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Root & Bulb Vegetables Fertilizer Solutions

Precise nutrition for root and bulb crops to maximise yield, quality and nutrient efficiency.

Introduction to Root & Bulb Vegetables

Root vegetables like carrot (Daucus carota) and radish (Raphanus sativus), alongside bulb vegetables such as onion (Allium cepa) and garlic (Allium sativum), are nutrient-dense crops requiring precise fertilization. Correct nutrient management ensures optimal root development, uniform bulb size, enhanced flavor, and extended storage life.

Introduction to Root & Bulb Vegetables

Nutrient Requirements

Essential nutrients for root and bulb vegetables to promote root/bulb growth, storage quality, and crop health.

NutrientFunctionDeficiency SymptomsRecommended Fertilizer
Nitrogen (N)Supports vegetative growth and leaf area; balances root-bulb ratioThin roots, pale leaves, reduced bulb sizeUrea, NPK 14-14-14
Phosphorus (P)Promotes strong root/bulb development and early maturityStunted roots, delayed bulb formationDAP, NPK 16-20-12
Potassium (K)Enhances bulb firmness, color, sugar content, and stress resistanceSoft bulbs, poor color, reduced storage lifeMOP, K-rich NPK blends
Calcium (Ca) & Magnesium (Mg)Strengthens cell walls, prevents root rot and physiological disordersRoot tip burn, hollow or split bulbsDolomite, Ca-based amendments, MgSO₄
Boron (B) & Zinc (Zn)Essential for root elongation, bulb formation, and uniform growthPoor bulb set, misshapen rootsChelated Zn, foliar Boron

Fertilizer Recommendations

Root and bulb vegetable fertilization should follow growth stages to optimize root/bulb size, quality, and nutrient efficiency.

Pre-Planting / Soil Preparation

Apply basal fertilizer rich in P and K; incorporate organic matter for strong root foundation.

Vegetative / Leaf Growth

Moderate N promotes leaf expansion without compromising root/bulb development; maintain Ca and Mg to prevent deficiencies.

Bulb / Root Formation

Provide K, B, and Zn to support uniform bulb enlargement, sugar accumulation, and overall crop quality.

Pre-Harvest / Maturation

Reduce late N to avoid excessive leafy growth; maintain K and Mg to improve storage quality and shelf-life.

Recommended Products

Terafon® RootMax NPK 14-14-14+Mg

Balanced fertilizer for root and bulb vegetables, supporting strong root and bulb formation.

Terafon® BulbBoost K30+Zn

Enhances bulb firmness, sugar content, and micronutrient balance for onions and garlic.

Terafon® MicroRoot (B + Zn + Mg)

Micronutrient blend improving root elongation, bulb development, and uniform growth.

Terafon® SoilRoot Organics

Organic-mineral soil conditioner to improve soil structure, fertility, and microbial activity.
Root & Bulb Vegetables Application Guidelines by Growth Stage

Application Guidelines by Growth Stage

Pre-Planting / Soil Preparation

Apply RootMax 14-14-14+Mg; incorporate organic matter and adjust soil pH as needed.

Vegetative / Leaf Growth

Split N applications; monitor leaf health; supplement Mg if required.

Bulb / Root Formation

Apply BulbBoost K30+Zn and foliar MicroRoot to support uniform bulb and root growth.

Pre-Harvest / Maturation

Use SoilRoot Organics; maintain K and Mg for storage quality and shelf-life.
Pro Tip: Conduct regular soil and leaf tests to optimize nutrient balance, ensuring strong roots and high-quality bulbs.

Results & Benefits

  • Improved root and bulb size, uniformity, and marketable quality
  • Enhanced flavor, color, and sugar content
  • Better nutrient-use efficiency and reduced waste
  • Reduced physiological disorders and improved crop health
  • Long-term soil fertility and sustainable productivity

Related Food Crops

Explore tailored nutrition solutions for other crop groups:

Contact & Resources

Terafon agronomists provide expert advice to optimize fertilization and maximize yield and quality in root and bulb vegetable systems.

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