mineral fertilizers. Organic or mineral fertilizers: pros and cons, application rules

Large agricultural firms and summer residents dream of getting a rich harvest on their plots. For the former, there is no question whether chemical fertilizers, and amateur gardeners often prefer to do without them. Is it correct? Is it necessary to carry out mineral supplements? Is there any harm to fertilizers (fertilizers)? It's good to know the answers to these questions.

What are mineral fertilizers

Summer residents, fearing chemistry, prefer to feed plants with organic fertilizers, without thinking about what is in them. not a large number of useful ingredients. Vegetables, berries, shrubs for proper growth and yield must receive many different elements. Often nutrition is not enough due to the characteristics of the soil:

  • clay - iron, manganese;
  • peat bogs - copper;
  • sour, swampy - zinc;
  • sandstones have a lack of magnesium, potassium, nitrogen.

Plants signal their problems by changing the color of the leaves, the size and shape of the fruit. The task of a person is to make timely feeding. Mineral fertilizers are chemical compounds of inorganic origin. They have one main component or several. Useful substances, being in the form of mineral salts, help:

  • increase in yield;
  • plant strengthening;
  • pest protection;
  • stimulation of growth and nutrition;
  • improving the quality of fruits;
  • soil restoration;
  • weed protection;
  • strengthening plant immunity.

Types of mineral fertilizers

Fertilizer mixture is used for intensive farming in reputable firms, summer cottages. What is mineral fertilizers? It is important to know the characteristics different categories. There are different types of fertilizers and their classification:

  • Simple or one-sided, containing a single substance. These include phosphorus, potassium, nitrogen fertilizers.
  • Complex mineral - include several active substances that simultaneously affect the soil and plants.
  • Microfertilizers with a complex composition of trace elements - molybdenum, calcium, iodine, manganese.

Nitrogen

The use of mineral fertilizers with a high nitrogen content helps the development of the stem and leaves of the plant, which is necessary in the spring. Good solubility allows for their liquid, solid use. Nitrogen mineral fertilizers are classified:

  • Nitrate - calcium, sodium nitrate, suitable for acidic soil, recommended for plants with a short ripening period - radish, lettuce. In excess, it is harmful - it accumulates in fruits.
  • Ammonium - ammonium sulfate - requires autumn application. Onions, tomatoes, cucumbers respond well to it.

Find application in major manufacturers and private traders such types of fertilizers:

  • Amide - urea - has the highest concentration of nitrogen, promotes big harvest. It requires application to the ground, it is useful for tomatoes when setting, growing.
  • Ammonium nitrate - ammonium nitrate - when combined with potassium, phosphorus, the yield of grain crops, beets, and potatoes increases.

Potash

To increase disease resistance, improve taste, and increase the keeping quality of fruits, potassium cannot be dispensed with. Popular types of potash fertilizers:

  • Potassium chloride is a natural raw material extracted from ore. Contains chlorine, which is harmful to some plants. To avoid bad influence, fertilization should be carried out in the fall. It works well on beets, barley, potatoes, buckwheat.

Together with trace elements, phosphorus and nitrogen, potassium increases plant productivity. Distribution received fertilizers:

  • Potassium salt - has a high concentration of potassium, is applied in the fall. Promotes the growth of potatoes, grain crops.
  • Potassium nitrate - contains nitrogen, is useful in setting and ripening fruits.
  • Potassium sulphate is used for fertilizing all crops, applied to the soil when growing root crops.

Phosphoric

Phosphorus is needed to nourish berry bushes and trees. Its use accelerates fruit set, increases resistance to frost in winter. Effective top dressing with phosphorus fertilizers:

  • Simple superphosphate - fall asleep in the ground, apply during the flowering period. Ideal fertilizer for flowers.
  • Phosphorite flour - requires acidic soil for action. Suitable for cereals and vegetables. It can provide the plant with phosphorus for many years.
  • Double superphosphate is used for berry bushes, applied in autumn under flowers for better wintering.

Microfertilizers

In classification mineral fertilizers for plant nutrition there is a group with microelements. Molybdenum, copper or manganese are often absent in the soil. You can make up for the deficiency of iron or zinc by treating the seed material with mineral microfertilizers, while observing the norm. With their use, actively develops root system, increases protection against diseases, accelerates growth.

Types of microfertilizers are classified according to the active substance:

  • complex - contain several elements - increase productivity, fight pests - "Master", "Sizam", "Oracle";
  • copper - for wetlands - copper sulfate, pyrites;
  • boric - tend to activate the growth of young plants - borax, boric acid;
  • molybdenum - for forest soils - ammonium molybdic acid.

Complex mineral fertilizers

This group of mineral fats includes multilateral preparations that contain several active ingredients. Complex mineral fertilizer solves various problems - increases yield, counteracts weeds, pests, improves the quality of flowers. This group includes:

  • Ammophos is a nitrogen-phosphorus fertilizer. Suitable for vegetables berry crops, especially good for flowers - they begin to grow violently, lush bloom.
  • Diammofoska - contains the main substances - potassium, nitrogen, phosphorus and trace elements. Fertilizer helps control pests, is used for all plants.

Large agricultural firms apply to the soil complex fertilizers using a fertilizer seeder, as in the photo. Summer residents scatter them in spring or autumn, depending on the type of soil. Popular mineral complexes:

  • Nitroammophoska. Suitable for any plants and soils - they are applied to clay soils in the fall, to sandy soils - in the spring, before plowing.
  • Nitrophoska. Excellent for tomatoes, improving their taste, increasing their size. Apply in spring and during the growing season. Cucumbers are not affected by diseases.

Application of mineral fertilizers

Experienced gardener by the appearance of the plant, it will determine what substances it lacks. What mineral fertilizers are needed and their use on the site:

  • with a nitrogen deficiency, growth is slowed down, the lower leaves die off, dry up;
  • lack of phosphorus is manifested by their reddish, grayish color;
  • lack of potassium reduces the germination of seeds, increases susceptibility to diseases, the lower leaves at the edges begin to turn yellow, turn brown, die off;
  • in the absence of zinc, a small rosette forms in apple trees;
  • Magnesium deficiency is marked by pale green.

Nutrient fats are used by introducing into the soil when digging, by watering dissolved preparations. When using mineral compounds, fertilizer groups must not be mixed:

  • urea with lime, simple superphosphate, manure, ammonium nitrate;
  • ammonium sulfate with dolomite, chalk;
  • simple superphosphate with lime, ammonium nitrate, urea;
  • potassium salt with dolomite, chalk.

Before you start feeding plants and soil, you need to understand the rules for using fertilizers. There are ways to apply mineral fertilizers, depending on the composition:

  • Nitrogen is embedded in the soil in the spring, when digging, it has the ability to evaporate. When used in autumn, useful substances will be washed out with rains.
  • Ammonium nitrate is scattered over the snow, which the granules melt, making their way to the soil.

Other active mineral components have their own characteristics when making:

  • Potassium is buried in the ground in spring and autumn. Potassium chloride is preferable to apply at the end of summer, so that the chlorine disappears.
  • Phosphorus can be applied at any time. It should be borne in mind that it is poorly soluble in water, it can reach the roots after 2 months. It is preferable to fertilize in late summer to strengthen the plants for the winter season.

Dose calculation

Specialists of large agricultural firms calculate the doses of fertilizers depending on the type of soil separately for each crop. At the same time, the standard for the use of mineral fertilizers per hectare of land is taken into account. It is important to know the content of the active substance in the composition. Summer residents can use the application rates of mineral fertilizers in grams per square meter:

  • ammonium nitrate - 15-25;
  • superphosphate - 40-60;
  • potassium chloride - 15-20;
  • nitroammophoska - 70-80.

Choice of fertilizers

Winter is the time to prepare for the new season. Any specialized store can offer a variety of plant preparations. In order to choose the right mineral fertilizers, it is necessary to take into account the tasks to be solved with their help, to provide for a number of factors:

  • desired impact;
  • seasonality of application;
  • release form and volume;
  • manufacturer's firm.

Impact

According to their influence, fertilizers are divided as follows:

  • Soil restoration. "Kemira Lux" - promotes growth in climate change. Plus - excellent quality, minus - strong deoxidation of the soil.
  • Pest protection. "GUMATEM" - increases the yield due to their absence. Plus - the neutralization of the action of pesticides. The disadvantage is the need for strict adherence to the dose.

According to the effect, the following fertilizers are distinguished:

  • Growth stimulation. "Emiks" - increases productivity, immunity. Plus - high concentration, you need a small amount. The disadvantage is that it takes time to cook.
  • Weed protection. Etisso - gives an excellent effect for lawn grass. Plus - affects plants through leaves and roots. Minus - valid for the next year.
  • Immunity boost. Nitroammophoska - suitable for all cultures. Plus - easy dissolution in water. The disadvantage is a short shelf life.

seasonality

When choosing mineral fertilizers, you need to pay attention to seasonality:

  • Spring is the time for nitrogen fertilizers. Urea - promotes the growth of stems, leaves. Plus - well absorbed by plants. Minus - in case of an overdose, small fruits, a set of green mass.
  • Summer requires phosphate fertilizers. Superphosphate - contributes to the formation of fruits. Plus - meets the need for a particular substance. Minus - the lack of trace elements.

Focusing on seasonality, you need to consider:

  • In winter, plants do not feed, they are used to prepare them for the cold season. autumn fertilizers. Potassium sulphate - has a strengthening effect, helps to endure frosts. Plus - well absorbed, disadvantage - not suitable for all soils.
  • All-weather fertilizers. Fertika is a complex preparation. Plus - contains many useful active ingredients. Minus - additional trace elements are needed.

Release form

In appearance, mineral fertilizers are divided into 3 groups:

  • Granules. Superphosphate - applied to the soil during digging, used in dissolved form. Plus - ease of use. Minus - it takes a long time to dissolve.
  • Liquid. Carbide-ammonia mixture - used for irrigation. Plus - high concentration, minus - it is necessary to comply with the norms when feeding.
  • Powder. Magnesium lime - is introduced into the soil when digging. Plus, it absorbs quickly. The disadvantage is that it is poorly stored, caked.

All fertilizer from application are divided into organic and mineral. organic fertilizers - universal, they contain all the elements necessary for plant nutrition. For example, organic fertilizer - manure contains about 0.5% nitrogen, 0.6% potassium, 0.25% phosphorus, etc. contain many times more nutrients than organic. For example, nitrogen fertilizers contain from 15% nitrogen (sodium nitrate -NaNO 3) to 82% (liquid ammonia). Phosphate fertilizers contain phosphorus from 18% (phosphate rock) to 40%. potash fertilizers contain potassium from 16% to 62% (potassium chloride - KCl). AT complex fertilizers contains nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. It is known that one kilogram of potassium applied to the soil on which potatoes are planted increases the yield by 50 kg. increase the yield of cereals, vegetables and fruit crops.

Exist mineral fertilizers, containing 1,2 and 3 nutrients and are respectively called simple, double and complex. In addition, some complex fertilizers also contain trace elements - copper, boron, zinc, manganese. It is necessary to store fertilizers in dry cool rooms, the shelf life is not limited, but it is recommended - no more than 2 years.

Apply to the soil in early spring or autumn during soil preparation. During the growth of plants, fertilizers are applied additionally (evenly scattered in a dry form or watered).

The benefits of the elements contained in fertilizers

Thus, a lack of nitrogen in the soil leads to the fact that the leaves lose their color, first become pale green, and then turn yellow, the growth of new runs stops, the fruits remain underdeveloped.

With a lack of potassium in the soil, the germination of seeds decreases, the susceptibility of plants to diseases increases, the lower leaves first turn yellow from the edges, then turn brown and die. Phosphorus is necessary for plants to accelerate the development of the root system and fruits. The lack of phosphorus in the soil affects the leaves - they become grayish or reddish in color, the lower leaves turn yellow and die.

Calcium contributes to the development of the root system. Sulfur plays a role in the processes associated with plant respiration, magnesium and iron, consumed by plants in much smaller quantities, are also necessary for their normal development. Magnesium and iron maintain normal leaf color.

In addition to the indicated elements, plants need boron, copper, manganese, and zinc. Tomatoes grown in boron-free soils stop growing, and cabbage and lettuce develop burn-like spots. Cherries, apricots, apple trees and pears are also sensitive to the absence of boron - they stop flowering and fruit formation.

To replenish boron in the soil, it is fertilized with boric acid (H 3 BO 3), - contains about 17% boron, or brown - Na 3 BO 3 - about 11% boron. For 10m 2 take 6 g boric acid or 9 g of borax (you can mix them with other fertilizers). For each fertilizer - its own dose and rule of use.

With a lack of copper, white spots appear on the leaves of plants, the leaves curl and dry out, and plant growth stops. In addition, copper helps to increase the resistance of plants to fungal diseases and increase fruiting. To replenish copper reserves in the soil, copper sulfate (CuSO 4 x5H 2 O) is added to it, while taking 10-20 g blue vitriol per 10 m 2.

Manganese plays an important role in plant respiration and photosynthesis. Manganese increases the yield of agricultural plants.

The basis of which is manganese, in gardens and vegetable gardens they make it as follows: fruit trees are sprayed before and after flowering with a solution containing 30 g of potassium permanganate (potassium permanganate) per 1 liter of water. This can be combined with "Carbamide". With the main application under vegetable crops in the fall, they take 60-100 g of potassium permanganate per 10 m 2 of area.

Zinc has a beneficial effect on the formation of organic acids from carbohydrates in plants and prevents a number of plant diseases, especially citrus fruits.
Of course, it is most convenient to use complex mineral fertilizers containing a complete set of trace elements (boron, manganese, molybdenum, zinc, copper), as well as 11% nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium. Such fertilizers are suitable for all types of soils and are used for the main application.

Phosphate fertilizers

Phosphate fertilizers- the most common of them are superphosphate, precipitate and phosphate rock.

Simple superphosphate- a mixture of calcium dihydrogen phosphate Ca(H 2 PO 4) 2 , calcium hydrogen phosphate CaHPO 4 and calcium phosphate Ca 3 (PO 4) 2 , as well as apatite, gypsum, and other impurities. Simple superphosphate obtained by treating phosphorites and apatites with sulfuric acid. When mineral phosphorites are treated with phosphoric acid, double superphosphate containing up to 50% phosphorus oxide P 2 O 5 . When phosphoric acid is quenched with lime, precipitate CaHPO 4x2H2O

Phosphate fertilizers

  • Ca 3 (PO 4) 2 - phosphate rock, bone meal
  • Ca (H 2 PO 4) 2 + 2CaSO 4 - simple superphosphate
  • Ca (H 2 PO 4) 2 - double superphosphate
  • CaHPO 4 x2H 2 O - precipitate
  • NH 4 H 2 PO 4 + (NH 4) 2 HPO 4 - mofos - compound fertilizer

nitrogen fertilizers:

  • NH 3 - ammonia (contains the largest mass fraction nitrogen)
  • NH 3 xH 2 O - ammonia water
  • CO (NH 2) 2 - urea (or urea)
  • NH 4 NO 3 - ammonium nitrate
  • KNO 3 - potassium nitrate (Indian)
  • NaNO 3 - sodium nitrate (Chilean)
  • Ca (NO 3) 2 - calcium nitrate (Norwegian)

potash fertilizers:

  • NaCl x KCl - sylvinite
  • KCl - sylvin (potassium salt)
  • K 2 SO 4 - potassium sulfate
  • K 2 CO 3 - potash, wood ash, peat ash

Mineral fertilizers (tuki) are substances that have an inorganic nature of origin. They are traditionally used in agriculture, as are more affordable than, give a quick positive effect, and have a wide spectrum of action. They are also much easier and cheaper to transport.

These "fast" top dressings consist of substances that do not have a carbon skeleton. The main composition of mineral fertilizers includes metals and their various connections(salts, oxides, acids). By type, mineral fertilizers are simple and complex:

nitrogen fertilizers

One of the main advantages is excellent diffuse properties.

Therefore, all of them are highly soluble in water, and are used both in the solid state and in the liquid state. Usually this group of fats is brought into the ground very early, a month before spring plowing, so that they have time to release a significant part of the nutrients before active growth plants. But, despite this general rule, individual conditions apply to each subgroup, depending on the composition and concentration.

Ammonia fertilizers

Ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) contains about 34.5% nitrogen. In addition to this element, the composition includes auxiliary substances: phosphate rock, chalk, ground limestone, phosphorus gypsum.

It is not recommended to use this fertilizer on podzolic soils, since its solution contains few cations for nitrogen nitrification, which neutralizes the beneficial properties of saltpeter.

- the best mineral fertilizer for. It is cheap, fast and effective. The yield on lands treated with this nitrogen fertilizer increases by 40-60% in the first year after application. Potatoes are less affected various diseases(late blight, for example), and pests.

Pre-sowing application rate of ammonium nitrate is 10-20 g/m², and for foliar application it is used as a liquid mineral fertilizer and is diluted in the proportion of 50 g per 100 l of water. The resulting solution should be sprayed over an area of ​​about 100 m².

One of the most unique abilities of ammonium nitrate is to act when the soil has not yet warmed up. It can be sprinkled directly on the snow - the granules of this fertilizer will melt the snow and make their way to the ground.

Therefore, they fertilize her grapes and fruit bushes already at the end of March - beginning of April, so that the awakened plants that have entered the period of active vegetation do not experience nitrogen starvation. In this case, nitrogen nitrate is preferable to organic fertilizers, which only work on warm soil.

When working with ammonium nitrate, one should not forget about its explosiveness. That is why it is practically not sold to private individuals. to avoid accidents. It should be protected from overheating and protected from foreign impurities.

Nitrate fertilizers

Sodium nitrate (NaNO₃) - granular substance white color. It is intended for use on acidic, non-saline soils, and for many others, the main condition is that it cannot be used for chernozem. Application rates - about 30-35 g / m?.

Nitrogen in the composition of sodium nitrate is relatively small - about 15-17%. Therefore, for its sufficient release, the following technology for applying mineral fertilizers is used. It is scattered over the fallow before spring plowing, so that it has time to allocate enough nitrogen for the growth of young plants, and, at the same time, does not lose its useful properties due to contact with air.

In greenhouses, the use of this fertilizer is strictly prohibited. Length long-term storage this substance loses most of its useful properties.

Sodium nitrate should be applied to beds with light soil in the spring using the row method. On heavier loams, it is better to do this ahead of time, in the fall.

Nowadays, only one brand of NaNO₃ is allowed for use in agriculture, this is “Sodium Saltpeter Technical Grade СХ”.

Amide

Urea

More correct name of this substance is nitrogen urea (NH2CONH2). This is a highly concentrated nitrogen-containing (45%) mineral fertilizer.. In the soil, it quickly transforms into ammonium carbonate. If scattered over the surface of the earth, then most of nitrogen will evaporate in the form of gaseous ammonia. Therefore, it is strictly necessary to dig into the soil to the depth of root germination.

Urea can be used both outdoors and indoors for most crops. Very often it is used as a liquid mineral fertilizer, since the nitrogen in this chemical compound, when dissolved in water, is better fixed in the soil.

Application rates for urea
  • Vegetables - 5-12 g / m² with direct application; 50-60g per bucket of water with a volume of 10 liters. water, and 3 l. per 100 m² with foliar top dressing.
  • Fruit and berry trees and shrubs - 10-20g/m² direct application; 20-30 g per 10 liters. water - 2-fold top dressing, carried out 5 days after flowering, and the second time - after 4 weeks.
  • For, potatoes, peppers - 20g / m² (root).
  • For and peas - 10 g / m² (root).

Urea cannot be combined with lime, dolomite, chalk and simple superphosphate.

This fertilizer is used to prevent and treat nitrogen starvation in plants. It is especially useful for tomatoes, as a top dressing during the period of fruit setting and growth. When using urea, they improve taste qualities fetus.

calcium cyanamide

This substance is obtained as a result of the sintering reaction of calcium carbide in a nitrogen atmosphere, and is written as: CaCN2. Cyanamide contains much less nitrogen than urea (19% versus 46%).

It can be applied to the soil at the end of March, since the decomposition of calcium cyanamide by water, with the release of nitrogen, is slow. It is very effective for use on podzolic soils, as it contains lime as a by-product.

It is produced in the form of a very light powder, with low humidity. For improvement custom properties, petroleum oils are added to it, due to which CaCN2 has a characteristic smell of kerosene.

Use this mineral fertilizer with great care.. The fact is that calcium cyanamide is a waste product of the metallurgical industry. Therefore, its prices are low. When working with it, you should use protective equipment. At high concentrations, CaCN2 is used as a herbicide.

potash fertilizers

Potassium chloride KCl

The content of the main element in the composition of this representative reaches 50%. Apply it in the fall, for digging, introducing into the soil at the rate of 20-25 gr. per m², as chlorine is washed off into deeper soil layers and its impact on plants is minimized.

Potassium chloride is especially good for potatoes, beets, barley, and most cereals.

KCl is a mineral fertilizer with a high concentration of nutrients per gram, acidic, soluble in water.

The average rate of its application for all vegetable crops and cereals is about 2 centners per hectare. If it is planned to plant crops containing sugar on the prepared soil, then the dose can be increased by 25-50%.

Potassium sulfate K2SO4

Another name for this element is potassium sulfate. The high content of this element makes it the best mineral fertilizer for plants that are severely deficient in K.

It does not contain impurities such as chlorine, sodium and magnesium.

Potassium sulfate is an ideal fertilizer for cucumbers, especially during the period of ovary and fruit formation, since it contains about 46% of potassium, which is so loved by these melons.

The application rate for spring digging is about 25-30 g/m², for top dressing under the root - 10 g/m².

Potassium salt (KCl + NaCl)

The main two components of this mineral fertilizer are chlorides. The substance looks like dark red crystals.

In modern agro-industrial complexes, sylvinite is most often used - one of the most successful forms of potassium salt.

In the spring, this fertilizer is applied for all types of berry crops, at the rate of 20 gr. under one bush. In autumn, it is spread over the surface of the soil before plowing. The norms for continuous application of potassium salt are 150-200 g / m².

Phosphate fertilizers

Simple superphosphate

This mineral supplement contains about 20% phosphoric anhydride. - the best mineral fertilizer for all types of soils that need this element. It is not combustible, so storage conditions are undemanding.

Its application depends on the degree of soil moisture. With a high content of liquid fractions, this fertilizer can be applied as a top dressing during the growth and development of plants.

For the capricious queen of the garden, roses, superphosphate has become ideal source nutrition. Applying it to flowers, the result can be noticed very quickly. The stems become more powerful, the peduncles are dense, the color is much brighter.

Application rates - about 0.5 centners per 1 ha. Recommended for the continuous method.

Double superphosphate

In this phosphate compound, the concentration of useful substances is higher than in its predecessor. It also differs in that it does not contain demons. useful elements as a ballast, for example, CaSO4. Therefore, it is more economical than its counterpart.

Manufacturers produce this substance based on GOST 16306-80. From a change in the place of extraction of the original product, the amount of active substance phosphorus changes, ranging from 32 to 47%.

Double superphosphate is ideal for flowers, just like plain. For example, it must be applied under roses in the fall so that their roots prepare for wintering and safely endure frosts.

Phosphorite flour

The main characteristics of this mineral dressing are described in GOST 571-74. Production standards have not changed for 40 years. This is an invariable white powder, which was used to fertilize the fields under Brezhnev.

Phosphate powder is used for acidic soils, for all fruit and vegetable crops, as well as cereals. It helps plants fight off pests and diseases by increasing the plant's own immunity. Increases winter hardiness of most crops.

The application rate of phosphorite flour is about 3-3.5 centners per hectare.

Complex mineral fertilizers

Nitroammophoska (nitrophosphate)

A fertilizer that phosphorus and nitrogen are contained in a ratio of 50/50. Use it for different types applications, for fertilizing garden and horticultural crops as well as in agro-industrial production. This substance is obtained by the reaction of neutralization with ammonia with a mixture of nitric and phosphoric acids. The formula for nitrophosphate looks like this: NH4H2PO4 + NH4NO3.

Manufacturers produce the following classifications of this mineral fertilizer:

  • Nitrophosphate brand NP 32-6; NP32:5; NP33:3.

Nitroammophos with excellent results is used on soddy-podzolic, chestnut, chernozem and gray earth soils.

This is the best mineral fertilizer for clays. It is optimal to apply it to clay soils with slow diffusion in autumn, and to sandy soils before spring plowing.

Nitrophoska

This is three-element complex (N+P+K), which fertilize the soil, using it as the main plant nutrition. Agronomists recommend it for almost all garden crops.

It consists of various salts- ammophos, superphosphate, potassium nitrate, potassium chloride, precipitate, gypsum, ammonium chloride and various impurities. Available in the form of small balls, soluble in water.

This is a complete mineral fertilizer, which is used during spring sowing, as well as throughout the growing season.

Nitrofoska is actively used not only by large agro-industrial complexes, but also by ordinary summer residents on their plots. Fertilizer is very good for tomatoes(they become larger and sweeter), and for cucumbers, which after its use are not affected by various diseases.

Nitrophoska is very effective both for continuous and local application. For feeding potatoes, a chlorine-free form is used. Specifically for this vegetable, it is much more useful than nitroammophos. The tubers are larger, and do not suffer from scab and other common diseases.

Ammophos

Potassium, magnesium and phosphorus are the main elements of this complete mineral fertilizer.

Its formula looks like this: (NH4)2SO4 + (NH4)2HPO4 + K2SO4. Ammaphos is used, unlike other representatives of this group, not only in unprotected soil, but also in greenhouses and greenhouses.

Another difference from other complex mineral fertilizers is that ammophos contains a rather rare, but very useful substance - sulfur, and in significant quantities. The main advantage of this top dressing is that it does not contain chlorine and sodium.

This fertilizer is produced in the form of small light granules. It has a high friability, which facilitates the process of use. Differs in high uniformity of distribution of elements on granules.

Ammaphoska is used as a universal top dressing. It is especially good for flowers. Roses, after adding it to the ground, begin to bloom more abundantly and luxuriantly, and peonies and phloxes reduce the growth of the vegetative mass and increase the number of flowering ovaries.

Diammophos

This is a complex mineral fertilizer, which includes the main nutrients of the entire plant flora. Nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus, like three whales, form the basis of this mix. Diammophos has universal use, it is applied to all types of cultures and under any soils.

Diammonium phosphate is available in the form of small beads color pink. It is treated with anti-dust reagents, which increases its friability and hygroscopicity. It has a neutral pH factor, this helps the fertilizer not affect the acidity of the soil.

The remains of diammophoska are not washed out of the soil, and are subsequently used by subsequent generations of plants, which ensures a long period of aftereffect of this top dressing. It can be used not only for pre-sowing and sowing application, but also for foliar and root dressings.

Processing with this mineral fertilizer is ideal for tomatoes during flowering. It helps the plant fight all types of pests by improving the quality of the digestibility of nutrients.

How to calculate the dose of fertilizer application?

The technology of applying mineral fertilizers depends on the concentration of the active substance in the entire volume used. Very often it is necessary to recalculate the dose again, for the type of mineral fertilizers that will be used.

The number is calculated based on the recommendations for the introduction of minerals for this particular plant. With an increase in concentration, a ratio is determined that describes the proportion of useful elements to the useful mass of the fertilizer, and using these data, the substances are distributed in the soil.

Table: compatibility of some of the fertilizers

Video: an example of the layout and fertilization of mineral fertilizers

Should I be afraid of mineral fertilizers?

Despite all the advantages, these fertilizers are less actively used on personal household plots. Among gardeners and gardeners there is an opinion that they cause harm to human health.

In fact, only those fruit and vegetable products, during the cultivation of which the technology of applying mineral fertilizers, was seriously violated, can harm the consumer.

But mineral fertilizers have many advantages. For example:

  • They work in cold soil and at sub-zero temperatures.
  • Tuki have a very fast, sometimes instantaneous effect on plants.
  • They are easy to transport.
  • They are cheaper and more convenient to use than organic supplements.

It is worth using ready-made liquid mineral fertilizers in small doses that will not harm human health, but will help to get a big harvest.

And the most important thing, it is necessary to stop any top dressing 15-20 days before the removal of fruits, berries, and digging of tubers. Then their environmental friendliness is guaranteed.

Using mineral fertilizers, you can achieve high yields any cultures. Roses bloom brighter with them, and apples become sweeter. Applying these dressings to all types of plants, you can always be sure of getting a stable positive result.

Video: purchase and use of mineral fertilizers on 6 acres

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Organic matter is the basis of agriculture. The reason for the popularity is the maximum safety for the soil, plants and humans. Another positive factor is availability, most types of organic fertilizers can be obtained within one plot or bought at a low price from neighbors. Mineral, chemical fertilizers require a careful approach, they can harm the environment and human health, and organic varieties are free from this drawback.

Organic fertilizers - what is it?

First you need to find out what it is, only after that you can pick up a good fertilizer for the site. Organic fertilizers are top dressings that contain plant nutrients in the form of organic-type compounds.

The most common representatives of organics are:

  • manure of various animals;
  • peat;
  • compost heaps;
  • green mass of plants;
  • straw;
  • factory fertilizers with a complex composition;
  • household waste.

What organic fertilizers are the best option for our gardens and orchards - no doubt

If everything is clear with the definition, then it is worth considering what such a fertilizer can bring to the soil:

  • a lot of phosphorus;
  • nitrogen;
  • calcium;
  • magnesium;
  • molybdenum, etc.

Apart from mineral composition, organic matter is present in the fertilizer, its type depends on the raw materials used and the origin of the material.

Organic fertilizers include plant and animal materials. During decomposition, minerals are released, and upper layer The soil is fed with carbon dioxide, which is necessary for a high-quality photosynthesis reaction. The influence of organic fertilizers for the garden extends to water supply, enrichment of the soil with oxygen and improvement of microflora for the normal development of beneficial bacteria. Various microorganisms are important for the life of the rhizome, they are especially effective in influencing vegetables and providing them nutrients.

A small digression. In crossword puzzles, the question is often found: organic fertilizer for 7 letters, there are several answers: green manure, compost, mineral.

Biological fertilizers can be even more effective if they are prepared as fine granules; special units have been developed for this.

When organic fertilizers are applied to the soil, its structure improves significantly

Types of organic fertilizers

Today there are various kinds organic fertilizers, each type has its own properties that can be used to improve soil fertility.

Types of organics and their characteristics:

  • manure is the most common fertilizer, which is based on many useful substances. It should be applied at an average concentration of about 5 kg per 1 m2. Methods of application: in the fall before plowing (more often), in the spring before digging (less often), in the holes during planting (extremely rare). Manure reduces the acidity of the soil, creating a neutral pH, increases friability, stimulates the high-quality transportation of useful components, improves the ingress of air and water, and saturates the soil. Approximate composition potassium 60%, phosphorus 40% and nitrogen 25%;
  • humus is a top dressing based on rotted manure, foliage and other organic matter. The benefit of humus is a large amount of nitrogen. The friability and lightness of the soil improves its fertile qualities and helps to better transport minerals to the rhizome, although the humus contains a low amount of these substances. Ash, silt, clay or sand is used to increase the level of minerals. Can be used on all crops, but tomatoes, carrots and onions respond best;
  • peat is divided into 2 types: lowland and highland. In horse riding high level acidity, low mineral content, especially severe potassium deficiency. Most often, peat is part of the compost, but before cooking it is dried and ventilated. Lowland varieties are excellent for fertilization, they have low acidity and an abundance of nitrogen with ash. Most often used as mulch or as part of compost;

Each of the organic fertilizers is enriched with a completely different composition.

  • Poultry droppings are distinguished by a high concentration of nutrients in an easily digestible form. It can be used for all plants, but must be diluted beforehand, because there is a risk of burns. AT fresh contains: calcium 24%, nitrogen 16%, phosphorus 15%, potassium 8.5%, manganese 7.4%, nitrogen 4.5%. For preparation, it must be mixed with water in the appropriate proportion (it differs depending on the purpose and method of use);
  • plant compost is a commonly available method of fertilization. At each site, a lot of plant waste accumulates during the season, which are piled up for rotting. The basis is: tops, plants, fallen leaves, food waste and ash. Initially, a straw base is prepared, on which raw materials are laid in layers, and between it is soil or peat, all layers are moistened. You can improve the quality with the addition of superphosphate or manure slurry.

Types of fertilizers and their basic characteristic allow you to choose the most cost-effective solution for each farm.

Rules for the use of organic fertilizers

The introduction of organic fertilizers into the soil can be carried out in various ways, there are 4 main methods:

  • presowing. Can be used both in autumn and spring. Sometimes application is required at the beginning of winter. The method is quite simple, you need to scatter organic matter around the site, and after the procedure, plowing or digging is carried out. Convenient and universal way- this is to equip warm beds with manure in the spring to get a speedy harvest, and to scatter humus by spring;

Organic fertilizers have a positive effect on the physical and chemical properties of the fertile layer of the earth

  • post-sowing. This method includes all fertilizers that are added after the third leaf is thrown out. The feeding method is further divided into:
    • root. It implies soil treatment in the root circle of the plant. It is required to pre-prepare the liquid mixture;
    • foliar. This includes soaking the seeds before planting and processing the green mass with a sprayer.
  • fergitation. Fertilizer is applied to the water used for irrigation;
  • hydroponics. The soil is not used for growing plants at all, and growth is carried out due to "landing" in the liquid. The complexity of the technique and the high risks of crop loss do not allow it to be used often. An additional disadvantage is the deterioration of the taste of the crop.

The introduction of organic fertilizers into the soil allows you to get top scores only with the correct determination of the needs of the soil and the appropriate selection of fertilizer.

There are 2 main soil parameters that should be considered when planting and top dressing:

  • composition - can only be accurately determined in the laboratory, but you can approximately understand the condition of the soil using old methods:
    • a hole is made with a shovel. It is important to pay attention to the digging process, if it goes easily, then there is a lot of sand in the soil;
    • a handful of soil is taken into the hand, it is necessary to squeeze it quite strongly. When saving the form, it can be concluded that clay soil, and if the water oozes through the fingers - sandy.
  • acidity. The best indicator is at the level of 6.5-7, you need to adjust the acidity to get such a mark. You can determine using a special indicator strip or simply by the color of the soil.

Despite the positive useful features organic fertilizers, non-compliance with the rules and regulations for their application can lead to damage to the soil and plants

Organics for sandy soils

Organic and mineral fertilizers will help to make a fertile site from any soil. To improve the properties of sandy soil, it is worth adding a riding type of peat. Its main task is the ability to accumulate water, which is then taken up by the roots of plants.

An alternative and free option is compost, which will require vegetation, which is usually abundant on the site. After using compost, the soil becomes more structured and viscous, which helps to accumulate useful elements.

The key task when working with sandy soils is to improve their structure. The ideal situation is to retain moisture for as long as possible. Other important feature such soil is a lack of nutrients, it is worth adding manure, compost and fertilizers to the soil to improve the composition.

Why fertilize black soil?

The land is already fertile and arable, but still needs fertilizer. The reason for the need to carry out top dressing is the gradual depletion of the beneficial components of the soil. Considering that large areas are often planted, attention should be paid to liquid organic fertilizers, which are easy to apply and can be prepared in various quantities.

For the fastest processing, liquid manure spreaders are often used. This method is called intrasoil, since the liquid is not introduced into the upper layer, but ~ 20 cm deeper. Machines for applying liquid organic fertilizers allow you to feed the soil with useful microelements, this increases the quality and quantity of the future crop.

For each type of plant, fertilizing with organic fertilizers has its own individual characteristics.

There are other manure spreaders that work with substances in solid form, such as manure, manure or compost. When the car moves, the fertilizer is spread over the entire area and subsequent plowing.

An important condition for ensuring fertility is the rest of the field, which must be arranged once every 5 years.

What organic fertilizers are suitable for alumina?

For clay soil types, manure is best suited, it should be scattered before autumn digging. You can simply work the soil before winter and leave until spring, but the disadvantage of the method is the loss of 50% of all nitrogen. During spring plowing, fresh manure is rarely used, there is a risk of damage to the vegetation.

Clay type of soil is great for growing tomatoes, they grow without much difficulty and give a good harvest.

To ensure their productivity, two rules must be followed:

  • a crust quickly appears on top of the soil, which cracks over time. Moisture evaporates from the resulting holes, and the roots may lack it. The task of the gardener is to prevent the appearance of a crust;
  • moderate watering, you should not overdo it, as plants can rot with excess moisture.

Manure is a fertilizer made from the excrement of agricultural animals, which contains hay or straw.

How to prepare and apply organic fertilizers with your own hands?

chicken manure

More often, manure is used in the form of liquid organic fertilizer. For the preparation of top dressing, 3 main methods have been developed.

Production of organic :

  • fermentation. Previously, only large owners of poultry farms used the method, but now the method is available to everyone, since substances are commercially available to speed up the fermentation process. The idea is quite simple: a tray is installed under the cage, on which excrement will accumulate. In the faeces, it is sometimes necessary to add sawdust, only they are moistened in the preparation. At the cleaning stage, everything is mixed up and put into one pile. When reaching 1–1.5 m in height, add a UV or EM accelerator;
  • infusion. Differs in high concentration of nitrogen and simplicity of production. For cooking, you need to take rotted manure and pour water. The mixture is left for 2-3 days with occasional stirring. Fluid is expected light color. If the shade is darker, the solution is additionally mixed with water before use;
  • soaking. This method of producing organic fertilizer helps to eliminate excess acidity. Excrement is poured with liquid and insisted for 2 days. After settling, the water is drained, and fresh litter is added. This procedure is carried out 2-3 times. The substance is used by instillation into the grooves between rows or plants.

Cow dung is one of the best known and most used organic fertilizers.

cow dung

Fertilizer is effective and can be used for most plants, but to achieve a positive result, you need to follow some rules. Fresh mullein can only be used to craft warm beds. Most often, rotted manure is used.

Making organic fertilizer from cow dung is quite simple:

  1. Straw is lined at the bottom.
  2. Excrement is placed on top.
  3. As the heap grows, lamination is carried out, organic matter, peat or soil is laid between the layers.
  4. After reaching a height of about 1.5 m, the pile is covered with oilcloth.
  5. For complete rotting, you need to periodically water the pile, you can remove the film during the rain.
  6. The decomposition period is from 6 to 12 months.

Now you can simply scatter the mullein around the garden from a ratio of 4–5 kg per 1 m2. Alternative option use - a solution, it is prepared on the basis of a ratio of 1 to 10. For infusion, you need to wait 1 day, then add ash. The mixture is used for foliar top dressing. After the procedure, you need to abundantly fill the area.

Horse dung

Most often used as a humus. At proper storage horse manure will contain many useful substances, the amount is 2-3 times more than in its raw form. Fertilizer can be applied in an amount of up to 5 buckets under a tree and up to 3 under a bush. You can simply cover the ground with a thickness of 10 cm.

Horse manure is a valuable highly concentrated organic fertilizer

An infusion of manure and nettle proved to be very effective. For cooking you need:

  1. Fill a container with nettles with water.
  2. Infuse the mixture for 3 days.
  3. Horse manure is added to the liquid, the proportion is 1 to 10.
  4. Leave the mixture for another 2 days.

After preparation, you can spray or water the plants.

Organic fertilizers of vegetable origin

Organics are used to give high-quality physical parameters to the soil, it becomes loose and fluffy.

In order to improve soil properties, several basic fertilizers of a purely vegetable nature are often used:

  • peat. You can add only lowland type, which provides high fertile qualities. Most often used as part of compost;
  • to alkalize the soil, it is recommended to add lime or ash, it can be mixed with peat. When preparing a complex composition, it is necessary to mix 1 ton of peat with 30–50 kg of lime and 50–75 kg of ash. The composition is composted, this allows you to convert nitrogen into an easily accessible form. The process takes from 6 months to 1 year or more;

  • phosphorus flour is added to the compost to increase the amount of phosphorus. In 1 ton of the mixture, from 10 to 20 kg of flour is added;
  • sludge has a rich nitrogen composition. It is applied in in kind or after drying. In the first case, about 30 kg are added per 10 m2, and in the second - 10 kg. To improve the quality of the fertilizer, you can add 500 g of superphosphate and 400 g of potassium chloride type;
  • compost. All plant waste is suitable for cooking (except for resistant weeds and diseased plants). For cooking, you need to dig a hole and cover the bottom layer with peat, about 10–15 cm. Compost 15–30 cm thick is laid in the base. All layers are watered and shifted with manure, droppings or earth. Every 1-2 months, the pile is poured, and it is also recommended to dig it up to get air access to all layers. After cooking, a homogeneous mass should be obtained, which crumbles and has a dark shade.

Organic is the key good growth plants and rich soil, not a single successful gardener can do without it today. It is only important to follow the rules of preparation, otherwise you can not multiply the harvest, but ruin it.

To be a good gardener, it is important to understand what the classification of fertilizers is based on, and what types of fertilizers are suitable in a particular case

Each fertilizer contains one or more active components - nutrients that directly affect the development and growth of plants. The content of the active component is usually expressed as a percentage of the dry mass of the substance. For nitrogen fertilizers, the content of nitrogen (N) is singled out, for phosphorus - phosphorus oxide (P2O5), sulfur - sulfur (S), calcium - calcium oxide (CaO), potassium - potassium oxide (K2O), magnesium - magnesium oxide (MgO), and Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, B, Co, Mo are released in microfertilizers.

Fertilizer classification

To make it easier to understand the huge number of dressings, it is important to understand on what grounds the classification of fertilizers is based.

By chemical nature

The most important division of dressings is into mineral and organic substances. Obviously, mineral top dressings consist of inorganic compounds, and organic top dressings consist mainly of organic ones. But some simple organic substances fell into the category of inorganic compounds: carbamide, oxamide, ureaform and others, since they are produced by an industrial method.

By chemical composition and active substance

Industrial types of fertilizers containing a single active element are considered simple. If we consider top dressing from the point of view of the active substance, then they can be divided into nitrogenous, potassium, calcium, manganese, phosphorus, boric, etc. But each of these groups can contain different chemical composition compounds, such as ammonium sulfate or nitrate, potassium sulfate or chloride, etc.

If the composition of the fertilizer contains more than one nutrient, then it is classified as complex top dressing. Here are some fertilizers containing several nutrients:

  • complex (when different nutrients are included in one molecule of the compound - ammophos, potassium nitrate);
  • mixed (mechanical mixture of complex and simple dressings in a certain proportion);
  • complex-mixed (obtained in one technological process by mixing simple dressings with gaseous or liquid substances - nitroammophoska, nitrophoska, carboammophoska).

By purpose and type of impact on the plant

Fertilizers of direct action supply nutrients to plants directly, directly affecting their development and growth (nitrogen, potash, phosphorus, manure and microfertilizers). Indirect fertilizing improves the agrochemical, agrophysical and other properties of the soil, while not only nourishing the plants, but also improving the conditions for their nutrition (gypsum, limestone). Moreover, some fertilizers can be included in both of these groups (manure, phosphogypsum, metallurgy slags).

By physical condition

Fertilizers are divided into solid and liquid. Liquid ones are either the result of a technological process, or solutions of simple and complex dressings are specially mixed to obtain them. If complex liquid fertilizers contain solid particles, they are classified as suspended complex top dressings. Solid fertilizers with particles smaller than a millimeter are classified as powder, and those with larger particles are classified as granular. Granular top dressings are more expensive, but they have better technological performance.

By influence onpHsoil

If the plant absorbs mainly cations from the composition of the fertilizer, then it gives off hydrogen ions in return, acidifying the soil. Therefore, fertilizers such as ammonium sulfate or potassium chloride are considered physiologically acidic.

Mineral fertilizers

The most extensive class of dressings is produced in industrial environment Therefore, mineral types of fertilizers and their application are important to study especially carefully. They contain nutrients in the form of salts. They are usually obtained from natural compounds or by industrial synthesis.

Nitrogen fertilizers

During the growing season, plants absorb nitrogen unevenly. Consumption increases during the period of increased growth of shoots, leaves and fruits. Soil moisture and weather conditions also affect the rate of nitrogen consumption - in a drought, nitrogen is almost not needed for plants, and its excess will even be harmful to them.

Phosphate fertilizers

Thanks to phosphorus, the ability of cells to retain water increases, and this leads to an increase in their drought resistance and resistance to low temperatures.

Particularly affected by a lack of phosphorus annual plants, since phosphorus is most needed at the beginning of growth, spitting of seedlings and emergence of seedlings, as well as when the plant begins to bear fruit.

potash fertilizers

Potassium is needed by plants in order to absorb from the air. carbon dioxide, it promotes the migration of sugars (carbohydrates), has a positive effect on drought resistance and frost resistance, with its abundance, plant fruits are better stored. If there is a lack of potassium, then the resistance of plants to fungal infections is markedly reduced. For tree plants, such as berry bushes and fruit trees, the value of potassium is especially high.

Since potash fertilizers slightly acidify the soil, it is advisable to apply them together with some alkaline top dressing, for example, lime or dolomite flour.


trace elements

Although plants need very few of them, if at least one microelement is missing in the soil, all the efforts of the gardener can go to waste. With a lack of trace elements in plants, the metabolism is upset, which affects their appearance: fruit corking occurs (sometimes called “summer breath”), the crown becomes transparent, young shoots die off, rosette, small-leaved and speckled, interveinal chlorosis and “witch's brooms” appear.

Complex fertilizers

They contain at least two nutrients. There are many options, in which potassium, nitrogen, phosphorus and various trace elements are contained in different proportions and combinations. The nutritional complex of these top dressings is balanced in such a way as to facilitate their work for amateur gardeners. That is why complex fertilizers for garden flowers can be applied to all their types without fear of harming them.

Organic and mineral-organic fertilizers

Nutrients are contained in organic substances of animal or vegetable origin, therefore, top dressing from them is called organic. In mineral-organic preparations there are both organic and mineral components obtained by mixing - in this case, the compatibility of fertilizers is especially important.

The following foods are considered organic:

  • cow, horse, rabbit, goat manure;
  • bird droppings;
  • peat;
  • composts;
  • green manure;
  • brown coal.

These are all local top dressings, which are usually prepared and accumulated on the spot, and not imported from outside. Organic fertilizers are a powerful source of food and energy for microorganisms living in the soil. Why do we need organic fertilizers? If they are applied in large quantities and regularly, then the soil is cultivated, which is enriched with humus, in addition, its physicochemical and biological properties, the regime of water and air circulation are improved.

Fertilizers also perform an important anti-erosion function, as they accelerate the emergence of seedlings, which further protect the soil from wind and water erosion. Top dressing leads to increased development of the above-ground mass of plants, as well as the root system, due to which the soil binds.

However, not all plants like a large amount of organic top dressing. For example, an excess of manure in the soil may be the answer to the question why cucumbers are bitter.

Humic fertilizers

The properties and origin of such top dressings are different, but the content of humic substances in them is common. This is a special type of organic matter, which owes its origin to the processes of long-term biochemical decomposition, when plant litter, including leaves, branches and roots, as well as animal remains and protein components of microorganisms, decompose and turn into humus. In the present biological period, this process of formation and accumulation occurs in soils. The composition of the soil contains fulvic acids with salts - fulvas, humic acids with salts - humates, as well as strong compounds of these acids with minerals contained in the soil - humins.

Liquid humic supplements and fertilizers

In "organic" farming, liquid fertilizers are often used in the form of plant infusions. They contain a lot of nitrogen and potassium, they are easily absorbed by plants, therefore they are effective top dressing during the growth period. They are introduced into the soil or sprayed with crops (foliar top dressing).

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