Response of calcium application on yield and skin damage of potato tubers

Abstract

Tuberization in potato is a complex process and influenced by photoperiod, temperature and nutrition. Potato tubers have low calcium as compared to leaves and stems. Recent studies have provided evidence linking tuber quality with tuber tissue calcium concentration. There are reports on strong support indicating the involvement of calcium in tuberization. The purpose of the present study was to determine the influence of supplemental calcium on the growth, yield and skin damage of tubers. Results indicated that different levels of calcium on plant growth characteristics were significant. Total yield as well as grade-wise tuber yield were significantly higher with the application of 120 kg Ca/ha at the time of planting. Lowest skin damage in tubers were recorded with the application of 20 kg Ca/ha at planting and 20 kg Ca/ha at earthing up.