What is the plant-available potassium ion form found in soils?

The plant-available form of potassium in soils is K+, which is the potassium ion. This ion is readily taken up by plants and is crucial for various physiological processes, including photosynthesis, enzyme activation, and maintaining osmotic balance. Potassium's significant role in plant health and development makes it essential for effective crop management.

Potassium exists in multiple forms in the soil, but only the K+ ion is directly available for plant uptake. Other forms, such as K3PO4, KCl, and CaK2(PO4)2, represent compound forms or combinations of potassium with other elements or ions. These compounds may not be accessible for immediate plant uptake and may require mineralization or specific conditions to release potassium in a usable form. Thus, K+ is the primary form that directly affects plant nutrition and growth.