Effects of nitrogen application on potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) yield and soil nitrate dynamics in a sandy loam soil

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) is a crucial nutrient for potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production, but excessive application can lead to environmental degradation and reduced nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). This study evaluated the effects of different nitrogen application rates (0, 60, 120, 150, 180, 210, and 240 kg N/ha) on tuber yield, nitrogen uptake, and soil nitrate accumulation over two growing seasons. The results showed that the highest tuber yield (20.8 t/ha) was obtained at 150 kg N/ha, beyond which further increases in nitrogen application did not result in significant yield improvements (P<0.05). Nitrogen uptake increased with application rates but reached a saturation point beyond 150 kg N/ha, leading to declining NUE. Soil nitrate levels significantly increased at higher N rates, particularly in deeper soil layers (40–60 cm), posing a potential risk of nitrate leaching. Apparent nitrogen balance calculations indicated substantial nitrogen surpluses at rates above 180 kg N/ha, further emphasizing the risk of nitrogen losses to the environment. These findings suggest that applying nitrogen at 150 kg/ha optimizes potato yield while minimizing environmental risks. Precision nitrogen management strategies, including split applications and slow-release fertilizers, should be adopted to enhance NUE and reduce nitrate leaching. Further long-term studies are needed to refine nitrogen recommendations under varying soil and climatic conditions to ensure sustainable potato production.

Keywords

• Nitrogen fertilization
• Tuber yield
• Soil nitrogen dynamics
• NUE
• Sandy loam soil
• Fertilizer management

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