Ashes to Agriculture: The Ancient Roots of Potash

Yara's Crop Nutrition podcast

This episode explores the history, development, and sustainability of the potash industry. We are joined by Dr. Davide Ciceri, who currently leads innovative R&D at AgroPlantae, Inc. and Yara’s Director of Agronomy, Dr. Rob Mikkelsen.

We begin with the origins of potash, which can be traced back to ancient methods of extracting potassium compounds from wood ashes. The conversation then delves into the development of the potash fertilizer industry, highlighting the work of chemist von Liebig and the commercial mining of potash in Germany. The different methods of potash mining, including underground mining and solution mining, are discussed. The conversation also explores the sustainability of potash resources and the potential for alternative sources of potassium. The importance of considering the right source of potassium for specific crops and soil conditions is emphasized. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the historical significance of potash and the ongoing research and development in the industry.

Dr. Ciceri wrote an insightful article, “Historical and Technical Developments of Potassium Resources.”

Here are the links to our other episodes on the history of fertilizers: - The Alchemy of Air with Author Thomas Hager - The History and Future of Phosphorus for Plants - An Unsung Hero: Norman Borlaug

Here is a beautiful photo of the potash evaporation ponds near Moab, Utah