Authors : E.N. Nwaogu and U.J. Ukpabi
Abstract: Varying levels of potassium (K) fertilizer (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 kg K ha-1), with basal application of Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus (P) were used to determine the effect of adequate K nutrition on the field performance and post harvest characteristics of three elite Indian ginger cultivars (Maran, Wynad local and Himachel Pradesh) in Abia State, Nigeria. The results showed that in terms of ginger plant height, fresh rhizome yield and rhizome storability, the non-split application of 50 kg ha-1 (with 60 kg ha-1 N, 15 kg ha-1 P) during planting gave the optimum positive effect in the 2 years trial (2006-2007). However, the application of K at ≥50 kg ha-1 is required for a significant suppression (p≥0.05) of the ginger yellow leaf spot disease amongst the experimental cultivars. Field application of the 50 kg K ha-1 also gave ≥80% wholesome (unrotten) rhizomes at 6 months of storage.
E.N. Nwaogu and U.J. Ukpabi, 2010. Potassium Fertilization Effects on the Field Performances and Post-Harvest Characteristics of Imported Indian Ginger Cultivars in Abia State, Nigeria. Agricultural Journal, 5: 31-36.