15 August 2023
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Fertilisers rich in three vital minerals enhance yields, new Egyptian study finds.
FINDINGS from a new study have confirmed that the application of fertilisers rich in calcium, magnesium and zinc vastly improved the growth of potatoes and other tubers, particularly in newly-reclaimed soil, on the African continent.
Conducted by Egypt’s Mansoura University, the research was published in the Journal of Plant Production, an Egypt Scientific Magazine.
The research was done by a team of scientists from Egypt’s Mansoura University, who tested the effects of BRANDT Manni-Plex Ca-Mag and BRANDT Manni-Plex Ca-Zn on potato growth and productivity.
The study found that the foliar application of calcium- and magnesium-rich fertilisers – especially in newly-reclaimed soil – greatly enhanced the size of potato yields. According to the study’s findings, improvements were seen in terms of both number and weight.
The team's leader, M.K.F. El- Tawashy, said: “The study highlights the importance of using the right fertilisers and application methods which can help farmers reduce costs associated with inefficient fertilization techniques.”
According to the study’s findings, the foliar application of BRANDT Manni-Plex Ca-Zn and BRANDT Manni-Plex Ca-Mag to potato plants increased both dry weight and leaf-nutrient accumulation. This, M.K.F. El- Tawashy explained, may be related to the minerals’ functions on potato plants.
“Further studies on potatoes – along with other strategic crops – are still needed to determine the precise correlation between Calcium, Magnesium and Zinc applications and specific environmental factors,” she said.
The research also found that the mineral-rich fertilisers stimulate plant growth, enhancing the size and total number of leaves. It also found that these three vital minerals serve to boost overall chlorophyll content.
“Our findings highlight the importance of using high-quality fertilisers and the potential benefits of foliar application,” M.K.F. El- Tawashy said. “This will no doubt help farmers all over the world improve the marketability of their produce.”
By improving fertilisation practices, growers can also reduce the risk of crop failure and enhance overall sustainability of their operations, the research team leader said. Greater long-term profitability will then be achievable
The research team plans to continue its work and explore potential benefits of other fertilisers and application methods.
Source: African Business Photo: Javier Albuja
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