Question:

There are different thoughts on potassium. I have a general soil report. Should I make an application?

Jordan:

Although historically we have worried about putting K out shortly before planting, my recommendation is that if the soil test calls for K, it should be applied and then distributed through the soil profile. While K (and magnesium) in the pegging zone can affect calcium nutrition, if “remedial rates” or rates that are not excessive are used, there should be no issue. Given the soil test you have is not referenced for peanuts, the rate of potash for a given K-I can be found in 2026 Peanut Information. While we have not looked at it, K-Mag should also be okay, although we are now adding two cations (elements with a positive charge) that can affect calcium absorption into pods and possible leaching of calcium because soil sites (negative charge) have K or Mg bound to them. But, if traditional and reasonable rates are applied, you should be okay. Where we run into trouble is when we apply high rates in preceding crops, especially if we add more to peanuts.