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Methods of Fertilizer Application

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Submitted by deepalitewari on Mon, 08/03/2010 - 11:21 Posted in

English Agriculture

Methods of Fertilizer Application

Deepali Tewari Pandey GBPUAT

It is very important to choose the right method of fertilizer application. Choice of method of fertilizer and its application mainly depends on: 1. Kind of soil we are ploughing 2. Type of crop we are taking

3. Nature of nutrient we are applying 4. Irrigation facility in the area i.e. the land is irrigated or rain fed. Nutrients to be used by plant must be placed in such a manner that they can be dissolved by the moisture in the soil. The rates and distance that plant food element can move within the soil depend on the chemical nature of the material that furnishes the nutrients and character of soil.

These are several methods of applying manures and fertilizers in vegetable crops. These are discussed below one by one:

Soil application Organic manures are mostly spread uniformly in the field and incorporated several days before planting. Following are most important methods of application of fertilizers.

Broadcasting on the soil surface before ploughing. Broadcasting on the soil surface after ploughing and mixing with the surface soil by harrowing. Applying fertilizers in a band at the bottom of the plough furrow. Applying fertilizers in bands, 5 to 8 or more centimeters from the row and 5 to 8 or more centimeters below the surface. A combination of broadcasting methods or plough furrow application with bands at the side of the row to planting time. Applying fertilizer with a drill below the surface of the soil before crop is planted.

Which fertilizer should be applied and how?

Since phosphates generally move only short distance from their points of placement so for better availability, phosphates must be placed in the zone of root development for being utilized by plant. Surface application after a crop is planted not being in the zone of root activity, is of little value to row crops in the year of application.

The placement of water soluble phosphorus in bends tends to reduce contact with the soil and result in lesser fixation than in broadcast application.

In contrast to phosphorus, the nitrates salts are mobile and move vertically or horizontally within the soil as the water moves. In fine textured soil the movement of N is restricted. Potassium salts are less mobile than the nitrates but are more mobile than P. In general, N and K carrying fertilizers are more readily soluble than the P material. Therefore, they cannot be safely concentrated in as large amount near the seed or the roots of plants because of the danger of salt damage.

Likewise, a reduction of soil moisture increases the concentration of the soil solution. Therefore, relatively large amount of fertilizers placed too near the seed or seedling roots are likely to cause injury during the dry periods, practically when such periods occur soon after the application of fertilizer.

It is desirable to divide the total requirement of fertilizer nitrogen into several parts to be applied from time to time during growing season. Fertilizers rich in' potassium should be placed in a band to the side and below the seed or transplant. Starter Solution Solution of fertilizers consisting of N, P, and K is prepared in desirable concentration and directly applied to the roots of young plants at the transplanting time. Such solution is termed as "Starter solution". This method allows a direct utilization of cheapest nitrogen and phosphorus sources. Advantages:

The nutrients reach the plant roots immediately, and The solution is sufficiently diluted so that it does not inhibit growth. Starter solution stimulates growth of young plants. Starter fertilizer can be used in tomato, peppers, melons, cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli. Foliar spray

Nutrients are applied in the form of dilute solution on standing crop over the leaves of the plants. Since there is the direct application of nutrient to the site of metabolism the nutrient use efficiency is increased and quick response is observed by plants. This method is more fruitful (convenient, economic and quick responsive) when: 1. 2. Small quantity of micronutrient is needed to apply. It cannot be applied effectively through root or soil,

3.

There is need to apply partial quantity of nitrogen in the form of urea. It is not possible to give the total requirement of major nutrients through foliar feeding

because higher concentration causes leaf scorching, and if frequency of sprays is increased, it increase cost of cultivation.

The minimum safe concentration and frequency of spray solution's depends upon the crop, the stage of maturity, season of spraying and the wetting and adhering quality of the spray. In general, 1 to 3 sprays of micronutrients and 3 to 6 of macro element nutrition with wetting the leaves thoroughly in each spray, are advised. Table2 gives the recommended dose for Table2: Recommendations for foliar applications of plant nutrients.

Nutrient
Boron Copper Iron Manganese Molybdenum Zinc Calcium

Source
Borax Copper sulfate Ferrous sulfate Manganous sulfate Sodium molybdate Zinc sulfate Calcium chloride Calcium nitrate

Foliar application (kg product per hectae)

2 to 5 2 to 5 2 to 3 2 to 4 0.25 to 0.50 2 to 4 5 to 10 5 to 10 10 to 15

Magnesium

Magnesium sulfate

Source: Donald N. Maynard and George J. Hochmuth, Knott's Handbook for Vegetable Growers, 4th edition (1997). Points to keep in mind to increase absorption of nutrients applied through foliar spray:

Mix spreaders like Triton X 100 wetting agents like Teepol, Sandovit, Tween 80, Tween 20, Glycerin and softeners like Magnesium sulphate, for Urea spray and lime for Zinc sulphate spray, increases absorption.

Spray should be done preferably during morning after 9 A.M. and afternoon between 3 to 4 P.M. But avoid spraying in early morning hours where leaves are found wetted with dew and frost during the night. Spraying should also be avoided after 4 P.M. because by that time stomata of leaves start closing.

Go for optimum concentration for maximum absorption of nutrients. Spray equipments also affect absorption of nutrients. There will be more absorption of nutrients when they are applied in the form of micro fine droplets so that there is complete wetting of leaves

There will be maximum absorption of nutrients when they are applied on plants having maximum number of functioning leaves (photosynthetically active leaves). Maintain 'pH of the solution round about 7. Kind of compound from which a particular element is absorbed efficiently by the leaves. For example phosphorus absorption is rapid from hypophosphate.

Fertigation In this method, fertilizers are applied to the standing crops with irrigation water. It is safe when fertilizers are applied with drip irrigation. Application through sprinkler may cause burning of foliage. Fertigation is useful method to supplement soil application. Time of application

Organic manures like farmyard manure, compost, leaf mould etc are incorporated in the soil well in advance to sowing/planting of vegetable crops. Doing so, these manures get mixed

properly in the soil and start rotting, and nutrients are released when crop plants are in need of them.

Chemical fertilizers are applied as a basal dose and in the form of top dressing. The basal is applied just one day before sowing or planting and mixed or drilled in the soil. Care is taken for the presence of sufficient soil moisture. Top dressing of fertilizer, particularly nitrogenous fertilizers is done 15 to 21 days after sowing/planting. This is time when mostly plants get established.

The time of application of foliar feeding of nitrogen and micronutrients is when plants start sowing deficiency symptoms. Precautions in fertilizer use

Go for soil testing. The amount of fertilizer(s) should be calculated based on soil test for balanced use of nutrients. Secondary nutrients like sulphur should be used either alone or through sulphur bearing fertilizers. In acid soils, calcium and magnesium should be maintained at the optimum level. Micronutrient should be applied wherever necessary. In acidic soils boron and molybdenum, and in alkaline soils, iron, zinc and manganese should be made available. Phosphate rich calcareous soils may show zinc deficiency problems.

Fertilizers should be selected on the basis of soil characteristic that is avoid acid fertilizers in acid soils and basic fertilizers in alkaline soils. Improve soil structure through the addition of organic manure and gypsum. Black and alluvial soils should be deep ploughed. Use of high yielding varieties, irrigation at an appropriate time and amounts, removal of weeds, spacing and plant population etc. should be taken care of. When above mentioned precautions are taken cares off the continuous application of fertilizers will not reduce soil fertility rather it will help in sustaining higher crop yields.

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Home/About Agriculture/Crops/Soils, Fertility and Nutrients/Micronutrients in Crop Production

SOILS, FERTILITY AND NUTRIENTS

Micronutrients in Crop Production

December 2012 Western Canadian crops require 17 essential nutrients to grow normally. Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen derived from

the air comprise more than 90 per cent of the fresh plant tissue. Macronutrients derived from the soil and needed in large amounts are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulphur (S), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg). Legumes are the exception because they fix N from the air. With a few exceptions, Ca and Mg are not limiting in Saskatchewan because of the nature of the soils. The soil supply of N, P, K, and S is often supplemented by fertilizer and manure. The remaining essential nutrients derived from the soil are referred to as micronutrients, because they are needed in small amounts. They are boron (B), chloride (Cl), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni) and zinc (Zn). Micronutrients are important for plant growth, as plants require a proper balance of all the essential nutrients for normal growth and optimum yield. Soil factors that affect the availability of micronutrients: Organic matter Mineral soils very low in organic matter, such as Gray soils, may be deficient in micronutrients.

Soil texture

Peaty and muck soils are likely to show micronutrient deficiencies. For example, peaty soils in the Carrot River and Meadow Lake areas of Saskatchewan may be deficient in Cu and Mn.

Soil pH

Sandy soils are more likely to show micronutrient deficiencies than clay soils.

Micronutrient availability generally decreases as the soil pH increases, with the exception of Mo.

Management, climatic and spatial variability Soil moisture and temperature are important. For example, cold, wet soils restrict root growth, reducing the area of soil explored by the roots. Saskatchewan soils can be cool and wet in the spring, at which time micronutrient deficiencies may show up, but disappear when the soils warm up. Deficiency of one of the macronutrients (N, P, K, or S) may also restrict the ability of the plant roots to explore for other nutrients. For example, P is important for early root formation and growth. Micronutrient deficiencies generally appear as patches in fields because micronutrient levels can vary across landscapes. For example, Cu deficiencies in northeastern Saskatchewan occur on peaty and sandy patches and eroded knolls, whereas Cu deficiency can be widespread on sandy soils. Land application of livestock manure can increase the amount of available Cu and Zn. What do you do when you suspect a micronutrient deficiency? The best was to measure the performance of a micronutrient treatment is to determine if the yield increases; or, for some crops like potatoes an improvement in quality will cover the costs of the micronutrient application and return some profit. Diagnosing micronutrient deficiencies in the field by assessing crop symptoms is difficult, even for trained agronomists. Look for "multiple evidence" before recommending a micronutrient for a whole field. A combination of crop symptoms in the field, tissue tests, soil tests, test strips, cropping history and other techniques will be used to confirm micronutrient deficiencies and economic yield responses. Take soil and plant tissue samples from the affected and unaffected areas within the same field for a complete comparative analysis. This service is available from most soil testing laboratories. Call the laboratory for sampling details for a complete comparative test. Many factors, such as macronutrient deficiency, drought, salinity, disease, insect, herbicide injury or other physiological problems can cause poor or stressed plant growth. Stressed growth may show symptoms similar to micronutrient deficiencies. Crop nutrient deficiency symptoms are specific to each crop. Management tools to help with decision making Make soil and plant tissue samples from affected and unaffected areas within the same field for a complete comparative analysis. This service is available from most soil testing laboratories. Call the laboratory for sampling details for a complete comparative test. Keep good field records; know which fields have had previous problems with micronutrients; soil test annually; and,

monitor each crop for symptoms. The amount of micronutrients needed varies by crop. Geo-reference micronutrient deficient areas within a field to make site-specific management easier. Micronutrients are expensive in comparison to macronutrients, so site-specific management makes economic sense. If all indications point to a micronutrient deficiency, then foliar apply a plant available form of the micronutrient in strips across the affected field at the appropriate crop stage to see if the micronutrient fertilizer corrects the deficiency. Alternatively, soil apply the micronutrient to a test strip across the field in question at the beginning of the next crop season and monitor crop response over more than one season. Assess the yield of treated and untreated areas to see if the yield response is economic. As over applying micronutrients can lead to toxicity levels resulting in yield loss, caution is necessary, especially with the micronutrient B. What should you do when your soil test shows a marginal level for a micronutrient? A marginal level for a composite sample would imply patches in a field may be deficient. A marginal level should be treated as a flag to monitor the field more closely for the micronutrient deficiency. A measure of need may be made by proving an economic yield response to the application of a micronutrient. The best suggestion is to apply a test strip to verify whether a micronutrient is going to give a positive yield response and to verify whether the returns are economical. If a producer decides to apply a micronutrient to an entire field, leaving a "no micronutrient applied" check strip will be beneficial in determining whether there was an economic response. If a micronutrient recommendation based on a soil and/or a tissue test is made for a field that has no history of a micronutrient deficiency, then further investigation, including crop scouting and another soil and tissue test is advisable. Crop symptoms occur when micronutrient deficiencies are moderate to severe. Micronutrient deficiencies that do not display symptoms but reduce the yield of a crop are referred to as "hidden hunger." Know the field when assessing for "hidden hunger." If soil tests over a number of years indicate that a micronutrient level is decreasing into the marginal range for that crop, then consider applying the micronutrient in test strips first to see if there is a positive yield response and if that yield response is economical. On the other hand, applying micronutrients when they are not needed may reduce yields and/or economic returns. Forms of micronutrient fertilizer Sulphate (salts) The sulphate form of micronutrients such as Cu, Zn, Fe and Mn represent a water-soluble form that is plant available. Borate is the equivalent plant available form for B. Sulphates are the most commonly used form for field crops. Sulphates can be applied to the soil or foliage. Sulphate products, applied at agronomically recommended rates, can provide long term residual value. Oxysulphate An oxysulphate is an oxide of a micronutrient that has been partially reacted with sulphuric acid. In the year of application, the oxide portion is not nearly as available as the sulphate portion. The amount of sulphate in the product varies by product. Water solubility of oxysulphates can vary greatly. It is generally accepted that a minimum of 50 per cent water solubility is required for the micronutrient to be a readily available nutrient source. In general, the higher the water solubility portion, the better. Residual value is similar to sulphates. Oxide Micronutrient elements (Cu, Zn, Fe, and Mn) bonded with oxygen form oxides. The bonds with oxygen are very strong, meaning these products are not soluble in water and are not in plant available form. An oxide of a micronutrient needs to be converted to a plant available form in the soil before being taken up by the plant. Oxides represent the final form to which other forms are eventually converted under western Canadian soil conditions, and may then be slowly converted back to plant available form. For crop response during the growing season, plant available forms (water-soluble forms) of micronutrients need to be used. Pure oxide forms are less commonly used under western Canadian conditions and may be of residual value. Chelate Micronutrients such as Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn are held within ring-type compounds. Chelated micronutrients remain in plant-available form longer because the chelated structure slows the micronutrient reaction with soil minerals. There are a large number of chelating agents. For example, a synthetic chelating agent is EDTA, and a natural chelating agent is citric acid. Chelated micronutrient products are not all equally available to the plant. Chelated micronutrients can be soil or foliar applied. Chelates are generally many times more expensive than the sulphate or oxide forms on a per pound actual micronutrient basis, but this is partly compensated for in the low recommended rate of chelate product needed to supply the micronutrient. Chelated products applied at label rates have no residual value. Soil applied chelates at recommended rates only last for one year. Follow label rates and directions. Chelates are more commonly used now than in the past. Manure Livestock manure can be a source of micronutrients such as Cu and Zn, especially since these nutrients are often

added to the feed rations. Repeated applications of manure have been shown to increase the content of available Cu and Zn in Saskatchewan soils. Other forms Carbonates and nitrates and mixtures with elemental forms are examples of other forms, but are seldom used. Soil and tissue sampling Soils should be sampled to a depth of zero to six or zero to 12 inches using proper soil sampling techniques. A soil plus tissue test for affected and unaffected areas is recommended. The comparative test helps confirm whether the problem is nutrient related. Plant tissue sampling guidelines Plant samples must be clean, but do not wash. Soil, roots, dirty hands, soiled tools, etc. can contaminate a plant tissue sample. Place samples in clean bags, preferably those provided by the laboratory. Follow laboratory instructions carefully. Tissue samples from 15 to 50 plants or 50 to 75 leaves are required, depending on the stage of the crop. It is essential that tissue samples are from the same plant parts as indicated by the laboratory, and plants must be in the same stage of development. Contact the laboratory for sampling guidelines. Scout fields early so that corrective action can be taken if necessary. Tissue samples taken during late stages of plant development may also provide information for corrective action for the next crop. Boron (B) Boron is mobile in the soil and is subject to leaching, like nitrate and sulphate. Organic matter is the main source of B in western Canadian soils. The vast majority of Saskatchewan soils contain enough organic matter to supply B for crop needs. Boron deficiencies have been suspected in alfalfa and canola on sandy and eroded sandy soils in the Gray soil zone. Boron may be limiting to seed production of alfalfa in these soils. Symptoms that appear in spring under cool and wet conditions tend to go away when soil conditions become warm and drier. Apply B in test strips to confirm economic yield response. Additions of high rates of B on soils where B is not required can result in toxicity and a reduction in yield. There is a narrow range between deficiency and toxicity, so extreme care must be taken to avoid overlap when B fertilizer is applied. The first symptoms appear in the new growth, as Boron impacts cell development, sugar and starch formation and translocation. Stunted and small plants with misshapen, thick, brittle leaves are common symptoms. Boron is not transferred easily from older to younger (upper) leaves, so younger leaves show symptoms first. In canola, the yellowing of the youngest leaves can be confused with sulphur deficiency. In alfalfa, symptoms include rosetting, yellow top, poor flowering, death of the terminal buds and poor seed set. Boron toxicity is indicated by yellowing, followed by browning of the leaf margins and tips with sharp boundaries between the yellow and/or brown and unaffected green area. Borate and borax forms of B fertilizer are most commonly used. Where B deficiencies have been proven, broadcast rates should not exceed 0.5 lb. actual B/ac. for cereals and 1.5 lb. actual B/ac. for canola. Do not seed-place B when using narrow openers. Boron is toxic when in contact with seed. Use low rates (not to exceed 0.3 lb. actual B/ac.) when foliar applying. Follow label directions for water volumes. Boron is toxic at low levels, resulting in reduced yield. Therefore, extreme care must be taken to apply B uniformly and to avoid overlap. Chloride (Cl) Chloride is a mobile nutrient in the soil. Large variations in soil Cl levels can occur over short distances. Large year to year variations also occur. Chloride in the plant is involved in controlling water loss, maintaining turgor, transportation of K, Ca and Mg within the plant, and photosynthesis. Recent research has indicated that Cl assists in reducing the incidence of root diseases as well as helps reduce the incidence of some leaf spotting diseases of winter wheat. Chloride also impacts on N uptake. For 0 to 24 in. soil samples*:

lb./ac.of Cl <30 30-60 >60

Is Considered deficient marginal adequate

* Based on criteria for winter wheat from North Dakota State University. Potash (0-0-60, 0-0-62) is the most common source of Cl. Copper (Cu) If you suspect a Cu deficiency in wheat, barley or canary seed (crops most sensitive to Cu deficiency) or flax, alfalfa (less sensitive than wheat) based on a soil or tissue sample, consider a foliar application on a test strip. If there is a Cu deficiency in that field, the result will be an economic yield response. Copper is immobile in soil. Solubility and plant availability of Cu is highly dependent on soil pH. Copper solubility increases approximately 100

fold for each unit decrease in soil pH. Copper deficiencies will most likely show up first in wheat, barley, oats or canary seed, as these crops are highly sensitive to Cu deficiency. Canola, rye, flax, and forage grasses are much less sensitive to Cu deficiency. Crop cultivars can differ widely in sensitivity to Cu deficiency. Sandy soils in the Black and Gray soil zones and peaty soils are most likely to be deficient in Cu. Where Cu and Zn are both deficient, they both must be applied to obtain a yield increase. Copper deficiencies usually occur in irregular patches within fields. High levels of soil P can also depress Cu absorption by plant roots creating the Cu deficiency. Avoid blending Cu sulphate fertilizer with other fertilizers. The blend readily absorbs moisture. Copper is involved in several enzyme systems, cell wall formation, electron transport and oxidation reactions. Copper is not readily transferred from older to younger leaves. In cereals, older leaves remain green and healthy with the newer leaves yellowing and wilting, and the leaf tips pigtailing. Excessive tillering, aborted heads, delayed maturity, prolonged flowering period and poor grain filling are also symptoms. These symptoms appear in irregular patches within fields. These patches have a "drought-like" appearance. Copper deficiency is often associated with increased incidence of root rot, stem and head melanosis (purpling, appears as brown patches in the field at maturity) and possibly may increase the incidence of ergot. High levels of soil P can also depress Cu absorption by plant roots creating the Cu deficiency. Avoid blending Cu sulphate fertilizer with other fertilizers. The blend readily absorbs moisture. Copper is involved in several enzyme systems, cell wall formation, electron transport and oxidation reactions. Copper is not readily transferred from older to younger leaves. In cereals, older leaves remain green and healthy with the newer leaves yellowing and wilting, and the leaf tips pigtailing. Excessive tillering, aborted heads, delayed maturity, prolonged flowering period and poor grain filling are also symptoms. These symptoms appear in irregular patches within fields. These patches have a "drought-like" appearance. Copper deficiency is often associated with increased incidence of root rot, stem and head melanosis (purpling, appears as brown patches in the field at maturity) and possibly may increase the incidence of ergot. Options for applying Cu under 0-till systems The best option is to broadcast and incorporate three to five lb. Cu/ac. during a year when strategic tillage takes place (a tillage operation during long-term zero-till). This will correct the Cu deficiency for several years. At lower rates (less than two lb. Cu/ac.) broadcast and incorporation of granular Cu fertilizers was not effective in increasing the yield of wheat in the year of application. However, two lb. of liquid Cu/ac. sprayed on the surface and incorporated was effective in correcting the Cu deficiency in the year of application, as well as for several years after. Seedrow or side-band 0.25 to 0.5 lb. liquid Cu/ac. Foliar apply Cu each time a Cu sensitive crop is grown in the rotation. If the Cu deficiency is severe, more than one application may be needed to correct the deficiency. The most effective method of alleviating a Cu deficiency is by broadcast and incorporation of Cu sulphate. Foliar application may not be sufficient on severely Cu deficient soils to obtain optimum yields. The least effective method is to place the granular Cu in a concentrated band. Copper sulphate and chelated forms are more readily available than the oxide form. The effectiveness of oxysulphate products depends on their solubility. To correct a severe Cu deficiency, broadcast copper sulphate at three to five lb./ac. actual Cu (or higher rates for very deficient soils) or 0.5 lb./ac. of actual Cu as chelate, then incorporate. At this rate, the Cu sulphate is effective for many years. There is no residual effect from the Cu chelate at the 0.5 lb. Cu/ac. rate. Applying Cu in the affected patches within fields is cost effective. The oxide form of Cu is released more slowly and is often not available to the plants in the year of application. Fall application of some Cu oxide products may release some plant available Cu for the following year. Copper from seed placed oxide and oxysulphate products may not become available for a number of years. Foliar applied Cu chelates or Cu sulphate can be used to correct Cu deficiencies in the growing season. They are best applied after elongation starts (first node visible) to flag leaf fully emerged stage to be effective in restoring seed yield. Foliar rates should be no less than 0.18 and no greater than 0.3 lb. actual Cu/ac. Copper applied at the four leaf stage or at heading was ineffective in restoring yield. Copper sulphate is very corrosive to application equipment. It is suggested that Cu deficiency may increase the incidence of ergot. However, the presence of ergot does not necessarily imply a Cu deficiency. Pastures low in Cu may never be fertilized enough to bring up the Cu levels in the forage in order to meet the diet needs of cattle. On the other hand, sheep have a low tolerance to Cu, storing excess in their liver over a number of years until the Cu reaches lethal levels. A recommended practice is to supplement feed rations to correct micronutrient deficiencies identified by feed testing. Livestock producers must also be aware of the Cu by Mo balance in forages to avoid problems that arise when Mo levels increase out of balance with Cu, causing poor Cu utilization in cattle. The availability of Mo to plants increases with increasing soil pH, making the balance of these nutrients an issue for high pH soils of east central Saskatchewan. Iron (Fe)

Iron deficiencies in field crops are rare in Saskatchewan. However, Fe deficiencies are more common for fruit trees, shrubs, ornamentals and strawberries especially when grown in high pH and calcareous soils. Other factors like very high P, cold and wet conditions, high lime and genetic differences in crops may result in the expression of Fe deficiency symptoms. Iron is a catalyst to chlorophyll formation, acts as an oxygen carrier, and aids in respiratory enzyme systems. Iron is not translocated within the plant, so deficiency symptoms first show up on the younger leaves. The classic Fe symptom is interveinal chlorosis, a pale green to yellow leaf with sharp distinction between green veins and yellow interveinal tissue. Foliar applied Fe chelates are most effective in correcting crop deficiencies in the growing season and are perhaps the best solution for high value crops like strawberries grown in high pH soils. Lowering the pH of soils in Saskatchewan to increase the availability of Fe does not make economic sense. For fruit trees and ornamentals, a combination of foliar applied Fe chelates and soil applied iron fertilizer may be effective for several years. Manganese (Mn) Manganese deficiencies have been reported in oat and barley grown on organic (peat) soils across the northern grain belt in Saskatchewan. Manganese is immobile in soil. Peat soils deficient in Mn and having a high pH and/or good drainage, may respond to Mn fertilization. There seems to be little or no response to soil applied Mn fertilizer on mineral soils. Where Cu and Mn are deficient, both these micronutrients need to be corrected in order to obtain a yield increase due to the strong Cu by Mn interaction. Fields in the Gray soil zone, and peaty areas where Cu has been corrected, may show Mn as the next limiting micronutrient. Consequently, scout these fields for Mn deficiency symptoms. Manganese is a component in enzyme systems. Manganese activates several important metabolic reactions, aids in chlorophyll synthesis, accelerates germination and maturity, and increases the availability of P and Ca. Manganese is not translocated in the plant, so symptoms first appear on younger leaves. There appears to be some translocation of Mn in oat. Yellowing between the veins is the main deficiency symptom and can be confused with iron deficiency. Gray speck of oat is the most common symptom, with the gray specks appearing in interveinal areas. Severe Mn deficiency in oat can cause significant loss in yield. Seed-placed Mn sulphate, at two to 10 lb. actual Mn/ac. (based on soil test recommendations) is recommended as the most effective means of correcting Mn deficiency in peaty soils. However, foliar applied Mn sulphate at one pound per acre is also effective. Broadcast applications are not economical. Molybdenum (Mo) Molybdenum deficiency has not been identified in Saskatchewan. Molybdenum is needed in very small amounts, so treating the seed is probably the most common way to correct this deficiency should it occur. Livestock producers must also be aware of the Cu by Mo balance in forages to avoid problems that arise when Mo levels increase out of balance with Cu, causing poor Cu utilization in cattle. The availability of Mo to plants increases with increasing soil pH, making the balance of these nutrients an issue for high pH soils of east central Saskatchewan. Zinc (Zn) Zinc is immobile in soil. Zinc deficiencies may occur on calcareous, high pH, sandy texture, high P, and eroded soils. Zinc deficiencies usually show up under cool, wet conditions in early spring when root growth is slow. Poorly drained soils may also be deficient. Badly eroded soils and eroded knolls may be low in Zn. Soil test to be sure. Deficiency symptoms will most likely show up first in dry bean and lentil has been identified as potentially responsive to Zn fertilization. Very high rates of P may induce Zn deficiency in flax. Zinc is involved in enzyme systems and metabolic reactions, and is necessary for production of chlorophyll and carbohydrates. Zinc is not generally translocated within the plant (but is partly mobile in wheat and barley), so the first symptoms appear on the younger leaves. Symptoms differ from one species to another. In wheat and barley, the older leaves may have light blotches between the veins. Younger leaves will have a normal green colour and will be smaller. In flax, grayish brown spots appear on the younger leaves with shortened internodes appearing stunted. The best practice has been to broadcast and incorporate Zn as a pre-plant application. This should provide several years effectiveness. Chelates are foliar applied to correct Zn deficiency during the growing season but have little residual value. Oxide forms of Zn may have limited effectiveness in the year of application, but may be used to provide residual effect. Oxysulphate forms may provide some immediate plant need as well as a residual effect. The higher the percentage of sulphate (soluble and plant available) fraction, the more Zn will be in the plant available form. Band two to five lb. actual Zn/ac. in the sulphate form. Foliar apply 0.3 lb. actual Zn/ac. chelated form. Severely Zn deficient bean crops may require two foliar applications to correct the deficiency. Table 1. Recommended methods of application of generalized categories of micronutrient products.*

Nutrient

Fertilizer form Sulphate

Time of Broadcast soil and application incorporate Spring or 3.5-5 lb.

Band

Seed-placed

Foliar

Copper

Not

Not

Not

Oxysulphate >60% solubility Oxysulphate <50% solubility Chelated Zinc Sulphate Oxysulphate <50% solubility Chelated Manganese Sulphate Chelated Boron Sodium Borate

fall

Cu/ac.

recommended recommended recommended1

Fall

5 lb. Cu/ac. 0.5 lb. Cu/ac. 3.5-5 lb. Zn/ac. 5-10 lb. Zn/ac. 1 lb. Zn/ac. 50-80 lb Mn/ac.2

Not Not Not recommended recommended recommended Not 0.25-0.5 lb. recommended Cu/ac. 0.2-0.25 lb. Cu/ac.

Spring Spring or fall Fall

Not Not Not recommended recommended recommended Not Not Not recommended recommended recommended Not Needs recommended verification Not recommended 4-20 lb. Mn/ac. 0.3-0.4 lb. Zn/ac. Not recommended 0.5-1 lb. Mn/ac.

Spring Spring Spring Spring

Not Not Not recommended recommended recommended 0.5-1.5 lb. B/ac.

Needs Not 0.3-0.5 lb./ac. verification recommended

1Although foliar applications of copper sulphate are effective, the product is extremely corrosive. 2Broadcast and incorporated rates of manganese are generally uneconomical. * Based on research in western Canada. For more information: - Contact your nearest Regional Crops Specialist; or - Phone the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377. RELATED DOCUMENTS

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Fertilizers - Methods of Applying Fertilizer

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

The following methods are adopted to apply fertilizers-

Application of fertilizer in solid form

Placement Inserting or drilling or placing the fertilizer below the soil surface by means of any tool or implement at desired depth to supply plant nutrients to crop before sowing or in the standing crop is called placement. With placement methods, fertilizers are placed in the soil irrespective of the position of seed, seedling or growing plants before sowing or after sowing the crops. The following methods are most common in this category. 1. 2. 3. 4. Plough - Sole Placement Deep Placement of Nitrogenous Fertilizers Sub - Soil Placement Localised Placement

Plough - Sole Placement: In this method, the fertilizer is placed in a continuous band on the bottom of the furrow during the process of ploughing. Each band is covered as the next furrow is turned. No attempt is usually made to sow the crop in any particular location with regard to the plough sole bands. This method has been recommended in areas where the soil becomes quite dry up to a few inches below the soil surface during the growing season, and especially with soils having a heavy clay pan a little below the ploughsole. By this method, fertilizer is placed in moist soil where it can become more available to growing plants during dry seasons. Deep Placement of Nitrogenous Fertilizers - This method of application of nitrogenous and phosphatic fertilizers is adopted in paddy fields on a large scale in Japan and is also recommended in India. In this method, ammonical nitrogenous fertilizer like ammonium sulphate or ammonium forming nitrogenous fertilizer like urea is placed in the reduction zone, where it remains in ammonia form and is available to the crop during the active vegetative period. Deep or sub-surface placement of the fertilizer also ensures better distribution in the root zone and prevents any loss by surface drain-off. Deep placement is done in different ways, depending upon the local cultivation practices. In irrigated tracts, where the water supply is assured, the fertilizer is applied under the plough furrow in the dry soil before flooding the land and making it ready for transplanting. In areas where there is not too much of water in the field, it is broadcast before puddling. Puddling places the fertilizer deep into the root zone. Sub - Soil Placement - This refers to the placement of fertilizers in the sub-soil with the help of heavy power machinery. This method is recommended in humid and sub-humid regions where many sub-soils are strongly acidic. Due to acidic conditions the level of available plant nutrients is extremely low. Under these conditions, fertilizers, especially phosphatic and potassic are placed in the sub-soil for better root development. Localised Placement - This method refers to the application of fertilizers into the soil close to the seed or plant. Localised placement is usually employed when relatively small quantities of fertilizers are to be applied. Localised placement reduces fixation of phosphorus and potassium. Broadcast This method refers to the uniform application of fertilizers across the entire soil surface. This may be done before the land is ploughed, immediately before planting, or while the crop is standing. Fertilizers may be broadcast on the surface then tilled or watered into soil, or banded on or beneath the soil surface. Broadcasting is efficient and often the method of choice in areas with perennial plants. 1. 2. Broadcasting at planting Topdressing

Broadcasting at planting- This method helps to distribute the fertilizer evenly and to incorporate it with part of, or throughout the plough layer.

Topdressing - Nitrogenous fertilizers containing nitrate nitrogen, like sadium nitrate, calcium ammonium nitrate etc are applied as topdressing to closely-spaced crops. In addition urea is also topdressed. This helps in supplying nitrogen in readily available form to growing plants.

Application of fertilizer in liquid form

1. 2. 3. Foliar Application Starter solution Application through irrigation water

Foliar Application This refers to the spraying on leaves of growing plants with suitable fertilizer solutions. These solutions may be prepared in a low concentration to supply any one plant nutrient or a combination of nutrients.

1. 2. 3. 4.

It has been well established that all plant nutrients are absorbed through the leaves of plants and this absorption is remarkable rapid for some nutrients. Foliar application does not result in a great saving of fertilizer but it may be preferred under the following conditions. When visual symptoms of nutrient deficiencies observed during early stages of deficiency. When unfavourable soil physical and chemical conditions, which reduce fertilizer use efficiency (FUE). During drought period where in the soil application could not be done for want of soil moisture. There are certain difficulties associated with the foliar application of nutrients as detailed below: Marginal leaf burn or scorching may occur if strong solutions are used. As solutions of low concentrations (usually three to six per cent) are to be used, only small quantities of nutrients can be applied in single spray. Several applications are needed for moderate to high fertilizer rates, and hence Foliar spraying of fertilizers is costly compared to soil application, unless combined with other spraying operations taken up for insect or disease control.

Starter Solutions The use of liquid fertilizers as a means of fertilization has assumed considerable importance in foreign countries. Solutions of fertilizers, generally consisting of N, P2O5, K2O in the ratio of 1 : 2 : 1 and 1 : 1 : 2 are applied to young vegetable plants at the time of transplanting. These solutions are known as 'Starter Solutions'. They are used in place of the watering that is usually given to help the plants to establish. Only a small amount of fertilizer is applied as a starter solution. Application through irrigation water Fertilizers are allowed to dissolve in the irrigation stream. The nutrients are thus carried into the soil in solution. This save the application cost and allows the utilization of relatively inexpensive waters.

Application Timing
Fertilizer should be applied when plants need it, when it will be most effective, and when plants can readily take it up. Late summer and early fall fertilization may stimulate new growth that is not winter hardy, and summer drought may interfere with nutrient uptake, but spring, fall, and winter applications are acceptable. A split application may be beneficial, applying half the yearly rate in early spring and the rest in the fall as or after plants go dormant. If water is unavailable, do not fertilize at all - plants will be unable to absorb the nutrients. (During a dry season, application of fertilizer through an irrigation system - can be beneficial.) Commonly Used Fertilizer in the District: Inorganic Fertilizer:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Urea DAP MOP SSP Adhor (NPK with Micronutrient)

Organic Fertilizer: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Dhartikhol Godrej Vikas Neem Godrej Vikas (Special) Adhor Organic Manure Mahalaxmi Organic Manure Neemshield

BioFertilizers: 1. 2. 3. 4. Neemaphos Azotobacter Azospirillum Rhizobium

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Methods Of Fertilizer Application

In order to get maximum benefit from manures and fertilizers, they should not only be applied in proper time and in right manner but any other aspects should also be given careful consideration. Different soils react differently with fertilizer application. Similarly, the N, P, K requirements of different crops are different and even for a single a crop the nutrient requirements are not the same at different stages of growth. The aspects that require consideration in fertilizer application are listed below: 1. Availability of nutrients in manures and fertilizers. 2. Nutrient requirements of crops at different stages of crop growth. 3. Time of application. 4. Methods of application, placement of fertilizers. 5. Foliar application. 6. Crop response to fertilizers application and interaction of N, P, and K. 7. Residual effect of manures and fertilizers. 8. Crop response to different nutrient carrier. 9. Unit cost of nutrients and economics of manuring. Fertilizers are applied by different methods mainly for 3 purposes: 1. To make the nutrients easily available to crops, 2. To reduce fertilizer losses and 3. for ease of application. The time and method of fertilizer application vary in relation to 1) The nature of fertilizer. 2) Soil type and 3) The differences in nutrient requirement and nature of field crops.

Application of fertilizers in solid form: It includes the methods like (See chart):
I) Broadcasting: Even and uniform spreading of manure or fertilizers by hand over the entire surface of field while cultivation or after the seed is sown in standing crop, termed as broad casting. Depending upon the time of fertilizer

application, there are two types of broadcasting: A) Broadcasting at planting and B) Top dressing. A) Broadcasting at planting: Broadcasting of manure and fertilizers is done at planting or sowing of the crops with the following objectives: 1) To distribute the fertilizer evenly and to incorporate it with part of, or throughout the plough layer and 2) To apply larger quantities that can be safely applied at the time of planting/sowing with a seed-cum-fertilizer driller. It is adopted with the following condition: 1) When N-ous fertilizers like amm. Sulphate, Amm. Sulphate Nitrate, Concentrated organic manures, are to be applied to the soil deficient in N or where N is exhausted by previous crops like fodder, Jowar, F. maize. 2) When citrate soluble P-tic fertilizers like basic slag and dia-calcium phosphate, are to be applied to moderately acid to strongly acid soils. 3) When K-ssic fertilizers like Muriate of potash and potassium sulphate are to be applied in potash deficient soil. B) Top dressing: Spreading or broadcasting of fertilizers in the standing crop (after emergence of crop) is known as top-dressing. Generally, NO3 N fertilizers are top dressed to the closely spaced crops like wheat, paddy. E.g.: Sodium Nitrate, Amm. Nitrate and urea, so as to supply N in readily available from the growing plants. The term side dressing refers to the fertilizer placed beside the rows of a crop (widely spaced) like maize or cotton. Care must be taken in top dressing that the fertilizer is not applied when the leaves are wet or it may burn or scorch the leaves. The top dressing of P and K is ordinarily done only on pasture lands which occupy the land for several years. In some countries, aero planes are used for fertilizer application in hill terrains where it is difficult to transport fertilizers and where large amount are to be applied because of severe deficiency and under following situations: 1. Where very small quantities of fertilizers are needed over large areas. E.g.: Micro nutrients. 2. When high analysis materials are applied. 3. When fertilizer application may be combined

with insect control or some other air operation and 4. As a labour and time saving device.

II) Placement: In this, the fertilizers are placed in the soil irrespective of the position of seed, seedling or growing plant before or after sowing of the crops. It includes: 1. Plough sole placement: The fertilizer is placed in a continuous band on the bottom of the furrow during the process of ploughing. Each band is covered as the next furrow is turned. By this method, fertilizer is placed in moist soil where it can become more available to growing plants during dry seasons. It results in less fixation of P & K than that which occurs normally when fertilizers are broadcast over the entire soil surface. 2. Deep placement or sub-surface placement: In this method, fertilizers like Amm. Sulphate and Urea, is placed in the reduction zone as in paddy fields, where it remains in ammonia form and is available to the crop during the active vegetative period. It ensures better distribution in the root zone, and prevents any loss by surface runoff. It is followed in different ways, depending upon local cultivation practices such as: i) Irrigated tracts: The fertilizer is applied under the plough furrow in the dry soil before flooding the land and making it ready for transplanting. ii) Less water condition: Fertilizer is broadcasted before puddling which places it deep into the reduction zone. iii) Sub soil placement: This refers to the placement of fertilizers in the sub-soil with the help of heavy power machinery. It is followed in humid and sub-humid regions where many subsoils are strongly acid, due to which the level of available plant nutrients is extremely low. P-tic and K-ssic fertilizers are applied by this method in these regions for better root development. III) Localized placement: It refers to the application of fertilizers into the soil close to the seed or plant. It is usually employed when relatively small quantities of fertilizers are to be applied. It includes methods like:

Advantages: i) The roots of the young plant are assured of an adequate supply of nutrients, ii) Promotes a rapid early growth, iii) Make early Intercultivation possible for better weed control, iv) Reduces fixation of P & K. 1. Contact placement or combined drilling or drill placement: It refers to the drilling of seed and fertilizer together while sowing. It places the seed and small quantities of fertilizers in the same row. This is found useful in cereal crops, cotton and grasses but not for pulses and legumes. This may affect the germination of the seed, particularly in legumes due to excessive concentration of soluble salts. 2. Band placement: In this, fertilizer is placed in bands which may be continuous or discontinuous to the side of seedling, some distances away from it and either at level with the seed, above the seed level or below the seed level. There are two types of band placement: It includes hill and row placement. a. Hill placement: When the plants are spaced 3 ft. or more on both sides, fertilizers are placed close to the plant in bands son one or both sides of the plants. The length and depth of the band and its distance from plant varies with the crop and the amount of fertilizer as in cotton. b) Row placement: When the seeds or plants are sown close together in a row, the fertilizer is put in continuous band on one or both sides of the one or both sides of the row by hand or a seed drill. It is practiced for sugarcane, potato, maize, tobacco, cereals and vegetable crops. Higher rates of fertilizers are possible with row placement than hill placement. For applying small amount of fertilizers, hill placement is usually most effective. 3. Pellet application: In this method, fertilizer (N-ous fertilizers) is applied in the form of pellets 2.5 5.0 cm. deep between the rows of paddy crop. Fertilizer is mixed with soil in the ratio of 1:10 and make into dough. Small pellets of a convenient size are then made and deposited in the soft mud of paddy fields. It increases the efficiency of N-ous fertilizers. 4. Side dressing: Fertilizers are spread in between the rows or around the plants. It

includes i) application of N-ous fertilizers in between the rows by hand to broad row crops like maize, S.cane tobacco, cereals which is done to supply additional doses of N to the growing crop. ii) Application of mixed or straight fertilizer around the base of the fruit trees and done once, twice or thrice in a year depending upon age.
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