In order to improve the seed germination rate and yield of potato in arid and semi-arid area

a fieldplot experiment was performed to find which is optimal for hole-use and seed soaking applications of the Murun drought resistance and nutrition slow-release agent(MDRNSA)

and analyze the effects of sustained release agent(SRA)application on the growth and yield of potato.The effect of SRA solid water application onthe potato tuber size was also investigated.Results showed that both the hole-use and seed soaking applications improved potato seed germination rate very significantly(p <0.01)

with an increment of 76.2%incontrast to control.The height of potato plant was promoted by 21.8%～44.5% more than that in controland the difference was significant between the two applications(p <0.01).The lower ratio of root to shootin the early stage of growth provided a favorable condition for the growth of potato tuber and the accumulation of substances in the late stage of growth.The potato yield was promoted by 12.4%～16.7% more thanthat in CK

but the increment was not significant(p >0.05).With the way of solidification

the number ofsmall potato decreased

the number of big potato increased

the average diameter of potato tuber increased

and the marketability of potato rose.It follows from the research that SRA improved the yield and seed germination rate of potato and the use of solid water increased water use efficiency and the marketability of potato.