wise pruning techniques can be used as guidelines for farmers in increasing the productivity of Sweet Potato Varieties Cilembu.
Frequently Asked Questions: Enhancing Sweet Potato Cilembu Varieties with Potassium Fertilizer and Pruning

Introduction

Sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) are a staple food in Indonesia, rich in nutritional value and a primary source of carbohydrates for the population. To increase productivity, providing the right potassium fertilizer and pruning techniques is crucial. In our previous article, we explored the effects of potassium fertilizer and pruning on the growth and production of Cilembu varieties of sweet potatoes. In this article, we will address some of the frequently asked questions related to this topic.

Q&A

Q: What is the importance of potassium fertilizer in sweet potato cultivation?

A: Potassium fertilizer plays a crucial role in improving plant health and crop yields. It strengthens cell walls, increasing plant resistance to pests and diseases, and contributes to the process of photosynthesis and facilitates nutritional transportation in plants.

Q: How does pruning affect sweet potato growth and production?

A: Pruning not only increases productivity but also stimulates the growth of new shoots. By leaving tendrils, the energy produced by plants can be more focused on developing larger and quality tubers.

Q: What is the optimal dosage of potassium fertilizer for sweet potato cultivation?

A: The optimal dosage of potassium fertilizer for sweet potato cultivation is 7 g/plant. However, it is essential to note that the dosage may vary depending on the specific variety of sweet potato and the soil type.

Q: Can I use other types of fertilizer instead of potassium fertilizer?

A: While other types of fertilizer may provide some benefits, potassium fertilizer is specifically designed to address the nutritional needs of sweet potatoes. Using other types of fertilizer may not provide the same level of benefits.

Q: How often should I prune my sweet potato plants?

A: Pruning should be done regularly to maintain the health and productivity of the plants. It is recommended to prune the plants every 2-3 weeks, depending on the growth rate of the plants.

Q: Can I use pruning techniques on other types of plants besides sweet potatoes?

A: Yes, pruning techniques can be applied to other types of plants besides sweet potatoes. However, the specific pruning techniques and frequency may vary depending on the type of plant.

Q: How can I ensure that my sweet potato plants receive the right amount of potassium fertilizer?

A: To ensure that your sweet potato plants receive the right amount of potassium fertilizer, it is essential to follow the recommended dosage and application schedule. Additionally, it is recommended to consult with a qualified agronomist or gardening expert to determine the specific needs of your plants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, potassium fertilizer and pruning are essential components of sweet potato cultivation. By understanding the importance of these factors and following the recommended guidelines, farmers and gardeners can increase the productivity and quality of their sweet potato crops. We hope that this Q&A article has provided valuable insights and answers to some of the frequently asked questions related to this topic.

References

[Insert references cited in the study]

Abstract

This article addresses some of the frequently asked questions related to the effects of potassium fertilizer and pruning on the growth and production of Cilembu varieties of sweet potatoes. The answers to these questions provide valuable insights and guidelines for farmers and gardeners looking to increase the productivity and quality of their sweet potato crops.