Effect of Two Magnesium Fertilizers on Leaf Magnesium Concentration, Yield, and Quality of Potato and Sugar Beet

Abstract

Twelve field experiments were conducted to study the impacts of calcined magnesite and Kieserite fertilizers on yield, quality and leaf concentrations of magnesium (Mg) in potatoes and sugar beet. The rate of Mg applied was 60 kg Mg ha−1, and the experiments were realized in six locations for both crop species. There were clear increases in leaf Mg concentration and yield of both crops resulting from application of Mg fertilizers. Mean increase in leaf Mg concentration and crop yield for both species were more pronounced with Kieserite than with calcined magnesite. Sugar concentrations of sugar beet and dry matter yield of potatoes were, however, influenced only slightly by the Mg fertilizers. It seems that superiority of Kieserite to calcined magnesite is related to higher Mg solubility of Kieserite. Use of Mg fertilizers with higher solubility helps to avoid the risk of Mg deficiency and subsequent losses in yield and economic returns.