Response of Grand Nain Banana Plants to Different Potassium Fertilizer Sources استجابة نباتات الموز جراندنان لمصادر مختلفة من التسميد البوتاسي

Abstract

Finding a rich and natural source of potassium nutrient is a major challenge facing banana cultivation. In this study, four different sources of Potassium: potassium sulphate, slow release (feldspar), bio-fertilizer (yeast & potassin) and potassium thiosulphate were used to evaluate their effects on growth & fruit production of Grand Nain banana cultivar grown at Luxor Governorate condition, Egypt. The results indicated that using yeast or feldspar alone or in combination as a source of potassium and potassin significantly increased all growth aspects, yield and fruit quality compared to fertilize by potassium sulphate (check treatment); Moreover, there were insignificant differences in these studied traits due to fertilize with yeast, feldspar alone or in combination as well as spraying potassium thiosulphate or potassin. Using yeast or feldspar plus yeast were very effective in enhancing all growth aspects, yield, bunch traits and fruit characteristics compared to untreated ones; So, it is evident from the foregoing result that using feldspar or yeast alone or in combination improved the growth, nutritional status and fruiting of Grand Nain banana plants;. In addition, they are beneficial in organic farming production since they improve the soil structure and fertility; also, reduce the cost of production and environmental pollution.