Potato nutritional management changes and challenges into the next century

Plant nutrients are important components of the intensive production system used for potatoes. Nutrient management practices need to be improved for sustained and increased productivity. Better mangement decisions will be made when accurate information is available about (a) crop residues and rotation effects on nutrient cycling, (b) the nutritional characteristics and requirements of each variety, (c) bioavailability of nutrients in soils, and (d) fertilization and tillage effects on nutrient-use efficiencies. Plant growth and nutrient uptake responses to different nutrient availabilities must also be understood to maximize growth and nutrient efficiencies. Diagnostic management techniques for nutrients need to be related to fundamental chemical and biological processes in the soil and plant system to be applicable to different environments. This information can then be packaged with other knowledge into a comprehensive crop management system. These changes should bring our agronomic practices into better harmony with the natural processes of the production system, and yet be responsive to social and environmental concerns, and economic reality.