Effect of Partial replacement of potassium sulfate fertilizer using feldspar and bacillus circulans on productivity of Barhee date palm

Environmental pollution and the high costs of mineral fertilizers have prompted scientists and farmers to seek eco-friendly fertilizers.The effect of replacing 25 to 100% potassium sulfate partially by using 25 to 100% feldspar and 1000 ml Bacillus circulans / palm/ year on the productivity and quality traits of Barhee date palm bunches under Aswan Governorate conditions was investigated during 2023 and 2024 seasons. Fruit setting, yield and bunch weight per palm were maximized with supplying the palms with using feldspar, particularly in higher proportions combined with Bacillus circulans, as well as the physical and chemical properties of the fruits compared to the traditional potassium sulfate treatment.. These findings referred to the use of feldspar as a sustainable alternative source of potassium fertilization for enhancing date palm production. Implementing a partial replacement of potassium sulfate with feldspar as a mineral fertilizer in Barhi date palm orchards by using a mixture of 75% feldspar and 25% potassium sulfate, along with 1000 ml of Bacillus per palm per year, proved beneficial for enhancing economic yield and improving fruit quality.