Fertilizers are critical inputs in crop production, and their application plays a significant role in crop production. Benedict T Palen Jr. always recommends that farmers follow the correct usage of fertilizers to increase the yield and quality of the crops. However, the use of fertilizers at the wrong time or in the wrong way is not good for the environment since they pollute water. In using fertilizers, there are proper measures that should be taken to ensure that the intention of applying fertilizer is achieved. Some of the important factors that farmers should consider as they apply fertilizers in the field include:
Test Soil
Nutrient Levels
According to BenedictT Palen Jr., it is important to take a soil test to check the current
status of the nutrients. Soil sample analysis is important for determining the
type and quantity of fertilizer for proper plant nutrition. It can help one
avoid over- or under-application of the formulations. High fertilization rates
are unnecessary and potentially detrimental to water sources when the nutrients
run off into them. It results in poor yields, low quality, and nutrient
depletion in the plant’s tissue. Soil testing can be done once in approximately
2-3 years. This way, alterations in the soil can be observed.
Use
Proper Equipment
Equip yourself
with well-calibrated equipment that is specially designed for the distribution
of fertilizer only. Where the equipment has been improperly calibrated,
the application of fertilizer will be in the wrong quantities. If this
equipment is faulty, the fertilizer will be distributed randomly in the field.
Make sure equipment is ready for use and functional before each exercise. This
means that the spreader should always be calibrated to ensure it meets the
necessary work standards due to wear and tear. High-quality equipment helps to
increase productivity and efficiency while working with the soils with
fertilizers.
Follow
Application Guidelines
Follow the application
techniques, the right time or interval for applying the fertilizer, whether it
is the granular or liquid type, and the correct amount or dosage rate that
corresponds to the fertilizer. Recommendations are made by fertilizer producers
and representatives of local agricultural departments. Fertilizing the plants
in the right manner and at the right time is important because doing so in the
wrong manner and at the wrong time has consequences such as plant damage and
ground and surface water pollution. When using fertilizer in the field, if one
applies a small quantity, then the crops will not be able to grow and offer
good yields. Adhering strictly to the guidelines enhances the nutritional value
of the plant food and minimizes the harm to the environment.
Keep
Records
It is important to
document information on fertilizer sources, the nutrient analysis,
the date of application, the rate used, and the location of fields that
have been fertilized. Records keep detailed info that enables farmers to
monitor the outputs and outcomes of their farming activities. Records can also
be helpful because they offer records of past events, which could be useful in
future predictions. It would help keep application logs as accurate as possible
from year to year to enhance practices over time.
Conclusion