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Interrelationships of Aluminum and Manganese on the Potato Plant¹

Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) var. ‘Netted Gem’ were grown in nutrient culture solutions and sand cultures to study the interrelationships of Al and Mn on plant growth, mineral nutrition, and tuber yield. Counteracting effects of Al and Mn levels in the growth medium were observed in the color of plant tops. Visual symptoms of Mn-induced Fe deficiency in nutrient solution cultures were associated with Mn/Fe concentration ratios of 18 or more. Aluminum counteracted these symptoms by increasing plant Fe content and decreasing Mn/Fe ratios to less than 18. Absorption and translocation of P, Ca, and Mg were affected by the addition of either Al or Mn to the nutrient solution cultures. In sand cultures, Al stunted plant tops, while Mn lengthened plant tops. Potato tuber yields were reduced by Mn at a low Al level (0 ppm), not affected by Mn at intermediate Al levels (5 to 10 ppm) and increased by Mn at a higher Al level (20 ppm). The number, size, and specific gravtity of tubers produced were affected by Al levels but not by Mn levels. It is concluded that a more accurate evaluation of the influence of soil acidity on potato production can be obtained when the effects of both soluble Al and Mn in podzol soils are considered.

Key Words: Aluminum toxicity • Manganese toxicity • Nutrient solution culture • Sand culture • Soil acidity

² Research Scientist.

Received for publication December 29, 1971.