We solve the 6 big questions about fertilisation types
Success in plant development is directly linked to the availability of certain substances, such as phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen. Therefore, it is necessary to apply fertilisers.
This task, however, requires planning since it is necessary to know the different types of fertilisation and best practices. Naturally, many doubts may arise. After all, the nutritional needs of cultures vary according to several factors.
Therefore, in this content, we will answer some of the main questions about fertilisation raised by farmers.
1. What types of fertilisation are there?
Fertilisers can be categorised into two groups: minerals and organics.
Mineral fertilisation
Mineral fertiliser is also known as chemical fertiliser. It is a product of petroleum refining or mineral extraction. Here we can list chlorides, carbonates, and phosphates, for example.
They have a well-defined composition, being able to accurately determine the amount applied in each operation.
On the market, the product is known as NPK fertiliser — N (nitrogen), P (phosphorus) and K (potassium). However, one of the recommended compositions with the most balance is NPK 10-10-10, in 50 g/m² applications.
This type of fertilisation is very concentrated. Therefore, it usually comes in granules, which are applied to the soil and dissolved gradually. Thus, the product does not come into direct contact with the plants’ roots.
Organic fertilisation
This type of fertiliser is generated by matter of animal or plant origin, such as;
- plant remains;
- flours;
- shells;
- manure.
To form the fertiliser, these residues must go through a composting process, in which microorganisms transform organic matter into a compound very similar to the soil. As a result, the product is rich in macronutrients.
2. Why is this process important for harvesting?
Fertilisation is essential to strengthen the soil with nutrients that conserve or recover its fertility. This promotes the healthy development of crops and increases agricultural productivity.
It is noteworthy that the soil will not always have the nutrients necessary for plant growth. This can occur due to natural wear or land depletion after repeated harvests in monoculture and erosion, leaching, and excess rainfall.
In this scenario, fertilisation will enrich the soil to supply nutritional deficiencies. These nutrients will have important functions throughout plant growth, such as energy generation and structuring.
3. What to consider when choosing the best type of fertilisation?
Each choice has advantages and disadvantages. Usually, however, a combination between the two types of fertilisation is recommended to seek a balance by extracting the benefits of each.
Advantages of organic compost
- Greater aggregation of soil particles. This results in a more structured soil that is more resistant to erosion and leaching processes;
- More stable soil temperature, with less stress to the roots;
- Increased soil capacity to absorb substances that would be harmful to the plant, such as aluminium;
- Supply of beneficial substances, such as calcium and potassium, and greater availability of nutrients through mineralisation;
- Increased water retention capacity;
- Bacterial flora and microfauna in the soil.
Advantages of mineral fertiliser
- Faster and easier absorption by plants, bringing short-term results;
- Nutrient applications in measurable amounts. This allows greater accuracy when there is variability in nutrient deficiency in the crop.
In any case, it is necessary to be very careful when planning fertilisation. For this, it is recommended to assess the soil conditions to determine which are the best alternatives.
4. What types of fertilising machinery are there?
Fertilisation can be done by different machinery, as listed below.
Planter
The planter is used for fertilisation when fertiliser is applied directly to the soil in the sowing line. In this case, the operation is done simultaneously with planting, depositing the product just below the seeds.
Fertilisers with a tossing distribution system
In the tossing fertilisation system, the work is done by machines with distributors in rotary discs with shovels, which toss the granules in a programmed strip.
Sprays
Sprayers can also do fertilisation through foliar application. The machine sprays the diluted fertiliser into the water, and the plant absorbs the nutrients from the leaves.
5. How to choose the right machinery for fertilisation?
The choice will depend on the soil and climate conditions, crop characteristics, and stage of development.
Thus, if the chosen method is the foliar application, the sprays are the right way. On the other hand, if the objective is to apply the product directly to the soil, fertilisation can be done in the planting line utilizing planters or distribution machines.
Another essential aspect to be analysed is the choice between automotive or driven machines, according to the needs of the crop and the resources that the producer already has at their disposal.
6. Why is it advantageous to mechanise work on the farm?
In all agricultural operations, mechanisation will bring gains to farm results. After all, the evolution in application technologies is a natural progression, ensuring the farmer meets an increasing demand. When mechanising the process, the following benefits will be perceived:
- Time gain: it becomes evident how the entire fertilisation operation becomes much more agile. With best practices and equipment for applying fertilisers, it is possible to do so on large properties in a shorter time frame;
- Lower costs: in addition to reducing labour costs, the farmer can increase their financial return in the harvest;
- Failure reduction: through intelligent systems provided by precision agriculture, it is possible to map the conditions of the crop and soil, applying according to the demand of each farm;
- Lower environmental impact: fault reduction prevents overlap between applications and contamination of natural resources. Without excess, there will be no accumulation of the product in the soil, preventing it from being taken to rivers and other springs.
The adoption of quality equipment gives the farmer the conditions to accurately set distribution and dosage standards, adjusting the application perfectly to the needs of the soil and plant.
Have you been able to answer your questions about the different types of fertilisation? So don’t waste time! Contact our team to find out the best solution for your crop!
