Potassium and Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE)

Balanced fertilization with K is an immediate, low-cost tool to achieve higher NUE. A gain of 20% in NUE can be
immediately achieved via balanced fertilization with K. Adequate K supply increases both N absorption and the
conversion to amino acids and protein in plants, thus improving yield. Balanced fertilization with K increases crop
yields and profits while enhancing NUE, for the protection of the environment.

Increase in NUE achieved in IPI on-farm experiments

Use of potassium
improves NUE by

20%
India China Hungary
6-29% 2-26% 10-30%

Use of potassium Use of potassium Use of potassium

improves yield and improves tolerance to improves food
quality of crops by pests and disease by security by
20% 30-100% 20%

Balanced N & K = high NUE Imbalanced N & K = low NUE

protein protein
More NO3
conversion to Less NO3
protein conversion
to protein

Less NO3 More NO3

accumulation accumulation
in leaves in leaves

K+
-
Nitrate (NO3 )
More NO3 uptake Less NO3 uptake Amino acids

Contamination of ground water by NO3

NO3 leaching

IPI is a non-governmental and non-profit organisation with its headquarters in Horgen, Switzerland. Founded in 1952 by German and French potash producers, it is now supported by
producers in Europe and the Near East. IPI carries out the major part of its work through a network of coordinators that work closely with researchers, government offices, extension and
agribusiness. IPI’s mission is to develop and promote balanced fertilization for the production of higher yields and more nutritious food, together with ensuring sustainability of production
through conservation of soil fertility for future generations.

www.ipipotash.org