Uses Of Fertilizer | Types, Methods Of Application

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Hi, welcome to this hall on the Uses of fertilizer and methods of fertilizer application in Agriculture.

Introduction

“Learn about the uses of fertilizers, their types (organic, inorganic, biofertilizers), and effective methods of application like broadcasting, fertigation, and more for better crop yield and soil health.”

Table Of Contents

  1. Meaning Of fertilizer
  2. Importance of fertilizer
  3. Uses of fertilizer
  4. Types of fertilizers
  5. Methods of fertilizer application.

See Also

Fertilizers play a crucial role in modern agriculture by enhancing soil fertility and providing essential nutrients that promote healthy plant growth. They have revolutionized farming practices, increasing crop yield and quality. This blog delves into the various uses of fertilizers, their types, and the methods of application to optimize their benefits

Meaning Of Fertilizer

Meaning: Fertilizers are chemical substances, generally in the form of powder, granules, pellets or crystals which can be added to the soil to increase its fertility. The use of fertilizer is the surest way of replenishing lost nutrients from the soil and increase the productivity of crops.

Have put up an article on Methods of controlling pests and diseases affecting crops here Pests and Diseases of Crops.

Uses of fertilizers in agriculture
Uses of fertilizers in agriculture

IMPORTANCE AND USES OF FERTILIZER

Fertilizers provide plants with the nutrients they need to thrive. Their primary uses include:

  1. Fertilizer helps to increase the yield of crops: They contribute to increased crop yields, ensuring a more abundant and efficient agricultural production.
  2. They improve the structure of the soil: Fertilizers play a crucial role in maintaining soil structure and preventing soil erosion by promoting the growth of vegetation.
  3. They also improve soil aeration.
  4. They increase the growth of planktons in fish pond.
  5. They increase the fertility of the soil: Fertilizers enhance soil fertility by providing essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, promoting healthier plant growth.
  6. Fertilizers contribute to faster plant maturation, reducing the time required for crops to reach harvestable stages.
  7. In horticulture and landscaping: Another uses of fertilizer is that they are used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and lawns by promoting lush and vibrant plant growth.
  8. They support the cultivation of a variety of crops by tailoring nutrient ratios to specific plant needs, optimizing overall agricultural productivity.
  9. Fertilizers aid in the development of robust root systems, improving plants’ ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
  10. The application of fertilizers helps rectify nutrient deficiencies in the soil, preventing stunted growth and nutrient-related disorders in plants.
  11. Sustainable agricultural practices often involve the judicious uses of fertilizers to minimize environmental impact while maximizing crop productivity.

TYPES OF FERTILIZER

Fertilizers are grouped into two major classes based on their Composition. Here are the main types of fertilizer:

STRAIGHT OR SINGLE FERTILIZER: These types of fertilizer contain only one element. Such element may be nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

  • A. fertilizers which are rich in nitrogen are called nitrogen fertilizers and examples are: ammonium sulfate -(NH4)2SO4, 21%N, 24%S., Urea, ammonium nitrate, sodium nitrate, potassium nitrates, anhydrous ammonia, ammonia liquor, calcium ammonium nitrate, diammonium phosphate.
  • B. Fertilizers which are rich in potassium are called potassium fertilizer and examples is the muriate of potash – KCL 50% k20.
  • C. Fertilizers which are rich in phosphorus are called phosphorus fertilizers and examples include: single super phosphate, triple super phosphate 45%, rock phosphate, basic slag, dicalcium phosphate, diammonium phosphate, Guano (poultry,bird,droppings).

Complete or Mixed or Compound Fertilizer: These are types of fertilizer which contain two or more nutrients. A good example is N.P.k Fertilizer, which contains nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Compound fertilizer can exist in various combinations such as 15 -15 -15 – 5 – 10 – 5 -10 – 5. etc. 15 -15 -15 grade would have a 1:1:1 ratio of N: k2O. 15 -15 -15 means equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

Other Main types of fertilizers includes

  1. Organic Fertilizers
  2. Inorganic Fertilizers
  3. Compound Fertilizers
  4. Biofertilizers
  5. Slow-Release Fertilizers
  6. Liquid Fertilizers
  7. Micronutrient Fertilizers
  8. Customized Fertilizers

Methods Of Fertilizer Application

In Uses of fertilizer; different methods are used to apply fertilizers to the Soil. These are:

1. Broadcasting Method: This is the spreading of fertilizers evenly on the ground before they are ploughed into the soil.

    2. Ring method: A circular hole is made around the crop and fertilizer is placed inside the hole after which the hole is covered. The circular hole must not come too close to the plant, otherwise, fertilizer will touch the plant and burn it.

    3. Row or Side placement: Make a hole a few centimetres from each plant and apply a teaspoonful of fertilizer per plant in each hole then cover it up with soil.

    4. Folial Spray: This is a methods of fertilizer application in which some Trace elements or micro-nutrients are dissolved in water and sprayed on the crop directly. The leaves are capable of absorbing the nutrients directly into their body.

    5. Top dressing: This refers to the second application of fertilizer several week after the first dose has been applied. The second dose is to supplement the first application.

    Conclusion on Uses of Fertilizer

    Fertilizers are indispensable for modern agriculture, ensuring food security and supporting sustainable farming. Understanding the types of fertilizers and their application methods is crucial for maximizing their benefits while minimizing environmental impact. By adopting the right fertilization practices, farmers can achieve higher yields, healthier crops, and a more balanced ecosystem.

    Whether you’re a commercial farmer or a home gardener, using fertilizers wisely is key to nurturing both plants and the planet.

    Revision Questions

    1. What is the meaning of fertilizer?
    2. List and explain the types of fertilizers.
    3. What are the methods of fertilizer application?
    4. State 10 uses of fertilizer
    5. List 5 importance of fertilizer to crops
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