Fertilisers play an important role in improving agricultural productivity. They replace the soil with essential nutrients removed by the crops, which reduces the subsequent crop yield.
Using the right type and amount of farm fertilisers, you can maintain consistency in the quality of the soils and get a high yield from your crops every time. Here is a guide to choose suitable commercial fertilisers to supercharge your soil.
The Three Important Nutrients
Essential nutrients for plants are potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen. You will see these nutrients on the label of every farm fertiliser packaging. The label mentions the percentage of potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen the fertiliser contains.
For example, if the label mentions N-P-K as 10-6-3, it means the fertiliser contains 10% nitrogen, 6% Phosphorus, and 3% potassium. The rest comprises inert materials.
Read the Label Carefully
Much of the information mentioned on the product label of farm fertilisers is a marketing gimmick. You will find different N-P-K ratio labels on the products, but there is not much difference in the ratio of essential nutrients as most plants have similar needs of essential nutrients. Check your soil quality and crop nutrient requirements to select the right fertiliser.
Liquid, Granules, or Spikes
The farm fertilisers come in various forms like liquid, granules/pellets, or spikes. The state of fertiliser you choose is generally a matter of preference. It also determines how fast it will release the nutrients.
Liquid nutrients are immediately available for plants. For example, you can purchase high nitrogen and iron liquid fertiliser that helps correct iron deficiencies in plants.
It will ensure your plants and crops can overcome iron and nitrogen deficiencies, and you will see the colour of the leaves turn into dark green in a few days. You can use the liquid fertiliser with water to ensure faster absorption.
Fertilisers in granules or pellet form are an economical option for farmers. The granular size is an essential factor, and the label also mentions it. For example, the size of gypsum granules is around 1 to 2 mm.
The fertiliser industry follows a Size Guide Number that reports an average particle size multiplied by 100. If the granular size mentioned on the label is 1.5 mm, it means the SGN is 150. In simple words, if you use a sieve with a 1.5 mm opening, you will see 50% of the granules are retained in the sieve. You also need to check the uniformity index when choosing granular fertiliser.
You also get fertilisers in the form of concentrate and soluble powder. Before you use them on your farm, read the instructions carefully to know the proper ratio of the concentrate and water. Never use the concentrate directly on your farm.
Organic or Inorganic fertilisers
Organic fertilisers have several advantages over inorganic varieties. They have plant nutrients in low concentration. Organic fertilisers do not cause soil crusting, which is common when you use inorganic types. The use of organic fertilisers adds structure to the soil and also improves water movement in the soil. Don’t go by the name of the brand. Make sure the product is certified for the best results.
To sum up, these are some vital factors to focus on while selecting farm fertilisers to supercharge your soil.
