Since potassium uptake depends primarily on root interception, placement of potassium fertilizers with or near the seed is usually the most effective method of application provided the rate of application is not greater than the seed can tolerate. If too much potassium or other fertilizer is placed with the seed, germination and emergence may be delayed or reduced.
a. Side-band: Placement is an efficient means of applying potassium. In this placement, the fertilizer is in a band approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) to the side and 2.5 cm (1 inch) beneath the seed. This separation of fertilizer and seed reduces the possible detrimental effects on germination when high rates are applied. Machinery for placing seed and fertilizer in this configuration is not readily available commercially, and the method is not widely racticed.
b. Banding: Also referred as deep-banding of potassium into the soil prior to seeding has, to date, not received a great deal of research attention, but there is no reason to believe that this should not be a good method of applying potassium fertilizer.
c. Broadcasting: Potassium before seeding is less efficient than applying potassium in a band with or near the seed. The major role for broadcast applications of potassium fertilizer will be in “building up” soils extremely deficient in potassium.
Perennial Crops
For perennial forage crops, potassium is best applied by broadcasting and incorporating before seeding. This approach will overcome the problem of limited movement of potassium into the soil when applications are made after stand establishment.
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