ABSTRACT
High-yielding cassava varieties require more plant nutrients than traditional varieties, since the former have usually been selected, especially for responsiveness to favourable growing conditions. Application of the optimum type and amount of nutrients is critical to achieving the highest quantity and quality of cassava roots. Application of high rates of N may increase the cyanide concentration of the roots, while high rates of K may increase the starch and decrease the cyanide concentration. External nutrient sources must be used to fill the gap between the cassava crop’s needs and the soil’s indigenous supply. The nutrients removed when roots and/or plant tops are harvested must be replaced in the soil to maintain stable high yields. Additional nutrients may need to be added to account for removal of stems and leaves, if these are not reincorporated into the soil.
