Learning Outcomes:
- To explain the difference between organic and inorganic fertiliser
- To list the different types of fertilisers.
- To explain the numbers on a bag of fertiliser in terms of nutrient supplied
Organic Materials
RB209 section 2
Information on the nutrient content of organic materials, such as manures, compost and digestate.
Go to AHDB Website and download resource
RB209 Video Playlist
Types of Fertilisers.
Fertilisers are essential for modern agriculture, boosting crop yields and ensuring healthy plant growth. But with so many types available, it can be tricky to determine which is best for a specific crop or soil type. We’ll explore the main types of crop fertilisers and their applications.
1. Organic Fertilisers
Organic fertilisers come from natural sources like plant residues, animal manure, and compost. They enrich the soil with organic matter and nutrients while improving its structure.
Examples:
- Farmyard manure (FYM): A mixture of dung, urine, and bedding materials, ideal for improving soil fertility.
- Other Organic Manures
- Biosolids
- Treated sewage sludge
- Compost
- Decomposed ‘green waste’ mix ‘green waste + food waste’
- Digestate
- One of products of anaerobic digestion
- Waste Derived Materials
- Recycling of industrial waste
- Paper Crumble
- Spent mushroom compost
- Water treatment cake
- Food industry Waste
- Other Historic Organic Manures
- Seaweed
- Sewage
- Green Manures
- Guano
- Crop residues
- Industrial processes – basic slag, shoddy
Example analysis of different livestock manure
- Chicken = 30:5:7 kg/t N:P:K
- Cattle = 6:2:9 kg/t N:P:K
- Pigs = 7:4:7 kg/t N:P:K
- Sheep = 7:2:7 kg/t N:P:K
Advantages:
- Environmentally friendly.
- Improves soil health over time.
Limitations:
- Slower nutrient release compared to synthetic fertilisers.
- Nutrient content can vary.
2. Inorganic (Synthetic) Fertilisers
These are chemically manufactured to deliver specific nutrients in precise quantities. They’re widely used in commercial farming for their reliability and efficiency.
Types:
- Nitrogen fertilisers: Boost vegetative growth (e.g., urea, ammonium nitrate).
- Phosphorus fertilisers: Support root and flower development (e.g., single superphosphate, diammonium phosphate).
- Potassium fertilisers: Enhance overall plant health and resistance to disease (e.g., muriate of potash).
Advantages:
- Fast-acting.
- High nutrient concentration.
Limitations:
- Overuse can lead to soil degradation and water pollution.
- Expensive compared to organic options.
3. Slow-Release and Controlled-Release Fertilisers
These fertilisers release nutrients gradually over time, reducing the risk of nutrient loss through leaching.
Examples:
- Coated granules (e.g., sulphur-coated urea).
- Fertilisers embedded in biodegradable polymers.
Advantages:
- Minimises nutrient wastage.
- Reduces the frequency of application.
Limitations:
- Higher upfront cost.
4. Biofertilisers
Biofertilisers are living organisms that enhance nutrient availability. They’re an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fertilisers.
Examples:
- Nitrogen-fixing bacteria: Rhizobium for legumes.
- Phosphate-solubilising bacteria: Help plants absorb phosphorus more efficiently.
- Mycorrhizal fungi: Improve nutrient and water uptake.
Advantages:
- Sustainable and renewable.
- Enhances soil microbial activity.
Limitations:
- Effectiveness depends on environmental conditions.
- Requires careful application.
Choosing the Right Fertiliser
When selecting a fertiliser, consider the following:
- Soil testing: Understand the nutrient deficiencies in your soil.
- Crop type: Different crops have specific nutrient requirements.
- Application method: Some fertilisers are more effective when applied at certain stages of growth.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the types of fertilisers is key to effective crop management. By balancing nutrient supply with environmental sustainability, you can ensure healthy yields and long-term soil productivity.
Below is presentation about “Types of Fertilisers”
