Choosing the right fertiliser is one part of increasing efficiency. Using an adequate and balanced use of nitrate-based solution – making sure that no more and no less than necessary is applied- is essential. Nitrate-based solutions are part of an ongoing efficiency process that begins long before fertiliser is applied and reaps benefits for a long time after the season’s plants are harvested.
Here is how our nitrate-based solutions can help you farm more efficiently before, during, and after you fertilise.
Before fertilising: precise measurement for accurate dosage
Without accurate data about your plants’ nutrient needs in real-time, you can easily apply the wrong amount. Too little will result in poorer soil and low-quality crops. Overdoing it will not only waste money spent on fertiliser, it will leave excess nitrogen in the soil that has negative environmental effects.
Precise measurement in the field is made easier with digital tools such as Yara N-Tester, which allows you to measure nitrogen needs on the spot. These insights will ensure you achieve optimal yield and nutrition quality.
During fertilising: accurate and even spreading
Accurate, consistent spreading is also a key component in maximising efficiency. Because of its high density, YaraMila and YaraRega provide more flexible and accurate spreading. The products are not at risk of segregation during transport or handling like blends, allowing it to be spread or banded evenly. Particularly under varied weather conditions, as even light breezes can generate significant spreading errors with urea-based products.
After fertilising: better absorption for higher yield and lower residual nitrogen
Plants love nitrates. They absorb them quickly and easily, and in turn grow into healthier, higher-quality crops that contain more nutrients.
Choosing a nitrate-based solution will ensure a higher yield for every kilogram of product applied.
The rapid uptake of nitrates, split applications, and making the correct decisions for N-rate, gives more control over the amount of excess nitrogen remaining in the soil after the plants have absorbed the nutrients they need. Excess nitrogen leftover in the soil after harvest can seep down below the root zone, and leach into groundwater.
Nitrate-based fertilisers have a low acidifying effect on the soil – saving both time and money spent on liming after harvest to correct the soil balance.
Why are nitrate-based solutions more efficient?
- Produce more with less. Efficient use of nitrogen is essential to achieving maximum yield and a greater return on each kg of fertiliser you buy.
- Preferred by plants. Nitrogen is a vital nutrient, and nitrates are the preferred nitrogen form for most crops.
- Better safeguard against weather. Nitrates have efficient uptake even in conditions that are cool and wet or hot and dry, driving higher yields than alternative fertiliser types.
- Grow healthier roots. Early applied nitrates promote the growth of well-developed roots, which are important for capturing nutrients and are a precursor to higher nitrogen use efficiency.