ROLE OF POTASSIUM IN FORAGE LEGUMES

A sufficient supply of potassium in plants is important for the processes of photosynthesis, carbon dioxide assimilation, carbon movement, carbohydrate metabolism, enzyme activity, maintenance of the water balance and other processes in the plant. Potassium is an important element for the processes of growth and development, especially for the formation, growth and ripening of fruits. The aim of the study was to analyze the importance of the supply of potassium to forage legumes for achieving high and high-quality yields of forage and seed. A lack of potassium in forage legumes such as alfalfa, clover, soya beans, cowpea and lupine leads to weaker nodulation, which has a negative effect on yield components, yield and seed quality. One of the alternative options for a rapid response to symptoms of potassium deficiency in plants is foliar fertilization.