Phosphorus fertilisation of faba bean - Approaches on low, medium and high P-soils

Experiments in Ireland have shown that phosphorus (P) supply from the soil is important for high yielding faba bean crops. These observations are supported by studies showing that crops that fix nitrogen (biological nitrogen fixation, BNF) are particularly sensitive to P deficiencies. Phosphorus deficiency reduces nodule (which fixes nitrogen) growth and activity and impacts directly on crop growth. Irish research has also shown that in cases of limited available soil-P conditions, application of P fertiliser with the seed can improve crop development and increase yield. The purpose of this practice note is to provide insights into faba bean production practices arising from these findings.