Use of potassium fertilizer in garlic (Allium sativum) for managing pest and improving yield

Field trials were conducted during 2009 to 2012 at farmers'fields in Anta (Baran) and Bhilwara district of Rajasthan to investigate the effect of potash on incidence of major pests of garlic (Allium sativum L.) and yield at 4 dose i.e. 25, 50, 75 and 100 kg ha⁻¹ either singly as a basal dose or in two installments i.e. 50% as a basal dose and remaining 50% up to the 60 days age of the crop. The application of 100 kg K₂O ha⁻¹ in two splits up to 60 days of the crop age had lowest infested plants by thrips(7.9%) and mites (3.75%). Use of potash from 50 to 100 kg ha⁻¹ either singly or in two splits did not have significant difference in thrips and mites population. Higher dose of potash either singly or in two splits also resulted in minimum sprouting (2.31%). Maximum yield (11.63 t ha⁻¹) was also obtained with maximum dose of potash applied in two splits.