Virginia-type tobacco is successfully grown in medium well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5 to avoid excessive moisture accumulation at the rootstock depth.

The ideal amount of available nitrogen per plant growth phase is a crucial factor in achieving successful production. Nitrogen should be available during the rapid growth phase and should be progressively depleted towards the full ripening phase. Lack of nitrogen leads to underdeveloped plants, low production, low nicotine and high sugars. Excessive nitrogen fertilization leads to uncontrolled axillary bud germination, excessive plant growth, production of low commercial value leaves with a leathery texture and deep green colour, and difficulty in ripening the leaves. Virginia-type tobacco absorbs 8-12 kg of nitrogen per stremma. 40% of the nitrogen should be provided at the basal fertilization 10-12 days before the plantation is established by incorporation and accompanied by light irrigation. The remaining 60% is provided as surface fertilization during the rapid leaf growth phase.

Phosphorus is an essential macroelement for the development of a rich root system and for the uptake of other necessary macronutrients and trace elements. Phosphorus is applied during the basal fertilization at a rate of 8-16 kg per stremma.

Potassium-sufficient tobaccos have an elastic texture, bright appearance, proper combustion and high smoking characteristics. At the same time, they are resistant to pest and disease attacks. Potassium should be added during the basal fertilization in quantities of 12-30 kg per stremma. The use of fertilizers containing chlorine is prohibited because it increases hygroscopicity and reduces the combustibility of the dry product.

Our Suggestions

Basic fertilisation

Fertilizer type	Dosology
15-15-15	30-40
0-0-50+10MgO	35-45
12-12-17	40-60
12-12-17+2MgO	40-60
12-12-17+0,1Zn+0,1B	40-60
8-16-24	50-70

Surface fertilisation

Fertilizer type	Dosology
34,4-0-0	15-25
33-0-0+31SO3	15-25
25-0-0	30-50
27-0-0	30-50
21-0-0	30-50
13-0-46	35-55