Potash and oilseeds, a story for Pakistan?

Versatile, capable K

Contrasts in efficiency

Cotton in Middle Asia looks for Potash

Potash and oilseeds, a story for Pakistan?

Although oilseeds are currently of minor importance in Pakistan, having only a 2.4% share of the crop spectrum, it is probable that domestic production will have to increase to meet future demand. There is certainly potential for improving yields from oilseeds. Over the last decade, yields in Pakistan have improved by only 20%, compared to an improvement of twice that amount achieved by India.

Effect of potash on yield, quality
and economy of mustard
Results from IPI sponsored on-farm trials West Bengal, India
Effect of potash on yield, quality and economy of mustard
kg/ha K20 *elemental S
**S from SOP
seed yield oil yield net income
seed yield oil yield net income
from Bogdevitch, 1998

The results from IPI sponsored on-farm trials in India prove the essential role that potassium plays in achieving economically sound, high yields in oilseeds, irrespective of the crop type. Supplementing the use of NPK with S results in additional yield. This reflects the S requirement of cruciferous crops. It also indicates the need for S in intensive crop rotations, especially when the whole crop is removed without recycling of plant residues as is common practice in much of the sub-continent.