Potassium is often overlooked compared with nitrogen, but it plays a critical role in water management, nutrient movement, photosynthesis, stalk strength and overall crop performance. In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, Randy Dowdy and David Hula are joined by Dr. Karl Wyatt, Director of Agronomy at Nutrien, for a deep dive into potassium and potash management.

The discussion covers soil testing, base saturation vs. parts-per-million measurements, fertilizer sources including potash, potassium sulfate and potassium nitrate, application timing, chloride sensitivity, variable-rate applications and the role of potassium in nitrogen-use efficiency. The group also explores how high-yield growers can use yield maps and soil fertility data to build more customized fertility programs for their farms.

As growers begin making fertility decisions for 2027, this conversation offers practical insight into how potassium fits into a complete nutrient-management strategy—and why understanding what's already in your soil is the first step.

Breaking Barriers with R&D is hosted by Randy Dowdy and David Hula and focuses on the agronomic practices, technology and management strategies helping growers push yield and improve ROI.