Potato (Solanum tuberosum, L.) crop as influenced by tillage and fertilization in a Mediterranean environment

Abstract

The sustainable production of potato in Mediterranean environment is a way forward to overcome the challenges related to environment and food security. The soil fertilization and tillage methods adopted for potato cultivation are the key elements for improving production and conserving the environment. The adaptation to reduced tillage techniques and use of organic fertilizer is the most effective way of producing good quality potatoes without damaging the agroecosystem. Reduced tillage methods used in potato cultivation could include sub-soiling and spading and use of compost as organic fertilize in rplace of mineral fertilizers. Subsoiling and spading are based on reduced soil disturbance and use of organic fertilizers can replace plowing and mineral fertilization in potato cultivation. These practices can maintain the soil moisture, promote biological processes, increase organic matter accumulation, and reduce soil erosion along with CO2 emission.