Effects of potassium on potato growth,weight and yield

Irish potato is one of the staple food crops, only second to maize in Kenya. In terms of quantities produced and consumed globally, it is the most important crop. A key source of nutrition and source of livelihood to many people. Potato is a critical crop in terms of food security in the face of population growth and increased hunger rates. It is grown in 150 countries across temperate and tropical regions and at elevation from sea level to 4000 m. The greatest potato consumers are the Balurusians who consume 200 kg per capita per year compared to Kenyäs 25 kg. In Kenya, there are more than 15 ways of adding value to potatoes from making soup, crisps, cutlets, chips (French fries) and other many palatable products. The low yield being realized in potato production is as a result of inadequate and wrong choices of fertilizers usage and application as well as use of uncertified planting materials among other causes. The purpose of the study was to assess potato growth, weight and yield response to application rates of potassium chloride to three potato varieties in Milimani Location, Saboti Sub-County, Trans Nzoia County.