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50th TWC, Tob. Work. Conf., 2022, abstr. 14

Recent investigations of chloride application to flue-cured tobacco

VANN M.C.; SHORT M.M.; WHITLEY D.S.; MACHACEK J.L.; CHEEK J.A.
North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA

Recent fertilizer price increases have caused commercial farmers to consider alternative input sources for select nutrients. The blending of potassium chloride with potassium sulfate or sulfate of potash magnesia is a scenario that is commonly considered by producers, agronomists, and fertilizer dealers. While this practice may reduce the total cost of potassium fertilizer inputs, the increased concentration of chloride (Cl-) within the custom blended products must be considered.  Results from field trials conducted in from 2016 through 2020 are presented that outline the impacts of Cl- application (0 – 100 lbs. a-1) to cured leaf macro, secondary, and micro nutrient concentration in lug, cutter, leaf, and tip stalk positions. Other cured leaf measurements, such as yield, quality, price, value, and chemistry, are also discussed. (Reprinted with permission)