Complex fertilizer “Ferti M”

Potassium regulates transpiration and contributes to a more economical use of water by plants. With potassium deficiency, the functions of the leaf stomata are reduced and water losses through transpiration are uncontrolled. Conversely, in the presence of sufficient potassium, the stomata function well and control transpiration so that it is adequate to the water intake. Potassium and magnesium also help to form a larger root system by facilitating the movement of carbohydrates from the above-ground mass to the roots, which makes it possible to exploit a larger volume of soil. Potassium increases the water-holding capacity of the soil. Regular application of potassium fertilizers has a positive effect on the water-holding capacity of the soil, which is largely determined by the distribution of pores of different sizes. Medium-sized pores are especially important in this regard. Potassium aids in the formation of "bridges" (potassium in clay minerals), dividing large pores into medium-sized pores that are more effective at retaining water in the root-inhabited soil layer. This is a specific effect of potassium.

Potassium and magnesium alleviate the negative effect of increased soil acidity . It affects the nutrition of plants as at pH below 4 - 4.5 the growth of the roots is directly hindered by the toxic hydrogen cations. Potassium and especially magnesium reduce the toxicity of manganese and aluminum in acidic soils, the uptake of which in plants decreases as a result of the antagonistic relationship.

Almost all abiotic and some biotic stresses threatening the efficient production of plant products can be mitigated by sufficient supply of K and Mg. In the future, periods of stress caused by one or more factors will increase as a result of climate change. We need to be aware of these threats and when managing crop fertilization we need to consider the role of balanced nutrition and in particular potassium and magnesium in alleviating stress conditions.