Mineral fertilizersare widely used in horticulture, both in commercial and amateur crops. There is a very large selection of this type of fertilizer on sale. Therefore, it is worth finding out whichtypes of mineral fertilizersare suitable for use in the garden, how to dose them andhow to store mineral fertilizersHere's everything you need to know aboutapplication of mineral fertilizers !
Mineral fertilizer
Mineral fertilizers - types
Various types of mineral fertilizers are available for sale In order to choose the right one for our plants, it is worth finding out how they differ. The basic division of mineral fertilizers is based on their composition. Thus, we can distinguishsingle-component mineral fertilizersintended for the precise delivery of a specific nutrient andmulti-component mineral fertilizersor otherwise complex fertilizers, usually used to supply selected groups of plants . These are, for example, fertilizers for conifers, fertilizers for flowering plants or fertilizers for fruit plants and vegetables.
The second division is based on the physical properties of the offered preparations and divides mineral fertilizers into a liquid suspension of nutrients in water, i.e.liquid mineral fertilizers , and a solid form, usually granulated to facilitate its application, i.e.granulated mineral fertilizersfor sprinkling application.
Finished products can also be classified according to the content of the most important micro or macro elements.Then groups of nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium fertilizers appear. They usually contain only one component or possibly have a small addition of additional micro- or macroelements.
Mineral fertilizers - application
In order to ensure that the nutritional needs of plants are properly met, before applyingmineral fertilizers , it is necessary to get acquainted with the tabular fertilization requirements of the plants to be fed. It is also worth carrying out an analysis of soil fertility by returning soil samples from the plot to the nearest agricultural chemistry facility. Only soil analysis will answer the question of what nutrients may be missing in the soil.
How to use phosphorus, calcium and magnesium fertilizers
Mineral fertilizersphosphorus, calcium and magnesium fertilizers should be delivered before sowing or before planting plants in the beds. These nutrients are taken up by the root system from the soil layer near it.They do not move quickly in the soil, so it would be pointless to deliver them to the ground surface when the demand for them is greatest, as it will take too long before they reach the root ball.
How to use potassium and nitrogen fertilizers
Potassium and nitrogen fertilizers can be used both before sowing and for top dressing during the growing season. On lighter soils, the supply of potassium and nitrogen is done only for top dressing, because these elements can be leached into deeper layers of the soil, making them inaccessible to the roots of the cultivated plants.
When usingmineral fertilizersloose, it is necessary to mix them with the top layer of soil after sprinkling them. In the case of fertilization in the form of a liquid, it is worth watering the plants well after fertilization to accelerate the penetration of nutrients into the root zone. It is also often recommended to dilute them with water for irrigation.Always follow the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging and do not exceed the recommended doses, because mineral fertilizers, being highly concentrated, may, in excessive amounts, cause damage to the roots and the phenomenon of soil salinity.
Mineral fertilizers - threats
The use of mineral fertilizers , especially in too high doses, may be associated with the risk of environmental contamination, including soil and groundwater. Therefore, mineral fertilizers should be used with caution and never exceed the recommended doses.
The use of mineral fertilizers also entails risks that directly affect people. As many mineral fertilizers are treated as products hazardous to he alth, the basic recommendations of the manufacturer should be followed when using them. Under no circumstances should the preparation get into the respiratory tract, digestive system or near the eyes. Avoid contact with bare skin by wearing work clothes and gloves.In the event of skin contact with the preparation, its remains should be removed as soon as possible and the place rinsed with plenty of water. If there are signs of irritation or skin changes, contact a doctor as soon as possible.
Do not underestimate personal protective equipment whenusing mineral fertilizers , because mineral fertilizers can pose a serious threat to he alth after getting into the human body.
Mineral fertilizers - storage
The storage of mineral fertilizersshould be done in such a way that the stored fertilizers do not pose a threat to the environment and other people that may be found in the fertilizer storage area. For this reason, they should be protected against weather conditions (e.g. against moisture) and against access of children.
Properly storedmineral fertilizersshould be in original, sealed packages, placed in a dry, cool, and shaded place with good ventilation.In warehouses where fertilizers are stored, open fire must not be used because some chemical compounds released from leaky packages may be flammable. Also, moisture getting through leaky packaging has a negative effect on the quality of most fertilizers, which are highly hygroscopic products, i.e. they absorb water vapor from the air.
