Owners of gardens and summer cottages, who grow vegetables and fruits, use a variety of methods to obtain a rich harvest. And one of the most effective methods is the use of mineral fertilizers to enrich the soil and feed plants.

Article outline

Types of fertilizers

Fertilizers are of two main types:

• organic- these are useful substances, which are obtained as a result of the decomposition of animal and vegetable products.
• mineral fertilizers have an inorganic nature of origin and their composition does not have a carbon skeleton.

In this article, we will consider mineral fertilizers.

Mineral fertilizers are divided into two types:

• Simple - consist of one component.
• Complex - consist of two or more components.

The application of fertilizers in the complex is much more efficient, due to the fact that the soil comes with different acidity and the presence of various substances useful for growth, and it is very difficult to find out exactly what is missing.

The main types of simple mineral fertilizers:

Almost all of these types of fertilizers will be discussed in this article, except for microfertilizers - we have already considered them here.

1. Ammonium form, contains ammonium ions. This is an acidic fertilizer, which must be diluted with lime before use (for deoxidation). It is poorly soluble, so it is recommended to use it as a top dressing from autumn.
2. Nitrate fertilizers- This is sodium. It contains nitrogen in the form of an acid, due to which it is easily soluble in water. This form of fertilizer is alkaline and is recommended for use in acidic soils. Saltpeter can be used both in spring and in autumn or summer as a top dressing, but in small doses, otherwise in case of an overdose of saltpeter, nitrates accumulate in the fruits, which are harmful to the body.
3. Ammonium nitrate form, the nitrogen content in it is about 30 percent, the fertilizer is acidic, well soluble. It is quickly absorbed by vegetation. Ammonium nitrate can act even on unheated soil. Scattering it over the snow, she will melt it, paving the way to the soil.
4. has about 40% nitrogen. The fertilizer is acidic and lime must be added if used. It is well soluble and digestible by cultures. Urea is best used as a liquid top dressing., since in this case the fixation of nitrogen in the soil is much better. They need to fertilize the soil to the depth of root growth. If you spread it on the surface, then most of the nitrogen will simply dissolve.

Potash - this kind of simple mineral fertilizers, which contribute to the accumulation of starch and sugar in plants. They give plants resistance to various diseases and adverse weather (heat, frost).

Potash fertilizers include:

• – it is obtained from potash ores. It has dual properties due to the fact that it contains chlorine, which is not suitable for all crops, but due to the presence of many other useful elements in the composition, it is useful. Potassium chloride is recommended to be used in the fall, so that there is time to wash out all harmful substances.
• – does not contain impurities, chlorine, sodium, magnesium. Therefore, they can fertilize all types of crops and in any season.
• Potassium salt - consists of potassium chloride, kainite and sylvinite, its properties are the same as those of potassium chloride. Read .

Phosphorus top dressing is necessary during flowering and fruiting.

Varieties of phosphate fertilizers:

• Phosphorite flour is a popular top dressing of the phosphorus group. It must be applied on soils with acidity, since phosphorus has an effect only in interaction with acid. One of the advantages of this flour is its longevity - having doubled the fertilizer, it will last for several years.
• Superphosphate simple - has sulfur and gypsum in its composition, it is used for any soil. Mainly used for feeding fruit and berry trees.
• Superphosphate double - does not contain gypsum, but phosphorus, unlike simple superphosphate, contains twice as much.

Their composition, as mentioned above, contains two or more trace elements. They are divided into types:

• by the number of trace elements - double, triple;
• according to the method of production - mixed, complex, as well as complex-mixed.

The most common types:

How to apply mineral fertilizers - the main principles

The process of feeding plants is very responsible and requires compliance with all standards. Having understood the varieties of fertilizers, it is clear that some of them can be used as the main ones, and some only in the form of top dressing.

Each species has its own norms and methods of application, which are described in the instructions. But there is general tips suitable for all kinds.

• The use of food utensils for breeding fertilizer is not desirable.
• Storage of chemical fertilizers should be carried out in vacuum packages.
• When applying top dressing, dosages must be strictly observed.

Experienced farmers are also advised to heed these tips:

• If top dressing with mineral fertilizers is carried out through the soil, it is necessary to avoid getting it on the vegetative parts of plants. If this still happened, then the plants need to be rinsed with water.
• The highest quality result of a rich harvest is achieved in the process of alternating organic and mineral fertilizers.
• Mineral fertilizers in dry form are recommended to be applied during top dressing to well-moistened beds, as a result of which the applied concentrate will be softened.
• For high-quality assimilation of trace elements, it is recommended to use liquid mineral fertilizers.

When laying dry fertilizers, you need to immediately cover them with a small layer of soil. The depth should be small so that top dressing is available to the roots.

Some tips from seasoned gardeners:

• If there is a shortage of nitrogen in the ground, then other fertilizers (potassium and phosphorus groups) without combination with nitrogen will not bring any benefits, so you need to apply them all in combination.
• With overgrown plants, it is better to use a foliar feeding method.
• Foliar top dressing of bushes and trees must be done in the spring, when the leaves have just formed.
• In the case of applying mineral fertilizers along with organic ones, their rate must be reduced by three times.

Fertilizers of the nitrogen form are recommended to be applied in the spring, as they are easily soluble, due to which they are quickly washed out with the flow of moisture from irrigation or precipitation. It is necessary to spread the granules immediately before sowing. You need to close them up to a depth of 10-20 cm. Or you can top dressing locally, pouring directly into the holes.

Which fertilizer is better - mineral or organic?

Methods of mineral feeding

Top dressing with mineral fertilizers can be done in two ways:

• root way, using dry or soluble mineral fertilizers, with their introduction into the soil with or without irrigation.
• foliar top dressing mineral fertilizers - this is spraying the vegetative parts of the plant.

Fertilizers can be used at all stages of land work.

• They are introduced in the autumn to restore soil fertility.
• Seeds are treated with various nutrient solutions of mineral fertilizers for a good start.
• Vitamin and mineral top dressing is introduced directly into the seedling furrows.

Proper use of mineral fertilizers

Based on the foregoing, it is clear that mineral fertilizers have many types, having different components, which is why they are not suitable for all crops. Some are for vegetables, others for trees.

Consider the most common types of plants and fertilizers suitable for them.

During the period of growing seedlings, the lack of any microelements manifests itself in slow growth, loss of color and fall of leaves. In the case of an excess of mineral components, there is a possibility of plant death or burns, which will also adversely affect the growth of seedlings. Therefore, you need to study the instructions and, according to the indicated dosage, make them.

The main components for good seedling growth are nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

Mineral fertilizer for cucumbers

A crop such as a tomato is very sensitive to the quality of the soil and the applied fertilizers. But tomatoes are still better to underfeed than overfeed. In order to avoid overdose, phased fertilizer is performed. It depends on the stages of vegetation of crops.

During the period of abundant flowering fertilize with a combined solution of mineral and organic fertilizers, this is cow or bird manure and potassium sulfate.

During the formation of the ovary and their maturation, superphosphate and sodium humate are used. Also, mineral fertilizers can be mixed with.

With grapes, the feeding process is different. If the soil was fertilized when planting seedlings, then top dressing will not be needed for the next 5 years.

To get a rich grape harvest, you need the following elements:

• Nitrogen - as for any plant, it is needed to build up green mass. Application must be made in the spring. Fertilizing with nitrogen in the fall can be harmful, as overgrowth of greenery will prevent the vine from maturing.
• Phosphorus- necessary during the flowering period.
• Potassium - contributes to the early ripening of grapes and its vines. Also prepares grapes for wintering.
• Copper- improves frost resistance and enhances shoot growth.
• Bor - It is introduced during the period of ovary brushes and their growth, as it increases the sugar content of fruits and accelerates their ripening.

Many of the elements are in the ground, but with additional feeding, the grape harvest will improve significantly.

Mineral fertilizer compatibility table

Summing up, we can say that mineral fertilizers are of great importance for obtaining a rich and high-quality crop. They are divided into two main groups: organic and mineral. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages, but subject to all requirements and norms, the result will be positive.

What are mineral fertilizers(be careful, the video is uplifting)

Not everyone knows what types of fertilizers exist today. But in order to understand the types of fertilizers and their classification, you do not need to be a certified agronomist at all.

In nature, since ancient times, there has been a natural process of filling the earth with elements useful for plants. But a man appeared and made his own adjustments - he began to intensively exploit plots of land suitable for crops and seize more and more plots in order to increase the amount of agricultural products received.

During this process, there were practically no undeveloped lands left, and those on which crops took place began to be depleted.

The old method - to leave the land fallow (let it rest and gain strength) turned out to be ineffective, but a solution was found. Organic and mineral fertilizers appeared.

Separation of fertilizers by characteristics

Fertilizers are classified according to the following criteria:

Mineral, chemical and organic fertilizers

Organic and mineral fertilizers differ in their origin:

• Mineral or chemical fertilizers are the result of the work of chemical enterprises that use inorganic substances, mainly mineral salts, in their production.
• Organic - obtained from the components of vital activity. Therefore, they are a product of natural origin.

Further, the classification of fertilizers occurs according to the types of nutrients that they contain.

For example, chemical fertilizers are based on nitrogen, phosphorus or potassium.

According to the agrochemical significance, fertilizers are divided into direct and indirect. The former are a source of nutrition for plants, the latter improve soil properties. But such a division is very conditional, because. direct fertilizers are also involved in indirect interaction.

Direct fertilizers necessarily contain the main nutrients - nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which are added to the soil for crops in large quantities. Moreover, if chemical fertilizers contain only one element, then they are called simple. If two or more - complex.

Complex fertilizers can be double or triple (full). Such terms are introduced solely for the purpose of determining the presence of the main elements (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium), since. in absolutely pure form they are not used.

The division of fertilizers into simple, mixed and complex indicates the way they are obtained:

• Simple, have only one element in their composition.
• Mixed, obtained in the process of mechanical action (fertilizer mixing).
• Complex, are the result of chemical reactions.

Also, in order to increase the efficiency of transportation and storage, concentrated and ballast-free fertilizers are produced.

Those fertilizers that are created for a specific soil and a specific crop are called balanced.

Mineral fertilizers

They are produced in three types - ammonia, contain ammonium sulfate, nitrate, the presence of ammonium nitrate and amide, urea is present.

• Ammonia nitrogen introduced into the soil with weak acidity is well absorbed by plants through the root system and can be in it for quite a long time. Apply before sowing (in spring) and after harvest (in autumn).
• Nitrate nitrogen is introduced into the soil in the form of a solution, so its duration is limited. Applied with the beginning of spring. It is easily absorbed by plants and can be used in the summer as top dressing.
• Amide nitrogen is a fast-acting, soil-acidifying fertilizer. At high ambient temperatures it changes to the ammonia form. Mainly used for top dressing.

1. Based on phosphorus (phosphoric).

They are divided into water-soluble, semi-soluble and sparingly soluble.

• Simple and double superphosphate is an easily soluble fertilizer that is used on any type of soil. Careful mixing with water does not require, because. the dissolution process is easy and without mechanical action.
• The precipitate is a semi-soluble fertilizer. Insoluble in water, weak acids are used for this. Used on acidic soils.
• Phosphorite flour is a sparingly soluble fertilizer. Available to plants only on acidic soils. When making, requires thorough mixing with the soil.

1. Based on potassium (potassium).

They are concentrated chloride and sulfate salts.

• Potassium chloride is highly soluble in water. Penetration into the soil is somewhat slowed down. It is used on clay and loamy soils, taking into account that the roots of plants are poorly developed and require a quick supply of nutrients.
• Potassium salt - easily soluble in water. It is most used on sandy soils to compensate for the lack of potassium. In autumn, the use of this fertilizer is not desirable, because. rapidly washed out by groundwater.

1. Based on lime (lime).

Used to eliminate excessive acidity of the soil and enrich it with calcium.

1. Chlorinated fertilizers.

organic fertilizers

Biohumus, sapropel, humus, peat, manure, bird droppings, guano, compost are organic fertilizers. You can also add complex organic fertilizers to them.

Organic fertilizers are produced from substances that are formed as a result of the natural process of life of plants, animals and birds.

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of its state - slightly decomposed, semi-decayed, rotted and humus.

• The amount of nutrients in manure can vary depending on which animal it is derived from. Horse and sheep manure, for example, contains less water and more organic and inorganic matter than cow and pig manure.
• The effectiveness of manure application depends on its quality, applied volumes and soil and climatic conditions. It is used in spring and autumn, depending on the stage of its condition. Fresh - better not to use.
• Manure increases productivity not only in the year it is applied to the soil, but also for several years after that.
• Depending on the technology of its production, there is bedding (semi-liquid) and bedding-free (liquid) manure. They have some differences in composition, methods of use and storage.

1. Bird droppings - is considered the best organic fertilizer.

Especially chicken and pigeon. This fertilizer is best used in the fall, evenly distributed over the entire area of ​​​​the land, due to the high content of nitrogen in the nitrate form. The use of bird droppings in liquid dressings is the most effective.

1. Peat - contains not very many nutrients. But its use can improve the structure of the soil by increasing the humus content.

Peat fertilizer is distinguished by the degree of decomposition - high and lowland. Horse has the remains of vegetation and high acidity.

Peat is brought in almost at any time of the year. A prerequisite for application is the addition of lime.

1. Silt - is deposited at the bottom of water bodies (ponds, lakes, rivers). It contains a lot of humus and mineral elements in its structure. Before applying to the soil, it must be well ventilated (withstand some time in the open air). Successfully used on sandy soils.

1. Sawdust and tree bark are an inexpensive way to increase soil fertility and improve its moisture capacity and breathability. It is introduced into the soil in a rotted form or with other components.
2. Siderates are tall plants plowed into the soil. They act on the soil in much the same way as fresh manure.
3. Complex organic fertilizers - consist of organic matter and minerals that are combined chemically or mechanically. The result of processing bird droppings or manure by biofermentation.

Physical properties

The types of fertilizers and the classification of fertilizers also take into account the aggregate (physical) state. They can be solid, liquid or even gaseous. The use of gaseous fertilizers, for example - carbon dioxide, is carried out in complete isolation from the atmosphere.

After manufacture and transportation, before application, the physical properties of fertilizers can be changed.

A very important component of physical properties is the ability of the initial product to dissolve, because. Plants get all their nutrients from water.

The types of fertilizers in this regard are diverse, but coarse-grained and granular ones are in the first place. This is due to the fact that with local application to the soil, the process of natural leaching slows down, and the period of action increases with minimal loss of useful components.

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Video - Fertilizer classification

Are you curious about what plants eat? It turns out that they can get all the necessary substances from the soil, air and water. What is this "food"? Here are its main components: water, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, copper, molybdenum, calcium, iron, manganese, zinc, sulfur and so on - almost the entire periodic table is included in the menu of our green friends. All this is called inorganic mineral fertilizers (except for water and carbon, of course).

there are simple and complex. Simple fertilizers contain any one element (for example, nitrogen or phosphorus), while complex fertilizers consist of two or more components. The wisdom of mother nature lies in the fact that each plant independently synthesizes the necessary organic elements from inorganic ones. But far from always our green friends have enough natural mineral inorganics. Some soils (clay) are poor in manganese and iron, somewhere there is not enough copper and zinc, and some () are poor in nitrogen and potassium.

Therefore, we use a variety of mineral fertilizers to feed garden plants, not forgetting to take them into account on the site. Consider the most popular types (I do not indicate the dosage, since it is printed directly on the fertilizer packages).

nitrogen fertilizers

The main component of the nitrogen fertilizer group, as the name implies, is nitrogen.

These fertilizers contribute to the development of the aerial parts of plants and are available in 4 forms:

• nitrate form(sodium and calcium nitrate) in which nitrogen is contained in the form of an acid, easily soluble in water. Saltpeter is applied to the soil in autumn or early spring, in small doses (an overdose contributes to the accumulation in fruits harmful to human health) is used in top dressing. Saltpeter is recommended for soils and plants with a short growing season (, early,);

• ammonium form(ammonium sulfate), where ammonium ions are in "free floating". Ammonium sulfate is introduced into the soil in the fall, since it dissolves rather poorly in the soil that follows (ammonium sulfate is a physiologically acidic fertilizer). To do this, 1.3 kg of lime is added to 1 kg of fertilizer. Ammonium sulfate is not indifferent, and late cabbage and other plants with a long growing season;

• amide form() - the most concentrated nitrogen fertilizer, which is converted in the soil into ammonium carbonate, which is necessary for obtaining a bountiful harvest. It is applied under trees and shrubs - either directly into the soil when loosening, or as an aqueous solution when watering. Urea is also a physiologically acidic fertilizer, which means that the soil needs to be deoxidized (add 2 kg of lime to 1 kg of urea);

• ammonium nitrate form(ammonium nitrate) is a physiologically acidic fertilizer, one part of which is easily soluble in water and freely moves in the soil, and the other is of delayed action. Ammonium nitrate is used for top dressing, grain crops. It is especially effective in combination with phosphorus and potassium.

Fertilizing with nitrogen fertilizers is carried out in several steps, strictly following the instructions on the package: here it is better to follow the principle: it is better to underfertilize than to overfertilize.

Phosphate fertilizers

significantly accelerate the flowering of plants and fruit set. Phosphorus is usually incorporated into the soil in autumn or early spring. It is poorly soluble in water: the period from application to the soil to reaching the roots will be 1.5-2 months.

Here are some of the most popular types of phosphate fertilizers:

• simple- water-soluble fertilizer, which contains gypsum and sulfur, is used for all types of soils. It can be poured into rows and holes, or it can be used in top dressing. Contains from 14% to 20% phosphorus and is usually applied under berry bushes and fruit trees;

• double superphosphate- a simple fertilizer, highly soluble in water. Contains sulfur and phosphorus (45% -50%), applied under berry bushes and fruit trees;

• phosphate rock- sparingly soluble fertilizer, contains up to 25% phosphorus. It is applied only to acidic soils, since phosphorus becomes available to plants only under the influence of acid. Phosphorite flour, introduced into the soil in high doses, provides plants with phosphorus for several years.

potash fertilizers

Potassium helps not only to increase the yield of plants, but also increases their resistance to diseases, increases the shelf life of fruits and significantly improves their taste. rarely used in its pure form: as a rule, they are combined with nitrogen, phosphorus and trace elements (copper, zinc, magnesium, iron, and so on).

All potash fertilizers dissolve well in water, and the following are the most popular of them:

• potassium chloride- natural fertilizer produced from potash ores. On the one hand, the fertilizer contains chlorine, which is undesirable for some horticultural crops, and on the other hand, it is a storehouse of valuable elements necessary for plant nutrition. Therefore, it is better to introduce potassium chloride into the soil in the fall - by spring, its "harmful" part is washed out. Particularly fond of potassium are potatoes, barley, beets, buckwheat and some cereals;

• potassium salt- contains potassium chloride, sylvinite and kainite. By action it is similar to potassium chloride, it is introduced into the soil only in autumn;

• potassium sulfate - does not contain chlorine, suitable for all crops, root crops are especially responsive to it. It is applied both directly to the soil and used in top dressing. It is combined with all macro- and microfertilizers, except those containing calcium.

Complex mineral fertilizers

The group of complex mineral fertilizers includes:

• ammophos- chlorine-free, nitrate-free fertilizer containing nitrogen (52%) and phosphorus (12%). Suitable for all types of vegetable and fruit crops;

• diammophoska- granulated nitrogen (10%) - phosphorus (26%) - potash (26%) fertilizer, which contains microelements (calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, sulfur and others), which significantly increase the agronomic value of diammophoska. Used for all groups of plants;

• nitroammophoska- compound fertilizer containing nitrogen (16%), phosphorus (16%), potassium (16%), sulfur (2%). perfectly absorbed by plants, suitable for use on soils of any composition and for all types of plants;

• nitrophoska- complex nitrogen (11%) - phosphorus (10%) -potassium (11%) fertilizer, used as the main plant nutrition. It is used for all crops, it is applied to heavy soils in autumn, it can be applied to light soils in spring.

Microfertilizers

There is another group of mineral fertilizers - microfertilizers, which include trace elements: zinc, copper, manganese, iodine, iron, molybdenum, boron, and so on. Microfertilizers are used only when there are few trace elements in soils. For example, peat soils contain almost no copper, while molybdenum is absent in sod-podzolic soils.

It is good to process seed with microfertilizers, strictly observing the dosage (indicated on the package). They contribute to the development of the root system of plants, protect them from, increase immunity and productivity. Complex microfertilizers often contain organic matter and growth. Representatives of similar fertilizers: Apion, Terracom-tem, Ecost-1 and others.

As you can see, there are many different top dressings that can significantly enhance and improve the appearance of plants. What mineral fertilizers do you use? Share your secrets

Not all gardeners can boast of the presence of organic raw materials in the form of manure, litter. Not everyone has time to prepare compost and green manure.

People living in a private house, having a large farm in the form of animals and birds, as well as a large land plot, can afford to keep a source of organic fertilizer and at the same time grow vegetables and fruits.

All the rest, who occasionally travel out of town, can use mineral fertilizers - their types allow you to choose mixtures for each type of soil and for crops separately.

Mineral fertilizers are top dressings in the form of salts of inorganic origin. They are also called chemical fertilizers. The source is natural minerals that are mined industrially, as well as substances obtained artificially.

Mineral fertilizers are a good substitute for organics

There are one-component, two-component, three-component and multi-component compositions of mineral fertilizers. This means that the composition includes 1, 2, 3 or more components, the main of which are nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus. Auxiliary - calcium, sulfur, magnesium, boron and other trace elements necessary for plants to grow.

Advantages of mineral mixtures:

• are cheaper;
• easier to get;
• small doses are used;
• can be selected for specific plants and soil types.

The effect of the use of mineral fertilizers is no different from the effect of organic matter, but when using mineral dressings, it is necessary to strictly observe the dosages of the substance, that is, to be guided by the gardener's golden rule: it is better to underfeed a little than to overfeed and destroy the plant.

Types and characteristics of mineral fertilizers

The types can be classified as follows:

• nitrogen containing one component - nitrogen;
• potassium, consisting of potassium salts and microadditives;
• phosphoric are salts of phosphoric acid or natural minerals;
• mixtures having an equal composition of active substances or other proportions.

Video: Distinctive features and methods of applying mineral fertilizers

Most often, types of mineral fertilizers are used that have a complete composition - nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus, since this eliminates the need to calculate how much and what is needed for a specific piece of land. Each type of mineral fertilizer corresponds to the type of soil on which the additives will be most effective.

Potash

Potassium types of fertilizers contain a large amount of potassium salts, other additives may be present in microdoses. Such mono-fertilizers are recommended for all types of soils, but especially for sandy and sandy loam. Potassium salts are mined industrially from natural minerals - carnallite and sylvinite.

There are two varieties - potassium chloride and sulfate. Chloride must be applied to the soil in the fall so that chlorine harmful to plants disappears during the winter. Such a mineral fertilizer is not suitable for spring application. Potassium sulphate is suitable for all plants and can be used at any time of the year.

Phosphoric

The main mineral for fertilizers is phosphorus, isolated from natural phosphorites and apatites. There are many types of phosphorus compounds that are used in complex mixtures:

• superphosphates and double superphosphates - soluble in water;
• precipitate - dissolves in a weak acid solution;
• metaphosphate is an insoluble or sparingly soluble compound;
• tomasshlak - acid is needed for dissolution;
• ammophos and diammophos are substances that are sparingly soluble in water.

Phosphate fertilizers are varied and suitable for all types of soil

Water-soluble substances are suitable for all types of soils and plants. Semi-soluble and sparingly soluble have an advantage on acidic soils - there their action is stronger.

In order for phosphate mineral fertilizers to be well absorbed by plants, the soil must be saturated with potassium and nitrogen.

Nitrogen

Nitrogen types of fertilizers, their classification:

• nitrate forms - calcium or sodium nitrate;
• ammonia form - ammonia water;
• ammonium - sulfate or ammonium chloride;
• ammonium nitrate - ammonium nitrate;
• the amide form is urea.

Nitrogen substances, which also belong to mineral fertilizers, form the basis of plant nutrition, contribute to the set of green mass. Without sufficient nitrogen supply, the leaves are yellowish or pale green. The efficiency of nitrogen increases if the soil is well fertilized with phosphorus and potassium.

Video: How to properly feed plants with nitrogen

Nitrogen is often included in the composition of mineral fertilizers, which are called complex. In such mixtures, the amount of nutrients is maximally balanced.

Complex mixtures

Complex mineral fertilizers are obtained in various ways - by a chemical reaction, by mixing simple components. The concentration of active substances is very high, so the consumption of fertilizers is small. For different types of soil, you can choose the appropriate mixture for the optimal balance of nutrients.

What is a complex mineral fertilizer - these are mixtures that contain 2 or more kinds of salts. Distinguish:

• nitrogen-phosphorus mixtures;
• potassium-nitrogen;
• nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium compounds.

When applying to the soil, you need to know the needs of garden crops. If necessary, you can adjust the mixture yourself, adding those substances that you need more. But with a rich choice of names and compositions of fertilizers for plants, this is not required.

Complex mineral mixtures should be tried to be applied in spring or summer, since active nitrogen loses its qualities during the winter and it will be necessary to re-fertilize the land with nitrogen fertilizer

Two-component

Apply in the spring, as the composition includes nitrogen, which is most effective in plant growth. The need for this type of fertilizer is determined by the type of soil. If the plants are constantly lacking in potassium, it is recommended to feed them with nitrogen-potassium mixtures several times during the growing season. If phosphorus is washed out of the soil, then nitrogen-phosphorus.

The names of complex mineral fertilizers that can be found in gardening stores are: potassium nitrate, ammophos, ammophosphate, nitroammophoska, diammophos, nitrophoska.

Potassium nitrate contains two components - potassium and nitrogen

Some fertilizers that have a low percentage of nitrogen and consist mainly of phosphates can be applied in the fall.

Three-component

Mixtures, which are also called complete mineral fertilizers. All three necessary elements - nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, are in it in equal proportions, or some components are more, some are less. It is necessary to focus on the needs of plants.

Complete mineral fertilizer, which includes all macronutrients, can fertilize absolutely all soils and garden crops. It is possible to combine types of organic and mineral fertilizers in one area, introducing minerals in the fall, organic matter in the spring, while reducing the dosage of minerals by 2-3 times.

Names: azofoska, ammophoska, nitrophoska, diammofoska.

Multicomponent

Multi-component nutrient mixtures consist of the main elements and microfertilizers: calcium, boron, magnesium, zinc, sulfur, copper, iron, molybdenum, manganese and others. On poor soils, such compounds are indispensable - they protect plants from diseases and allow you to get a good harvest every year.

Micro-additives should be considered as additional support on various soil types. For instance:

• zinc - for alkaline soils;
• copper - on swampy soils and peat bogs;
• manganese - for chernozem regions with an alkaline soil reaction;
• boron - on sandy soils;
• molybdenum - for acidic soils.

Multicomponent formulations contain trace elements in addition to the main elements

Knowing the characteristics of the soil in your area, you can optimally select a multi-component mixture and use it throughout the entire period of growth and fruiting of crops.

Trace elements (microfertilizers)

Microfertilizers can be found not only in multicomponent fertilizers. One and two-component substances, complex microfertilizers are on sale.

Trace elements are consumed by plants in small amounts. They are used both for root application and for foliar top dressing - by spraying. In this way, the deficiency of a certain element can be quickly eliminated.

Microfertilizers can be used both for foliar top dressing and added under the root.

What can be found on sale from complex microfertilizers:

• Reacom;
• Master;
• Oracle;
• Sizam.

This type of top dressing is sold in liquid and dry form, which must be diluted with water to the desired concentration, which is described in detail in the instructions.

The effect of mineral fertilizers on the soil

Many gardeners are afraid to use mineral fertilizers because of the popular legend about the dangers of nitrates. Similar stories are told by people who violated the instructions. There is an assertion that poison differs from medicine only in dosage - the same can be said about mineral fertilizers.

There are several rules, subject to which safety for human health is guaranteed.

1. Do not exceed manufacturer's recommended dosages. If there is a need to mix several types of mineral fertilizers, then it is better to take a minimum of both. In case of deficiency, you can always make a weak solution of fertilizer and apply to the leaves.
2. 2 weeks before the removal of the fruits, feeding with mineral mixtures must be stopped.
3. Do not use expired mineral complexes.

Healthy soil without an excess of nitrates is the result of using mineral mixtures strictly according to the instructions.

It is worth knowing that excess dosages have a bad effect on the plant itself - the roots can burn out if fertilizers are applied incorrectly. Moreover, this applies equally to both minerals and organics. You can disrupt the growth and destroy the plant by using top dressing according to the principle: the more, the better.

It is not recommended to use acidic mineral fertilizers without periodic liming. This can adversely affect plants - the number of beneficial bacteria in the soil will decrease, which will lead to a decrease in the humus part.

This happens because the microflora also needs minerals for nutrition, therefore, if their amount is not exceeded, then it will be enough to feed both plants and microorganisms.

Acid mineral dressings are carried out along with liming

In the case of naturally high soil acidity, it is necessary to use organic matter that shifts the pH towards alkalinity. As an option - alternate mineral and organic complexes. For example, wood ash, bone meal, which can also be bought at the store.

Among gardeners, there is often talk about the benefits of mineral fertilizers and the need to use them on a personal plot to improve the growth of horticultural crops. Today, there are several types of similar preparations on the market for garden products, differing in composition and purpose. Incorrect use of products and disregard for the composition of the soil can lead to the opposite effect, so before using them, you should study the basic nuances of the application.

The introduction of any type of fertilizer is aimed at increasing the yield of horticultural crops, improving the quality of their growth and resistance to environmental factors.

It is customary to divide top dressing into two types:

• organic fertilizers - the composition contains a complex of macro- and microelements, fertilizers supply carbon dioxide formed under the influence of microorganisms;
• mineral - preparations with a high concentration of substances necessary for plant nutrition.

Both types of fertilizers are used to improve the nutrition of horticultural crops. Mineral preparations are distinguished by a higher content of elements and a simple composition. They are a convenient means by which you can quickly adjust the composition of the soil, compensate for nutritional deficiencies and thereby increase the yield of the crop.

Types of mineral fertilizers

Mineral fertilizers presented on the market of garden products are divided into complex and simple according to the criterion of the complexity of the chemical composition. The former contains several elements at the same time, the latter are designed to replenish one element. According to the form of release, top dressing can be liquid and dry.

Manufacturers produce top dressings in sealed packaging, without fail indicating the name, chemical formula and concentration of the nutrient. Each product is accompanied by an instruction indicating the nuances of use and the required conditions to ensure personal safety when working with the drug.

What are mineral preparations:

• nitrogen;
• phosphoric;
• potassium;
• complex;
• microfertilizers.

Each of these types is used to achieve specific goals. An error and violation of the norms of introducing into the soil is fraught with plant disease and a decrease in the return of the crop.

Nitrogen

The group of nitrogen-containing fertilizers includes a whole range of top dressings that differ in the concentration of the main active ingredient. Depending on its content, the absorption of nutrients by the soil occurs in different ways. The choice of a particular type depends primarily on the type of soil and its acidity.

Groups of nitrogen agents:

• nitrate;
• ammonia;
• ammonium;
• amide.

Nitrogen supplements are considered dangerous due to their ability to negatively affect plant growth when used in excess, and they are not used for all plant species. Tomatoes, potatoes, apple trees and strawberries are demanding for a sufficient content of the active substance. Nitrogen deficiency leads to inhibition or stop the development of horticultural crops.

The use of urea increases the acidity of the soil, saltpeter has a positive effect on the growth of beet crops, ammonia preparations promote the growth of onions, cucumber varieties, cabbage and various types of salads. The application rates of the drug depend on the type of soil, the chosen method, the type of vegetable and fruit plants.

Phosphoric

As part of the preparations of this group, the main element is phosphoric anhydride. The drug is intended to fill the deficiency of such an element in the soil, improve the nutrition of vegetables, flowers, berries. Phosphate fertilizer classification:

• water soluble;
• insoluble in water;
• sparingly soluble.

The main difference between the means of this group lies in the percentage of the main component and the ability to dissolve in water. For example, ordinary phosphate contains up to 20% anhydride, double - up to 50%. Superphosphate is ideal for vegetable crops, including tomatoes, potatoes, carrots and various varieties of cabbage.

Berry crops and fruit trees respond well to top dressing.

Potash

Potassium sulphate is used indoors and outdoors. The composition of the drug contains 50% of the main substance and there is no chlorine. When it is used to increase the nutritional value of the soil in the fruits, the amount of vitamins and sugar increases, the plants acquire better resistance, and the risk of infection of the crop with various types of rot is reduced. Potassium preparations are loved by plants from the Cruciferous family - turnips, cabbage, radishes.

In fertilizers of this group, in addition to potassium, there is an additional element that determines the purpose of the drug. The following types of potassium-based dressings are found in stores:

• potassium chloride;
• potassium sulfate;
• potassium magnesia;
• kalimag.

Some gardeners use cement dust or ash to make up for potassium deficiency. The latter is considered the best type of top dressing for tomatoes, cucumber crops, carrots, onions and other vegetables.

Complex

Complex fertilizers are divided into two- and three-component. The main components are the elements, the deficiency of which has the greatest impact on the growth of horticultural crops. These include:

• nitrogen;
• phosphorus;
• potassium.

Two-component species include nitrogen phosphate, ammophosphate, ammophos and a number of others. Three-component are nitrophoska, ammofoska, diamofoska. The main difference lies in the ratio of the proportions of nutrients in the preparation.

Complex-mixed

Complex-mixed preparations include nitrophosphates and nitrophases, to which the necessary additional nutrients are added in the form of phosphorus or potassium. The most common N-P-K ratio is 20:16:10. Organo-mineral fertilizers can be applied before sowing, directly into the holes or rows during planting, used as top dressing.

Such fertilizers are used mainly in large farms, if necessary, to cover large planting areas.

Microfertilizers

A feature of microfertilizers is that the nutrients in the composition are contained in a form accessible to horticultural crops. They are available in the form of a powder mass or crystals, they can be complex or single-element. Their use helps to fill the deficiency of those substances that the plant needs.

Microfertilizers for crops are especially important during a certain period of growth. Their advantage is that the gardener does not have to create a cocktail of trace elements, trying to calculate the necessary proportions. The existing varieties of preparations are divided into types in accordance with the predominant element - copper, boron, molybdenum and a number of others.

Today, a large selection of mineral fertilizers is on sale. When choosing, it is necessary to clearly understand the purpose of using the purchased drug, which will achieve the desired result from its use. It is important to buy from trusted sources and give preference to manufacturers with a good reputation and a long history in the fertilizer industry.

When working, it is important to follow the safety rules and not violate the norms prescribed by the manufacturer for top dressing. The following recommendations should be followed:

• take into account, when calculating the amount used, the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe territory, methods of application, size of plantings, type and age of horticultural crops;
• do not violate the regulations regarding the timing of fertilization;
• do not prepare solutions for feeding in advance;
• take into account the expiration date and shelf life of drugs;
• pay attention to the compatibility of mineral fertilizers with each other.

Failure to meet the deadlines for applying fertilizers to the soil is fraught with a lack of proper results. For example, nitrogen-containing fertilizers are recommended to be applied to the soil in early spring so that the elements can begin to act, and in the autumn, precipitation will simply wash them out of the soil. When carrying out work to improve the nutritional value of the soil, never mix ash and nitrogen-containing fertilizers.