Spatial characteristics and yield increasing potential of fertilizer consumption among different regions of Xinjiang

Based on official statistical data for 1989 ~ 2005, the characteristics of chemical fertilizer application in different regions of Xinjiang were analyzed. The relationships between yield and chemical fertilizer application in different regions were also investigated. Based on fertilizer application level in different regions, Xinjiang was divided into three zones, high application zone (219.59 kg·hm^-2), medium application zone (175.93 kg·hm^-2) and low application zone (115.88 kg·hm^-2). Grain yield index increase (GYII) per additional kilogram fertilizer application decreases in the following order: medium application zone (21.45 kg grain per kg fertilizer) > low application zone (13.88) >high application zone (10.80). High application zone has the lowest yield increase potential while medium and low application zones have higher yield potential. It implies more fertilizer utilization in the medium and low application zones in order to improve grain production in Xinjiang.