Fertilizers

Fertilizers

All Plants need certain mineral nutrients to survive. These Minerals occur naturally in the Soil and are taken up from the soil by the roots of the plants. Most soils usually have enough of these minerals to keep plants healthy.
However, some nutrients are gradually used up by the plants, or are washed out of the soil, and need to be replaced to maintain optimal Growth and appearance.
The most common mineral nutrients that need replacing are Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K).
The term “fertilizer material” means a commercial fertilizer containing one or more of the recognized plant nutrients, which is used primarily for its plant nutrient content.
Fertilizers are derived from a wide variety of natural and manufactured materials and are sold in solid, liquid and gaseous form (anhydrous ammonia). These materials are designed for use or claimed to have value in promoting plant growth or increasing plant-available nutrient levels in soils.

Complete versus Incomplete Fertilizer

A fertilizer is said to be a complete or mixed fertilizer when it contains nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (the primary nutrients). Examples of commonly used complete fertilizers are 6-12-12, 10-10-10, 15-15-15 and 20-10-10.
An incomplete fertilizer will be missing one or more of the major components. Examples of incomplete fertilizers are: 34-0-0 (ammonium nitrate), 46-0-0 (urea), 18-46-0 (diammonium phosphate), 0-46-0 (triple super phosphate) and 0-0-60 (muriate of potash).
Incomplete fertilizers are blended to make complete fertilizers. As an example, if 100 pounds of 46-0-0 (urea) were combined with 100 pounds of 0-46-0 (concentrated super phosphate) and 100 pounds of 0-0-60 (muriate of potash), a fertilizer grade of 15-15-20 would result. When these quantities are combined, each quantity is diluted by the other two materials by one-third, provided each fertilizer material contributed equal weight to the blend

Imbalance in use of fertilizers in India

The manufacture, sale, and distribution of fertilizers in the country is regulated by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
There are three major types of nutrients used as fertilizers: Nitrogen (N), Phosphatic (P), and Potassic (K). Of these, the pricing of urea (containing N fertilizer) is controlled by the government, while P and K fertilizers were decontrolled in 1992, on the recommendation of a Joint Parliamentary Committee.
It has been observed that urea is used more than other fertilizers. While the recommended ratio of use of the NPK fertilizers is 4:2:1, this ratio in India is currently at 6.7:2.4:1. Overuse of urea is especially observed in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.
An imbalanced use of urea may lead to a loss of fertility in the soil over a period of time, affecting productivity.
Urea (N) is the most produced (86%), consumed (74%) and imported (52%) fertilizer in the country. The government determines the quantity of fertilizers to be imported based on their domestic availability.
However, the process of fixing the quantity to be imported and actually receiving the imports takes about 60-70 days, since only three companies are allowed to import urea into the country.
Thus shortages are often caused in the urea market. Since farmers have to ensure that urea is applied to their crops on time, it leads to the growth of black markets selling urea, often at prices above the maximum retail prices.
The level of fertilizer required for a crop depends upon the soil type, level of yield, and water availability, in addition to the type of crop.
Certain crops such as rice, wheat, maize, Cotton and sugarcane require larger quantities of nitrogen as compared to pulses, fruits and vegetables.
Although the ratio of N, P, and K fertilizer usage across crops has increased, the quantity of fertilizers used by India is still lower as compared to other countries.
The Average consumption of fertilizers increased from 106 kg per ha in 2005-06 to 128 kg per ha in 2012-13. In comparison, Pakistan consumes 205 kg per ha and China consumes 396 kg per ha.
To meet the production target of 300 million tonnes of food grains by 2025 which was mentioned earlier, 45 million tonne of fertilizers would be required. Of this, 6-7 million tonnes may be met from organic fertilizers, but the rest would be met by chemical fertilizers (containing N, P and K). The domestic production of fertilizers would have to be increased to meet this demand.

Nutrient based subsidy policy for Fertilizers

The central government launched the nutrient based subsidy policy (NBS) in 2010 for P and K fertilizers. The policy was formulated with the objective of promoting a balanced use of N, P and K fertilizers.
The policy allowed the manufacturers of P and K fertilizers to fix their maximum retail prices (MRPs) at reasonable levels. The subsidy provided would be based on per kilogram of the nutrient.
The policy also provided for an additional subsidy to be paid to indigenous manufacturers of fertilizers.
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India, in its report on the performance of the NBS policy stated that in the five years since its implementation, the policy had not succeeded in bringing about a balanced use of fertilizers. The fertilizer usage ratio of urea increased from 4.3 in 2009-10 to 8.2 in 2012-13.

Fertilizer Subsidy in India

To promote the use of fertilizers by farmers, the central government provides a fertilizer subsidy to the producers of fertilizers.
In 2017-18, Rs 70,000 crore has been allocated for fertilizer subsidy, which is the second biggest expenditure on subsidy after food subsidy.
Allocations for fertilizer subsidy have been increasing at an annual rate of 11.4% between 2000 and 2016. Of the subsidy allocated for 2017-18, Rs 49,768 crore has been allocated for subsidy on urea.
Currently the amount of subsidy to be given is determined based on the cost of production of the fertilizer company. Companies with a higher cost of production receive greater subsidies. This reduces the companies’ incentive to reduce their cost of production.
Although the consumption of urea has been increasing over the past decade, no new domestic production capacity has been added in the past 15 years.
A Committee that examined the role of Food Corporation of India recommended that cash transfers should be made to farmers to replace the current fertilizer subsidy regime. This would allow farmers to choose fertilizers in the combination best suited to their needs, and help them to fix the fertilizer imbalance in soil.
In the Union Budget 2016-17, it was announced that a direct benefit transfer program for fertilizers would be launched on a pilot basis in a few districts across the country. In July 2016, the government announced that it would be conducting pilot studies of direct benefit transfers in 16 districts in 2016-17

Fertilizers are substances that are added to soil to improve its fertility and increase crop yields. They can be organic or inorganic, and they come in a variety of forms, including liquids, powders, and granules.

The most common type of fertilizer is nitrogen fertilizer. Nitrogen is essential for plant growth, and it helps plants produce chlorophyll, which is necessary for Photosynthesis. Nitrogen fertilizers can be either organic or inorganic. Organic nitrogen fertilizers include manure, compost, and Bone Meal. Inorganic nitrogen fertilizers include ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, and urea.

Phosphorus is another essential plant nutrient. It is involved in energy production, cell division, and root growth. Phosphorus fertilizers can be either organic or inorganic. Organic phosphorus fertilizers include rock phosphate and bone meal. Inorganic phosphorus fertilizers include ammonium phosphate and diammonium phosphate.

Potassium is the third essential plant nutrient. It is involved in water regulation, photosynthesis, and Protein Synthesis. Potassium fertilizers can be either organic or inorganic. Organic potassium fertilizers include kelp meal and wood ash. Inorganic potassium fertilizers include potassium chloride and potassium sulfate.

Fertilizers can be applied to soil in a variety of ways. They can be broadcast over the soil surface, banded along rows of crops, or injected into the soil. The best way to apply fertilizer depends on the type of fertilizer, the crop being grown, and the soil type.

Fertilizers can be beneficial for plants, but they can also be harmful if they are not used properly. Too much fertilizer can damage plants and pollute water supplies. It is important to read the label on any fertilizer before using it, and to follow the directions carefully.

Here are some of the benefits of using fertilizers:

Increased crop yields: Fertilizers can help plants grow larger and produce more fruit or vegetables.
Improved plant Health: Fertilizers can help plants resist disease and pests.
Improved soil quality: Fertilizers can help improve the structure and fertility of soil.

Here are some of the risks of using fertilizers:

Water Pollution: Fertilizers can runoff into waterways and pollute water supplies.
Eutrophication: Fertilizers can cause algae blooms in waterways, which can block sunlight and suffocate aquatic life.
Soil contamination: Fertilizers can contaminate soil with heavy metals and other pollutants.
Plant damage: Too much fertilizer can damage plants and stunt their growth.

It is important to use fertilizers safely and responsibly to avoid these risks. Here are some tips for using fertilizers safely:

Read the label: Before using any fertilizer, read the label carefully and follow the directions.
Apply the right amount: Do not apply more fertilizer than the label recommends.
Apply at the right time: Apply fertilizer at the correct time of year, according to the crop being grown and the soil type.
Use the right type of fertilizer: Choose a fertilizer that is appropriate for the crop being grown and the soil type.
Rotate crops: Rotating crops can help prevent the build-up of harmful chemicals in the soil.
test the soil: Test the soil before applying fertilizer to determine the nutrient levels.
Use organic fertilizers: Organic fertilizers are less likely to pollute water supplies and contaminate soil.

Fertilizers can be a valuable tool for improving crop yields and soil quality. However, it is important to use them safely and responsibly to avoid the risks associated with overuse.

What is a fertilizer?

A fertilizer is a substance that is used to enrich the soil and improve plant growth. Fertilizers can be organic or inorganic, and they can be applied to the soil in a variety of ways.

What are the different types of fertilizers?

There are many different types of fertilizers, but they can be broadly divided into two categories: organic and inorganic. Organic fertilizers are made from natural materials such as manure, compost, and bone meal. Inorganic fertilizers are made from synthetic chemicals.

What are the benefits of using fertilizers?

Fertilizers can help to improve plant growth by providing plants with the nutrients they need. This can lead to larger, healthier plants with more flowers or fruit. Fertilizers can also help to improve soil quality by adding nutrients and organic matter.

What are the risks of using fertilizers?

Fertilizers can be harmful to the Environment if they are not used properly. Overuse of fertilizers can pollute water supplies and contribute to the growth of algae blooms. Fertilizers can also be harmful to wildlife if they are not applied carefully.

How do I choose the right fertilizer for my plants?

The best way to choose the right fertilizer for your plants is to consult with a local nursery or garden center. They can help you to select a fertilizer that is appropriate for the type of plants you are growing and the Climate in your area.

How do I apply fertilizer?

The best way to apply fertilizer depends on the type of fertilizer you are using. Organic fertilizers can be applied to the soil as a top dressing or worked into the soil before planting. Inorganic fertilizers can be applied as a liquid or a dry powder.

How often should I fertilize my plants?

The frequency of fertilizing depends on the type of plants you are growing and the climate in your area. Most plants should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.

What are some common problems with fertilizers?

Some common problems with fertilizers include:

Overuse of fertilizers can pollute water supplies and contribute to the growth of algae blooms.
Fertilizers can be harmful to wildlife if they are not applied carefully.
Fertilizers can burn plants if they are applied too heavily or too close to the plant’s roots.

What are some tips for using fertilizers safely?

Here are some tips for using fertilizers safely:

Read the label carefully before using any fertilizer.
Apply fertilizers according to the directions on the label.
Do not apply fertilizers to plants that are stressed or diseased.
Wash your hands thoroughly after handling fertilizers.
Store fertilizers in a safe place, out of reach of children and pets.

Which of the following is not a type of fertilizer?
(A) Organic fertilizer
(B) Inorganic fertilizer
(C) Chemical fertilizer
(D) Biological fertilizer
Which of the following is the most common type of fertilizer?
(A) Organic fertilizer
(B) Inorganic fertilizer
(C) Chemical fertilizer
(D) Biological fertilizer
Organic fertilizers are made from:
(A) Animal manure, compost, and other plant materials
(B) Minerals and chemicals
(C) Bacteria and other Microorganisms
(D) None of the above
Inorganic fertilizers are made from:
(A) Animal manure, compost, and other plant materials
(B) Minerals and chemicals
(C) Bacteria and other microorganisms
(D) None of the above
Chemical fertilizers are made from:
(A) Animal manure, compost, and other plant materials
(B) Minerals and chemicals
(C) Bacteria and other microorganisms
(D) None of the above
Biological fertilizers are made from:
(A) Animal manure, compost, and other plant materials
(B) Minerals and chemicals
(C) Bacteria and other microorganisms
(D) None of the above
Which of the following is the best type of fertilizer to use?
(A) Organic fertilizer
(B) Inorganic fertilizer
(C) Chemical fertilizer
(D) Biological fertilizer
Organic fertilizers are better for the environment than inorganic fertilizers because:
(A) They are made from natural materials
(B) They release nutrients slowly over time
(C) They do not pollute the water
(D) All of the above
Inorganic fertilizers are better for the environment than organic fertilizers because:
(A) They are more efficient at providing nutrients to plants
(B) They are less expensive
(C) They are easier to use
(D) All of the above
Chemical fertilizers are better for the environment than organic fertilizers because:
(A) They are more efficient at providing nutrients to plants
(B) They are less expensive
(C) They are easier to use
(D) All of the above
Which of the following is the best way to apply fertilizer?
(A) Broadcast application
(B) Band application
(C) Side dressing
(D) Foliar application
Broadcast application is the best way to apply fertilizer when:
(A) You want to fertilize the entire area
(B) You want to fertilize a specific area
(C) You want to fertilize the leaves of the plants
(D) None of the above
Band application is the best way to apply fertilizer when:
(A) You want to fertilize the entire area
(B) You want to fertilize a specific area
(C) You want to fertilize the leaves of the plants
(D) None of the above
Side dressing is the best way to apply fertilizer when:
(A) You want to fertilize the entire area
(B) You want to fertilize a specific area
(C) You want to fertilize the leaves of the plants
(D) None of the above
Foliar application is the best way to apply fertilizer when:
(A) You want to fertilize the entire area
(B) You want to fertilize a specific area
(C) You want to fertilize the leaves of the plants
(D) None of the above
How often should you fertilize your plants?
(A) Once a month
(B) Twice a month
(C) Three times a month
(D) Once a week
How much fertilizer should you use?
(A) Use as much fertilizer as you can
(B) Use as little fertilizer as you can
(C) Use the amount of fertilizer recommended on the label
(D) None of the above
What are the benefits of fertilizing your plants?
(A) Fertilized plants will be healthier and produce more fruit or flowers
(B) Fertilized plants will be less likely to get diseases
(C) Fertilized plants will be more resistant to pests
(D) All of the above
What are the risks of fertilizing your plants?
(A) Over-fertilized plants can be damaged
(B) Fertilized plants can become invasive
(C) Fertilized plants can pollute the water
(D) All of the above
How can you avoid the risks of fertilizing your plants?
(A) Use the amount of fertilizer