Effect of interactions of different levels of soil moisture and potassium on the dry matter production and potassium uptake byHordeum vulgare (barley) in different soils

Abstract

The highest shoot dry matter production by barley crop was recorded in the highest soil moisture level when no potassium was applied. But in lower soil moisture levels the potassium application showed response. In these soils the potassium use efficiency of the crop was found to increase with increasing soil moisture levels, but to decrease with the application of potassium. As these soils contain a lot of micaceous minearals a considerable amount of potassium is released during crop growth if sufficient soil moisture is provided. In addition to the released potassium, potassium applied through fertilizers reduces yield.