Which crop is least expected to benefit from potassium supplementation?

Soybean is typically considered the crop least likely to benefit significantly from potassium supplementation. This is primarily because soybeans have lower potassium requirements compared to some other crops like corn or alfalfa. While potassium is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in plant health and development, the specific uptake needs for soybeans do not generally warrant high levels of potassium fertility.

In particular, soybeans are capable of fixing their own nitrogen through symbiosis with rhizobacteria, which alleviates some of the mineral nutrient demands. Furthermore, they often have adaptable root systems that can utilize available soil potassium efficiently, leading to a less pronounced benefit from additional potassium applications.

In contrast, corn and alfalfa have higher potassium demands, and potassium plays a crucial role in processes such as photosynthesis, enzyme activation, and water regulation in these crops. Tobacco also tends to require higher levels of potassium for optimal growth, given its unique physiological requirements. Therefore, while potassium can be beneficial for a variety of crops, soybeans are less responsive to potassium supplementation compared to the other options presented.