different types of fertilizers and when to use them
Here are different types of fertilizers and when to use them, along with their proportion guidelines:
Fertilizer Types and Usage Guidelines
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Nitrogen Fertilizers:
- Ammonium Nitrate (AN): Use for crops that require a quick boost of nitrogen, especially in the early stages of growth. Apply at the rate of 20-30 kg per acre.
- Urea: Suitable for all types of crops. Apply during the vegetative growth stage. Use 30-40 kg per acre for most crops.
- Ammonium Sulfate (AS): Good for acid-loving plants like blueberries. Apply at the rate of 25-30 kg per acre.
- Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN): Suitable for crops with high calcium requirements. Apply 30-40 kg per acre.
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Phosphorus Fertilizers:
- Single Superphosphate (SSP): Use for crops with low phosphorus availability. Apply 25-35 kg per acre during sowing or transplanting.
- Triple Superphosphate (TSP): Suitable for most crops. Apply 20-30 kg per acre during sowing or transplanting.
- Diammonium Phosphate (DAP): Use for crops requiring both nitrogen and phosphorus. Apply 25-35 kg per acre during sowing or transplanting.
- Monoammonium Phosphate (MAP): Suitable for acidic soils. Apply 20-30 kg per acre during sowing or transplanting.
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Potassium Fertilizers:
- Muriate of Potash (MOP) or Potassium Chloride (KCl): Use for most crops. Apply 20-30 kg per acre during planting or early growth stages.
- Potassium Sulfate (SOP) or Sulfate of Potash: Suitable for chloride-sensitive crops. Apply 20-30 kg per acre during planting or early growth stages.
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Compound Fertilizers:
- NPK Fertilizers: Use for balanced nutrition in various crops. The proportion will depend on the crop's specific nutrient requirements. Common ratios include 10-26-26, 20-20-20, 14-28-14, etc.
- NPKS Fertilizers: Suitable for crops with high sulfur requirements. Proportions will vary based on specific crop needs.
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Organic Fertilizers:
- Compost: Use as a soil conditioner and nutrient source. Apply 2-4 kg per square meter.
- Manure (Cow, Horse, Poultry, etc.): Apply 5-10 kg per square meter depending on the type of manure and crop requirements.
- Bone Meal: Use as a phosphorus source for flowering plants. Apply 60-80 grams per square meter.
- Fish Emulsion: A liquid fertilizer suitable for various crops. Dilute and apply as per the manufacturer's instructions.
- Blood Meal: High in nitrogen. Apply 60-80 grams per square meter for nitrogen-hungry plants.
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Micronutrient Fertilizers:
- Apply micronutrient fertilizers based on soil test results and crop requirements. Generally, 1-2 kg per acre is sufficient for most micronutrients.
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Biofertilizers:
- Use as per specific crop needs and soil conditions. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
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Slow-Release Fertilizers:
- Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for application rates, as they can vary based on the specific formulation.
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Liquid Fertilizers:
- Dilute liquid fertilizers as per the manufacturer's instructions and apply during the growing season based on crop requirements.
Published on: Jul 21, 2023, 11:04 PM