Effects of potassium chloride and cattle dung ash on carrot (Daucus carota L.) growth and yield, Review Article

Betelhem Taye
Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture and Natural Resource Sciences, Debre Berhan University

Abstract

Carrot (Daucus carota L.) is one of the most widely cultivated root vegetables globally and holds significant economic and nutritional importance in Ethiopia due to its short growth cycle, pleasant taste, and high vitamin content. Despite its considerable potential, carrot productivity in Ethiopia remains low, largely constrained by poor soil fertility, inadequate fertilizer management, the limited use of potassium-based amendments, and disease caused by pathogens, like plant- parasitic-nematodes. Most growers rely solely on nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers, assuming sufficient soil potassium availability. However, lack of site-specific and crop-based potassium recommendations has restricted yield improvements. This review highlights the role of potassium, particularly potassium chloride (KCl) and cattle dung ash (CDA), in enhancing carrot growth and yield. Therefore, an integrated approach combining organic and inorganic fertilizers is essential for achieving sustainable yield improvement, maintaining soil fertility, and ensuring environmentally friendly carrot production systems in Ethiopia.

Keywords: carrot; potassium fertilization, soil fertility management, sustainable production.