Nigerfine3:
Interesting read thank you.

Deo1986:
Thank you very much for this eye-opening info!

I intends to begin flour and starch production. My question is what specie do i go for?

olushowunm:

Cassava as we know it today is an industrial crop with potential to create massive wealth for us here in Nigeria. However, production of cassava in this sphere is still been challenged by low yield which is caused by myriad of factors such as low soil fertility, pests and diseases, and climate variability. One of the key factor that affects cassava yield is what I called "K factor".

Potassium (K) is one of the three essential macronutrients that cassava requires for healthy growth and development and it's mostly ignored by farmers (both old and new generation ones). In fact It plays a critical role in many of its physiological processes, such as water and nutrient uptake, photosynthesis, and protein synthesis. In Thailand, they put careful planning into their cassava production and thus they achieve about 60 to 80 tons per hectare yield on most of their variety.

In cassava, "K" is particularly important for root growth and development, as well as for starch accumulation in cassava roots.

The "K factor" in cassava production refers to the level of available potassium in the soil, which can influence plant growth, yield, and quality. When "K" is deficient, cassava plants may exhibit symptoms such as stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and low root yield. On the other hand, when "K" is sufficiently available, cassava plants can produce larger and healthier roots, with higher starch content and better resistance to pests and diseases.

Several factors can affect the availability of "K" in the soil, including soil texture, pH, organic matter content, and soil moisture. Sandy soils, for example, tend to have lower "K" retention capacity than clay soils, which can result in leaching of K and reduced plant uptake. Similarly, acidic soils with pH below 5.5 may have low K availability, as "K" ions are more likely to be bound to soil particles or lost through erosion. High levels of soil organic matter and good soil moisture can help improve "K" availability, as they promote K release from organic matter decomposition and mineral weathering.

"K" deficiency can have a significant economic impact on cassava production. The cost of "K" deficiency in cassava production can be seen in several ways. First, K deficiency can lead to a reduction in cassava yield. The yield losses can range from 10-60%, depending on the severity of "K" deficiency, soil type, and other environmental factors. For example an hectare of cassava farm that is to yield average of 30 tons is already reduced to about 15tons if 50% case of "K" deficiency is present, which means if cassava is to be sold at N30,000 per ton You will have lost N450,000 on each hectare of cassava planted. The lower yield will result in reduced income for farmers as stated above, and it can also contribute to food insecurity in the country.

Second, "K" deficiency can also impact the quality of cassava roots. Cassava roots with low "K" content may have lower starch content, making them less desirable for processing into food products such as cassava flour, starch, or chips. This can reduce the market value of cassava and result in lower prices for farmers.

Third, "K" deficiency can increase the susceptibility of cassava plants to pests and diseases, such as cassava mosaic disease, cassava brown streak disease, and mealybugs. The pest and disease infestation can further reduce cassava yields and quality, resulting in additional economic losses for farmers.

Overall, the cost of "K" deficiency in cassava production can be significant, with estimates suggesting losses of up to 60% of potential yield.

To ensure optimal "K" levels in cassava production, farmers can adopt several strategies, including soil testing, fertilizer application, and crop rotation. Soil testing is the first step in determining the overall status of the soil, measuring the macronutrients and micronutrients levels, which will allow determine the appropriate fertilizer rate. Depending on the soil test results, farmers may need to apply K fertilizer in the form of potassium chloride (KCl) and potassium sulfate (K2SO4) popularly called Muriate of Potash (MOP) in Nigeria, or other K-containing fertilizers like NPK 15-15-15 or NPK 20-10-10. Though "K" blend in this is minimal. It is also important to note that excessive K application can lead to nutrient imbalances, as well as environmental pollution from fertilizer runoff due to erosion.

Crop rotation can also help improve "K" availability in the soil, as different crops have varying "K" requirements and uptake patterns. Legume crops, for example, can fix atmospheric nitrogen and improve soil fertility, which can benefit cassava growth and yield. Additionally, intercropping cassava with legumes or other crops can help reduce soil erosion and enhance nutrient cycling, as well as provide diversification and risk management for farmers.

The timing of potassium (K) application to cassava can have a significant impact on crop yield and quality. In general, "K" fertilizer should be applied at different growth stages of the cassava plant to ensure optimal nutrient uptake and utilization.

The first application of "K" fertilizer is typically recommended at planting or shortly after planting. This helps to provide a sufficient supply of K to support early root and shoot growth and development. The amount of "K" fertilizer applied at planting may vary depending on soil test results and the specific nutrient requirements of the cassava variety being grown.

The second application of "K" fertilizer is usually done around 2 to 3 months after planting, when the cassava plants have reached the vegetative growth stage. At this stage, cassava plants require a significant amount of K for the formation and development of tuberous roots. A split application approach, where K fertilizer is applied in two or more applications, is often recommended to ensure a consistent supply of K throughout the growing season.

The final application of K fertilizer may be done during the early stages of root maturity, typically around 6-7months after planting. This helps to ensure that the cassava plants have sufficient K reserves to support the final stages of root growth and starch accumulation.

It is important to note that the timing and rate of "K" fertilizer application may vary depending on the soil type, climatic conditions, and cassava variety being grown. Therefore, farmers are encouraged to consult with agronomists for specific recommendations on K fertilizer management practices that are appropriate for their climatic and farming conditions.


In conclusion, it is clear that "K factor" is a critical component of cassava production, as it affects its growth, yield, and quality. Applying "K" fertilizer at the right time and rate is crucial for optimal cassava growth, development, and yield. By adopting appropriate K management practices, farmers can ensure a sufficient supply of K to support the growth and development of cassava plants throughout the growing season, resulting in higher yields and better quality roots
By ensuring optimal "K" levels in cassava production, farmers can increase their yields and incomes, while also contributing to food security and sustainable agriculture.


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