POTATO TUBER YIELD AND QUALITY AS AFFECTED BY RATES AND SOURCES OF POTASSIUM FERTILIZER

Among the major nutrients, potassium (K) not only improves yields but also improves quality parameters. Field experiments were conducted to assess the comparative effect of sources and rates of K fertilizer on potato yield and quality on a sandy loam soil. Graded doses of potassium, i.e., 0, 150 and 225 kg ha(-1) K2O from sulfate and muriate of potash were applied in triplicate. Recommended dose of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) applied uniformly. Significant increase in tuber yield was observed with 150 kg ha(-1) K2O from both the sources over control. Increase in tuber yield with 225 kg ha(-1) K2O was statistically non significant compared to 150 kg ha(-1). The dry matter and specific gravity were more affected with sulfate of potash (SOP) than muriate of potash (MOP). The quality parameters like dry matter, specific gravity, starch contents, vitamin C, chips color and taste were improved with K application.