ESN for Potato Production

Nitrogen management is essential for potato production. Proper nitrogen application can achieve high yields, optimum crop quality, and maximum profitability. ESN technology protects growers’ nitrogen investment from loss mechanisms, ensuring potatoes get the right amount of nitrogen at the right stage of growth.

Factors to consider when choosing a nitrogen source

1. The effects of delayed, slow and controlled release application on potatoes.
2. The potato growth stage at the time of nitrogen application.
3. Weather interactions with potato production.
4. Potential nitrogen loss to the environment by leaching, volatilization, and denitrification.

Why ESN should be considered for potatoes

Potatoes are predominantly grown in sandy soils under irrigation or in humid regions where rainfall is supplemented by irrigation. Coupled by the relatively shallow root system of potatoes, the management of nitrogen is critical to reduce nitrogen loss through leaching.

ESN is the smart nitrogen needed to optimize potato production. ESN is 44% nitrogen and coated with a flexible polymer coating. This coating allows moisture to diffuse into the granule, creating a nitrogen solution. The solution then moves out through the membrane at a rate that is controlled by soil temperature and matches the nitrogen demand of the growing crop. ESN, when properly used in potato production, has been demonstrated to be an effective means of both reducing nitrogen loss and regulating supply to the crop.

Five key elements to successful nitrogen management in potatoes:

1. Plan ahead for nitrogen application options.
2. Know your environment and potential nitrogen loss pathways.
3. Apply the correct amount of nitrogen at each growth stage.
4. Use in-season applications, including fertigation where available, to control nitrogen supply and minimize losses. 
5. Observe and adjust in-season as needed according to growing conditions and crop need. 

ESN continually outperforms other nitrogen sources in research trials in Canada and the U.S. Browse our potato application recommendations or contact your local ESN rep to get application recommendations specific to your variety and geography.