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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. Micronutrient Fertilizers:

   • Apply micronutrient fertilizers based on soil test results and crop requirements. Generally, 1-2 kg per acre is sufficient for most micronutrients.

7. Biofertilizers:

   • Use as per specific crop needs and soil conditions. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.

8. Slow-Release Fertilizers:

   • Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for application rates, as they can vary based on the specific formulation.

9. Liquid Fertilizers:

   • Dilute liquid fertilizers as per the manufacturer's instructions and apply during the growing season based on crop requirements.