Colorado Man Benedict T Palen Jr - Things To Consider While Applying Fertilizer Into The Field

 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

If fertilizers need to be applied in agriculture, it is important to follow the guidelines developed by research that do the following. Benedict T Palen Jr. suggests growing crops with nutrition and increasing profit while preserving natural resources. These are the four crucial areas that farmers should be reminded of when it comes to the proper application of fertilizer in their fields.