September 8, 2015

How strong is your K Game?

Today’s water shortage and expense touts potassium’s tolerance traits 

With most of the country closing in on the fourth consecutive year of drought, landscapers and grounds managers are seeing (and feeling) the impact. The 33 percent water price increase since 2010[1] makes everyone think twice about maintaining a lush, green lawn. And, while no one can control the rainfall (or lack thereof), you can manage drought stress through adequate potassium supply.

Potassium’s power play in turfgrass tolerance 

Potassium plays an important role in turfgrass health – it increases stress tolerance of extreme temperatures, drought and high-traffic wear. Additionally, K is a major solute in the "hardening" of turfgrasses for drought and high/low temperature tolerances. Without sufficient K, plants cannot maintain adequate turgor pressure in vegetative tissues; the leaf water potential declines; yet, stomata remain open, causing high transpiration[2].

Avoiding soil salinity challenges – K source matters

Potassium and associated ions can increase soil salinity issues on irrigated sandy soils in arid regions or in regions undergoing prolonged drought periods. There are sulfate of potash (SOP) based K fertilizers that provide high potassium without contributing to already high and potentially damaging salinity levels. Protassium+®, for example, an SOP (0-0-50-17S) K source, has a lower salinity index [with less than one percent chloride] compared to muriate of potash (MOP) [containing 47 percent chloride].

Protassium+ is the right K source

Compared to other potassium fertilizers, Protassium+ has virtually no chloride. With a low salinity index, it helps maintain the appearance of lawns while protecting your profits during dry conditions.

To learn more about Protassium+, call 800.743.7258 or visit