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Table 7. Fertilizer recommendation based on soil test results. [1]

The following fertilizer rates are to be used only as guidelines. Research at the University of Kentucky and at the University of Tennessee indicates that there is no yield increase from using more than 60 lbs./acre K2O or 60 lbs./acre of P2O5 when soil test P and K levels are high.

Phosphorus

Soil Test Reading

Lbs Phosphate (P2O5) Needed/A

Low (<30 lbs/A)

181-240

Medium (31-60 lbs/A)

61-180

High (61-80 lbs/A)

1-60

Very High (>80 lbs/A)

0


Potassium

Soil Test Reading

Lbs Potash (K2O) Needed/A

Low (< 200 lbs/A)

121-250

Medium (201-300 lbs/A)

61-120

High (301-450 lbs/A)

1-60

Very High (> 450 lbs/A)

0


Basal nitrogen where tomatoes:

Lbs Actual Needed/A

1) Follow grass-legume or legume sod

30

2) Follow grass sod

50

3) Are grown on continually cropped land

60


Supplemental applications: 
On bare ground plantings, apply an additional 30 lbs. of nitrogen per acre as a sidedressing when the first fruits are golf ball size.  A second sidedress application of 30 lb. N may also be desirable 2 or 3 weeks later depending on the crop's growing condition.  For plasticulture with drip on medium-textured soils, apply all phophorus and potassium requirements prior to laying plastic mulch.  See fertigation table for N application rates.

[1] Commercial Vegetable Crop Recommendation 1998-99. Eds. B. Rowell et al. Cooperative Extension Service, University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture, Frankfort, KY. P.99

 

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