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Nitrogen fertilizers, their meaning and application briefly. Nitrogen fertilizers for plants - how to get a high yield. Crops for which nitrogen is especially important

If used correctly, nitrogen fertilizers are of great benefit, allowing you to get excellent yields even on poor soils. It must be understood that if the optimal doses of the introduction of these substances have a positive effect on the development of plants, then their excess causes diseases and environmental pollution.

Nitrogen fertilizers - their meaning and application

The question of why nitrogen fertilizers are needed should definitely be considered by novice gardeners and vegetable growers who want to get good harvests on their plots from season to season. Cultivated plants on sandy and sandy loamy soils suffer the most from the lack of this element, the best situation is observed on rich chernozems. If your plantings do not grow well and bush, the foliage is small, turns mainly light green, then you need to immediately correct the situation by applying nitrogen fertilizers.

What is nitrogen fertilizer?

In agriculture, to enhance soil fertility, liquid ammonia and solid nitrogenous compounds are used, in which the main substance can be in different forms. The role is played by both the state of aggregation and the chemical composition of the feed used. Nitrogen fertilizers include a large list of drugs, divided into several groups.

The main nitrogen fertilizers with a maximum nitrogen content:

Ammonia- ammonium sulfate (nitrogen up to 21%), ammonium chloride (up to 25%), ammonia water (up to 20.5%), anhydrous ammonia (up to 82.3%), ammophos (up to 12%), ammonium sulfide (ammonia up to 10%).
Nitrate- calcium nitrate (up to 15.5%), potassium nitrate (up to 13%), sodium nitrate (up to 16.4%).
Ammonium nitrate- ammonium sulfonate (up to 26.5%), ammonium nitrate (up to 35%), lime-ammonium nitrate (up to 20.5%).
Amide fertilizers- urea (up to 46.2%), calcium cyanamide (up to 21%), urea-formaldehyde (up to 42%), methylene-urea (up to 42%).

The method and timing of the introduction of useful elements, the effect of nitrogen fertilizers on plants, strongly depends on the form in which the main active substance is contained. For example, the amide form is well absorbed by the leaf mass and is suitable for foliar feeding, while the ammonium form must undergo interaction with bacteria in order to become available to the root system. Nitrogen fertilizers in nitrate form are directly absorbed by garden plants, flowers and trees.

When to apply nitrogen fertilizers?

The previously popular technique, when nitrogen fertilizers were applied over the snow cover, is now considered erroneous. In this case, useful components are often washed into the lowlands when the snow melts, in addition, there is a risk of uneven distribution of the active substance over the area. When determining the time and method of feeding, it is necessary to take into account the temperature of the environment and the type of nitrogen fertilizer, the climatic region and the composition of the soil.

When is it allowed to apply nitrogen fertilizer in late autumn:

Ammonium chloride - in order to wash out harmful chlorine with melt water.
Carbamide - can give a positive effect on sandy and sandy soils in warm and dry weather.

Spring and summer fertilizing with nitrogen fertilizers:

Dry types of fertilizers are embedded when planting in the wells, it is effective to spread the substance over the surface manually only in rainy weather.
Embedding fertilizers into the ground with rakes, hoes, a harrow for bark top dressing of perennial plantations.
The use of an aqueous solution for irrigation in the spring and summer.
Foliar top dressing for green mass (carbamide is optimal).

What is the best nitrogen fertilizer?

Beginners often feed incorrectly, not taking into account the chemical composition of the purchased product. As a result, the funds and efforts spent do not bring tangible results, the plants do not receive the necessary nutrition. When looking for the best nitrogen fertilizer, you need to decide on the purpose of its use, the timing and method of application. For example, consider some of the most popular finished products:

- ideal for foliar application, does not burn the foliage, suitable for top dressing in the spring, although the decomposition time will be longer than that of saltpeter.
Saltpeter– can not be used in the fall due to water washout, but is great for the spring-summer period when top dressing and during sowing.
Liquid Nitrogen Compounds- are quickly absorbed, cheaper to purchase, have a long shelf life and are easier to distribute over the site. The disadvantage of this type of fertilizer is the difficulty in transportation and storage, special devices are needed for work.

Nitrogen fertilizers for the garden

For home purposes, a variety of ready-made mineral products or do-it-yourself substances of organic origin are used. All nitrogen fertilizers for plants can be divided into several groups:

Ready nitrogen fertilizers- saltpeter, urea, ammonium sulfate, ammonia water and others.
Complex fertilizers with a large amount of nitrogen- ammophos, nitroammophoska, diammophos, nitrophos and others.
organic fertilizers- peat, fresh litter, green manure, silt and others.

Nitrogen fertilizers for indoor flowers

It is advisable to purchase a nitrogen fertilizer for indoor plants of a complex type, where, in addition to the main substance, there are trace elements, potassium and phosphorus. In the conditions of an apartment, it is more convenient to use special preparations for flowering plants, they are supplied in small bags with powder, tablets, sticks. Liquid formulations come in vials of different sizes. For self-preparation of nitrogen top dressing, you can dilute 1 g of ammonium nitrate, urea or ammonium sulfate in 1 liter of settled clean water.

Natural nitrogen fertilizers

Increasingly, gardeners are trying to use natural nitrogen fertilizer for plants and are turning their eyes to the widespread introduction of organic top dressing. There is a large list of available products that have a high content of substances useful for the growth of ornamental and garden plants:

Compost of industrial and domestic origin - the standard content of the main elements N-P-K often fluctuates within 2: 1: 1, nitrogen - up to 0.7%.
Manure - the content of nitrogen and other substances depends on the origin. For example, in bird manure N-P-K is 3:1:1, and in cattle manure it is 1:0.5:0.5.
Green manure - grass planted in a bed is of high value, often 2-3 times more effective than manure.
Household waste - nitrogen content reaches 1.5%.
Nitrogen content in lake silt is up to 2.5%.
Peat - up to 3.5%.

Do-it-yourself nitrogen fertilizer

Even in those households where there are no cattle or poultry, it is possible to make excellent nitrogen fertilizers at home using compost. To facilitate the process, it is desirable to put the material in special boxes or pits. The fertilizer production recipe is simple:

We prepare a container or pit of a suitable size.
At the bottom we lay a layer of old branches for drainage.
We lay a layer of compost up to 1.5 m thick.
To increase the number of bacteria, you can add earth or humus.
A greater amount of nitrogen is obtained during the processing of flour products, during the decay of fruits, food waste or vegetables.
After 7 days, there is an increase in temperature inside the heap, over time, the percentage of oxygen inside decreases. It is required to shift the compost up to 4 times to enhance the process.
To accelerate maturation, preparations "", "Shine", yeast (1 tablespoon of yeast and 200 g of sugar per 1 liter of water) are used.
The finished compost is dark brown in color and has a loose consistency.

How to replace nitrogen fertilizers at home?

Infusion of nettle and other weeds has good properties. If you keep poultry on the farm, then the question of how to replace nitrogen fertilizers is even easier to solve. Chicken and pigeon droppings are considered the highest value, while duck and geese waste contains fewer nutrients. To obtain a nutritious infusion, it is first poured with water in a ratio of 1: 1, and after a week the resulting liquid is diluted in a ratio of 1:10 before use. When using dry manure, it is necessary to scatter fertilizer in an amount of not more than 0.2 kg / m 2 of the bed.

Are nitrogen fertilizers harmful to humans?

Ammonia and nitrates in unreasonable amounts become poisonous, poisoning the environment, polluting water bodies. The harm of nitrogen fertilizers is felt in many regions, there is a massive death of aquatic organisms, whole dead zones appear near the coastlines of the continents. Working with nitrogenous substances is a potentially dangerous occupation and, if handled carelessly, is fraught with severe poisoning, which requires immediate hospitalization.

Nitrogen in organic fertilizers is contained in a small amount. 0.5-1% nitrogen contains all types of manure. Bird droppings 1-2.5% nitrogen. The highest percentage of nitrogen is found in duck, chicken, and pigeon manure, but it is also the most toxic. The maximum amount of nitrogen contains vermicompost up to 3%.

You can also make natural organic nitrogen fertilizers with your own hands: compost heaps (especially on a peat basis) contain a certain amount of nitrogen (up to 1.5%), compost from household waste also contains up to 1.5% nitrogen. Green mass (lupine, sweet clover, vetch, clover) contain about 0.4-0.7% nitrogen, green foliage contains 1-1.2%, lake silt (1.7-2.5%).

For the "improvement" of compost, it is recommended to use a number of plants that contain substances that inhibit the development of putrefactive processes. These include leaf mustard, a variety of mints, nettles, comfrey (it is rich in soluble potassium), horseradish.

An organic fertilizer with a high nitrogen content can be made from mullein. To do this, put the mullein in the barrel, filling the barrel by one third, fill it with water and let it ferment for 1-2 weeks. Then dilute with water 3-4 times and water the plants. Pre-watering. You can do this. The introduction of any fertilizer acidifies the soil, so it is necessary to make ash, dolomite flour, lime.

But it is not recommended to carry out nitrogen fertilizers with ash at the same time. Because with this combination, nitrogen turns into ammonia and quickly evaporates.

So what is organic nitrogen for plant nutrition?

Natural nitrogen fertilizers and their nitrogen content.

manure - up to 1% (horse - 0.3-0.8%, pork - 0.3-1.0%, mullein - 0.1-0.7%);
biohumus aka vermicompost - up to 3%
humus - up to 1%;
droppings (bird, pigeon, duck) - up to 2.5%;
compost with peat - up to 1.5%;
household waste - up to 1.5%;
green foliage - up to 1.2%;
green mass - up to 0.7%;
lake silt - up to 2.5%.

Organic nitrogen fertilizers inhibit the accumulation of nitrates in the soil, but apply them with caution. The introduction of manure (compost) into the soil is accompanied by the release of nitrogen up to 2 g/kg within 3-4 months. Plants easily absorb it.

Some more statistics, one ton of semi-decomposed fertilizer contains 15 kg of ammonium nitrate, 12.5 kg of potassium chloride and the same amount of superphosphate.

Every year, up to 40 gr. bound nitrogen. In addition, the soil microflora that processes atmospheric nitrogen is able to enrich the soil with nitrogen in an amount of 50 to 100 grams per hundred square meters. Only special nitrogen-fixing plants can provide more bound nitrogen for the soil.

A natural source of organic nitrogen can be nitrogen-fixing plants used as cover crops. Certain plants, such as beans and clover, lupins, alfalfa, and many others, store nitrogen in their root nodules. These nodules release nitrogen into the soil gradually over the life of the plant, and when the plant dies, the remaining nitrogen increases the overall fertility of the soil. Such plants are called green manure and in general.

Weaving of peas or beans planted on your site in a year is able to accumulate 700 grams of nitrogen in the soil. Weaving clover - 130 grams. Lupine - 170 grams, and alfalfa - 280 grams.

Sowing these plants after harvesting and removing plant debris from the site will enrich the soil with nitrogen.

Milk whey as an organic source of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

The most available nitrogen fertilizer for plants is whey. Due to the content of protein in it, which, in the process of watering plants with the addition of whey, enters the soil. And there, under the influence of soil microflora, nitrogen is released, which becomes available to plants. That is, nitrogen fertilization of plants is carried out in this way.

To carry out such feeding, it is necessary to dilute 1 liter of whey in 10 liters of water. And water the plants at the rate of 1 liter of serum diluted 10 times per plant.

If you first add 40 ml of pharmacy ammonia to 1 liter of serum. That ammonia reacts with lactic acid, which results in ammonium lactate.

Using a similar solution on a regular basis, we will not be able to affect the acidity of the soil, which is very good. Since if we would not add ammonia to whey. Then with the frequent use of whey for root feeding of plants, the acidity of the soil would inevitably increase.

In addition, whey itself contains a large amount of minerals. Each 100 grams of whey contains:

78 milligrams of phosphorus;
143 milligrams of potassium;
103 milligrams of calcium.

It also contains magnesium and sodium in small amounts.

comfrey officinalis

Natural nitrogen-containing fertilizers obtained by industrial processing.

Blood meal is an organic product made from dried blood and contains 13 percent total nitrogen. This is a very high percentage of nitrogen in the fertilizer. You can use blood meal as a nitrogen fertilizer by sprinkling it on the surface of the soil and pouring water over the top to help absorb the blood meal. You can also mix blood meal directly with water and use it as a liquid fertilizer.

Blood meal is a particularly good source of nitrogen for fertile soil lovers like lettuce and corn because it acts quickly.
Blood meal can be used as a component of compost or as an accelerator for the decomposition of other organic materials, as it catalyses decomposition processes.

Soy flour is a source of nitrogen nutrition for soil microorganisms. When soy flour is decomposed by soil microflora, then mineralized nitrogen will become available to plants. It can also be used as a compost ingredient along with fishmeal. Which, after mineralization, will become not only a source of nitrogen, but also a number of trace elements.

Nitrogen fertilizers Video:

The key to the health of horticultural and horticultural crops is maintaining a balance of oxygen, carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen. But not every type of soil is saturated with the necessary amount of nitrogen. To solve this problem, nitrogen fertilizers come to the rescue - a substance that contains nitrogen compounds.

The effect of nitrogen on the growth and development of plants

There is a direct relationship between the lush, dark green foliage of a plant and the amount of nitrogen it needs. And that relationship is photosynthesis.. Chlorophyll plays an important role in plant photosynthesis. It is nitrogen that is the main component of the protein, which is involved in the formation of chlorophyll.

The nitrogen reserve is contained in the soil (humus), amounting to about 5%, depending on the climatic zone. The most nutritious soil is the one with the most humus. But even if the soil is very rich and fertile, only 1% of nitrogen will be available to the plant. This is due to the fact that the process of humus decay and the release of mineral salts is very slow. At the same time, in the spring, during the period of active growth and development, horticultural crops are most in need of nitrogen. Its deficiency can lead to a decrease in the growth and development of horticultural crops. In order to prevent this situation and to guarantee the correct growth of plants, it is necessary to provide them with additional fertilizing with nitrogen.

organic fertilizer, which will contain nitrogen, can be obtained independently using a compost pit and plant waste. Plants such as clover and lupine contain 0.4 - 0.7% nitrogen, and green foliage - 1%, bird droppings (chicken, pigeon, duck) and manure.

But before the nitrogen in organic fertilizers is converted into a mineral form that is available for plant nutrition, it will take time. If you need to fertilize faster, then you should use industrial nitrogen fertilizer. The popularity of industrial mineral fertilizers due to their efficiency and ease of use. There are several main groups:

nitrate fertilizers: sodium nitrate, calcium nitrate;
ammonium fertilizers: ammonium chloride, as well as ammonium sulfate;
ammonium nitrate fertilizers: a complex group of nitrogen-containing top dressing, such as ammonium nitrate;
amide fertilizers: urea;
liquid fertilizers: anhydrous ammonia and ammonia water.

Sodium nitrate (sodium nitrate)

Grayish or yellowish powder, easily soluble in water and containing 16% nitrogen. Sodium nitrate is produced by crystallization using natural deposits or synthetic ammonia. sodium nitrate- alkaline fertilizer, so it is more effective to use it on acidic soils.

Do not use on soils rich in sodium. It should be used during planting and fertilizing, it is quickly absorbed by plants. Sodium nitrate is actively used during spring fertilizing of beets, potatoes, fruit and berry, ornamental crops. It is advisable to exclude the use in the fall, as there is a possibility of nitrogen leaching from the soil. During storage, it does not cake.

Calcium nitrate (calcium nitrate)

Available in large pearl-colored granules or in crystalline form. The granular form is more popular, as it does not spray when used. In the nitrate form, it contains 15-17% nitrogen. As part of calcium nitrate- calcium - 19% and nitrogen - 13%. Calcium nitrate, subject to the recommendations and dosages, has a positive effect on productivity and does not have a harmful effect on humans. Despite the fact that saltpeter contains nitrogen, it does not oxidize the soil, so it is used on different types of soil. With regular use - improves the properties of acidic soil.

Calcium, which is part of calcium nitrate, ensures the full absorption of nitrogen, contributing to the development and growth of the culture. Calcium accelerates the germination of seeds and tubers, increases plant immunity and winter hardiness, strengthens cells and the root system.

Ammonium sulfate (ammonium sulphate)

It is produced in a crystalline form of white or gray color, it is easily soluble in water. Contains about 20.5% nitrogen and is suitable for both top dressing and main application. Contains ammonia nitrogen, which is fixed in the soil, so the most suitable soil is light, permeable. Should not be used on neutral and slightly acidic soils, since ammonium sulfate tends to acidify the soil. Optimal for fertilizing heathers, rhododendrons and other inhabitants on acidic soils. During storage, it does not cake.

Ammonium nitrate

It is produced in a white granular form with a nitrogen content of about 35%. It is used both as an auxiliary top dressing and as a main fertilizer. Saltpeter is less effective on very moist soils, as it is non-ballast and can leach into groundwater. Therefore, basically its territory of use- low moisture soil. Ammonium nitrate, with regular use, increases the acidity of the earth, to avoid this, neutralizing agents are used.

Store fertilizer in a dry place, as it tends to absorb moisture and cake. If before use it is found that the saltpeter has formed into large stones, then they need to be broken to evenly distribute the top dressing.

Currently, pure saltpeter is practically not found on sale, it is mainly included in mixtures. The most suitable mixture there will be one where the content of ammonium nitrate does not exceed 60%, while the neutralizing agent is 40%. This ratio of top dressing contains 20% nitrogen in its composition.

Urea (urea)

Concentrated fertilizer with a nitrogen content in the amide form of about 46% and is easily soluble in water. The use of urea for top dressing in the warm season on neutral soils is more effective. Because the nitrogen contained in urea is poorly absorbed by plants, since it needs to be converted into a mineral form, and the transition process depends on the temperature and acidity of the soil.

Fertilizer is used for foliar feeding, due to the gentle effect on the leaves of the plant. It is also used for spring application before planting. It is advisable to use urea in liquid form, it is this method that will allow the fertilizer to be evenly distributed in the soil, in the case of a high nitrogen concentration, burns to the plant are possible.

Liquid ammonia

There are two types of liquid ammonia: in the first, the ammonia content is 20-25%, in the second - 16-20%. Nitrogen content - 82%. During the fertilization process, it requires 8 cm to be embedded in the soil, otherwise it will evaporate. Liquid fertilizers have several advantages:

low cost;
plants absorb liquid fertilizers well;
uniform distribution over the entire cultivated area;
longer duration of exposure.

But many gardeners and gardeners are stopped by such moments as:

transportation and storage (not recommended to store at home);
liquid fertilizers burn the leaves;
the process of fertilizing requires special equipment.

Complex

In the spring, during the period of active growth, the plant needs not only nitrogen, which contributes to the formation of foliage, but also other substances and components that help growth and development. Namely:

phosphorus helps the plant with the ovary, increases the winter hardiness of the crop;
potassium improves immunity, thereby plants are more resistant to various diseases and negative natural phenomena.

Each plant has its own needs.

It is necessary to understand which crops require a high nitrogen content in the soil and which do not. With a nitrogen deficiency, the plant slows down growth, and the foliage turns yellow. Providing the correct dose top dressing, we help the plant develop properly, form healthy foliage, and also accumulate the required amount of protein in the fruits.

But if these fertilizers are used excessively and the needs of the crop are exceeded, then all the forces of the plant will go into the foliage, which will negatively affect flowering, ovary and fruit ripening. Excess nitrogen causes leaf burns. In the future, the death of foliage and then the root system itself.

So, garden and garden crops are divided into four groups, each of which needs its own, certain amount of nitrogen.

First group. This group is characterized by a high need for nitrogen both before planting (sowing) and during the growing season. The recommended dose is at least 25g. ammonium nitrate, taking into account the planting area - 1 sq. m. If you plan to use other types of fertilizer, then their amount should be adjusted, taking into account the nitrogen content. The first group of cultures includes:

fruit trees and shrubs: plum, blackberry, raspberry, cherry, strawberry;
vegetables: pumpkin, pepper, rhubarb, zucchini, eggplant, potatoes, cabbage;
ornamental crops: peony, balsam, rose, dahlia, nasturtium, carnation, lilac, panicled phlox and others.

Second group. Crops in this group require an average nitrogen content. The recommended dosage for good nutrition is 20 gr. ammonium nitrate per 1 sq. m. of landing area. The group includes:

fruit and berry crops: currant, apple tree, gooseberry;
vegetables: beets, tomatoes, cucumbers, garlic, carrots, parsley, corn;
decorative: most annual flowers, delphiniums.

Third group. This group has moderate nitrogen requirements. Recommended 15 gr. ammonium nitrate per 1 sq. m landings. The cultures of the third group include:

fruit trees: pear;
vegetables: radishes, onions, early potatoes;
decorative: bulbous species, saxifrage, daisy, juniper, primrose.

Fourth group. Plants included in the group require a minimum nitrogen content, namely 7-8 gr. saltpeter per 1 sq. m landings. The fourth group of cultures includes:

vegetables: beans, aromatic herbs, peas;
decorative: Japanese azalea, young, rhododendron, heather, purslane, erica, oriental poppy and others.

Basic rules in the application of nitrogen fertilizers

The correct dosage and regular timely application of nitrogen fertilizers favorably affects the development and growth of horticultural and horticultural crops. The required amount of fertilizer is calculated based on the soil, the plant itself and the season. But there are also basic rules for the use of fertilizers:

A plant that consumes the required amount of nitrogen develops well and has healthy dark green foliage. As well as a balanced and regular nitrogen supply contributes to a high quality crop.

It is no secret that even fertile soils cease to produce crops over time, as they become depleted. One of the elements, the lack of which adversely affects the development of plants, is nitrogen. It is an important component of amino acids, which are the basis of protein tissues. Its deficiency leads to slow development of leaves, their yellowing and death. The problem of deficiency of this element is solved by adding organic or mineral nitrogen fertilizers to the fertile soil layer.

Why do plants need nitrogen

The Earth's atmosphere is 70% nitrogen gas, but its content in the soil is quite small. And in the form of dissolved salts, which are able to be absorbed by the plant, the soil contains no more than 1% of nitrogen substances. The mineralization of nitrogen, i.e., its conversion into compounds assimilated by plants, occurs very slowly, therefore, it can accumulate in sufficient quantities only on virgin lands.

Not all plant cells need this microelement for normal life. For example, in the most common substance - fiber - it is completely absent. But it is part of all nucleic acids, amino acids and proteins consisting of them.

Chlorophyll contains nitrogen compounds, and without it, the process of photosynthesis is impossible. It is included in the structure of enzymes, alkaloids and many other substances that the plant synthesizes.

Throughout the life of the plant, nitrogen constantly circulates through it. At first, its highest concentration is observed in young shoots. Gradually, it moves from old leaves to newly emerging young ones. As the flower matures and fruit sets, nitrogen binds to protein compounds and begins to accumulate in them. If the plant does not receive enough nitrogen from the soil, it does not develop fully, its foliage is weak and not green enough.

An excess of nitrogen leads to the fact that it accumulates in all parts of the plant, giving lush green shoots, but at the same time, fruit ripening is greatly delayed.

Fertilizing the soil

Almost all plants respond positively to the introduction of nitrogen-containing fertilizers into the soil. It is most favorably perceived by:

tomatoes;
cucumbers;
potato;
root crops (beets, radishes).

What plants are green manure for growing in the country

Such a fertilizer also has a good effect on fruit bushes, garden strawberries, and grapes. Legumes are less sensitive to nitrogen fertilizers:

peas;
beans.

This is due to the fact that representatives of the legume family are able to capture atmospheric nitrogen and accumulate it in root tubers. In the future, the plant uses it as a protein reserve for the formation and ripening of fruits. It is believed that legumes enrich the soil layer with nitrogen, but this is not so. They only consume less of it from the soil, not depleting it so much.

To understand how much and what kind of nitrogen fertilizers should be applied to the soil, the amount is converted to pure nitrogen by percentage. For fruit trees and shrubs, as well as for potatoes, nitrogen is applied in the amount of 0.6–0.9 kg of nitrogen per 100 sq. m. To feed them, the concentration can be reduced by a factor of three. If top dressing is applied in the form of an aqueous solution, it is done in a proportion of 15-20 grams of nitrogen per bucket (10 liters) of water. Such soil microfertilizer is produced at the rate of 1 liter per 1 square meter.

Types of dressings

Mineral nitrogen-containing fertilizers, depending on the type of compounds included in its composition, can be briefly divided into three types: ammonia, nitrate and amide. There are also complex ammonium nitrate species, for example, ammonium nitrate. The main types of ammonia fertilizers are ammonium salts, sulfates and chlorides. Nitrate fertilizers, in turn, include sodium and calcium nitrate. The main amide type fertilizer is carbamide (urea). All of them differ in the percentage of nitrogen.

The use of succinic acid in tablets for plants

Ammonium sulfate (NH4)2SO4. Effective fertilizer, easily absorbed by the root system of plants. It lingers well in the soil, so it can be applied in the fall. It slightly acidifies the earth, therefore, to neutralize it, it is recommended to use it together with chalk, dolomite flour or lime. Weakly absorbs water, because of this it does not cake during long-term storage. It is especially recommended for making under potatoes.

Ammonium chloride NH4Cl is usually available as a fine yellowish powder. The nitrogen content in it is 25%. It holds well in the soil and is easily absorbed by plants. Only the presence of chlorine in its composition spoils this fertilizer. It is harmful to plants, therefore, ammonium chloride is applied only in autumn, so that chlorine has time to wash out of the soil.

Sodium nitrate NaNO3 contains about 16 % nitrogen. This is an effective fertilizer in the form of transparent, easily soluble crystals. When applied to the soil, it gives an alkaline reaction, therefore it is recommended for use on acidic soils. Due to its high solubility, it cannot be applied in autumn. The introduction of saltpeter in the spring and as a top dressing in the summer avoids leaching by groundwater. It is recommended to apply it before sowing beets and other root crops.

Nitrogen fertilizers significantly increase the yield of vegetable and fruit crops. If the plants are provided with sufficient nitrogen nutrition, then you can count on a good harvest. Nitrogen is an important element that regulates protein synthesis and improves nutrition and absorption of nutrients. With a sufficient amount of nitrogen, plants not only develop organically, but also bear more fruit. Nitrogen can affect the quality and taste of fruits, improve their safety and resistance to various fungal and bacterial pests.

Nitrogen fertilizers are organic and inorganic, liquid and dry. The main substance from which these agrochemicals are made is ammonia. Most often, this type of fertilizer is synthesized in the form of a crystalline powder, but liquid nitrogen-containing chemicals can also be found.

Crystals of nitrogen-containing chemicals dissolve well in water, but are practically not absorbed by the soil, which is why this fertilizer should be applied to the soil in the spring and summer. In autumn, in most cases, the use of nitrogen chemicals is impractical. It is also worth noting the very high ability of crystals to absorb moisture, which obliges to provide special conditions for the storage of this substance.

Inorganic nitrogen fertilizers can be divided into several types, depending on the form of nitrogen contained:

liquid types of agrochemicals;
ammonia type;
in the form of nitrates (salts of nitric acid);
amide type;
combined types.

Fertilizers in liquid form

Anhydrous ammonia. This is the most concentrated substance, which does not contain ballast substances. It has no color, actively reacts to the ambient temperature, therefore it needs special storage conditions. During production, it is sealed in a sealed container, since the liquid is pumped under pressure, which is why it is divided into two forms - liquid and gaseous. Quite aggressive to some types of metals and alloys, it is not recommended to store in zinc and copper vessels. Due to the high concentration of ammonia, the fertilizer is toxic, and precautions must be taken when working with it. Well absorbed by plants.

It can be used as a fertilizer in autumn, but on lands of light granulometric composition, it is characterized by rapid leaching. That is why the agrochemical in such cases is shown to be deeply introduced into the ground in the spring.

Video - Fertilizing the soil with anhydrous ammonia

ammonia water. The fertilizer is sealed in special containers that are under pressure. The substance is not aggressive to metals, contains a volatile formula of free ammonia, which contributes to large losses of nitrogen during application to the soil. It can be used for autumn, spring application or as top dressing. It is introduced together with water into the deep layers of the soil - by 12-15 cm.

Ammonia. The nitrogen content of these liquid chemicals can range from 30 to 50%. Substances are obtained by dissolving various dry granular nitrogen fertilizers in water: ammonium nitrate, urea, etc. These are rather aggressive substances that cause corrosion of ferrous metals and copper alloys.

Ammonia - application to the soil

Ammonia types of dry agrochemicals

It is used as the main fertilizer or as top dressing. The composition of the agrochemical does not contain ballast substances, it is highly soluble in water, and can be used both on dry and waterlogged soils. At high humidity, it is washed out of the upper layers of the soil. To prevent an overdose on a certain piece of land, it needs additional grinding before application, as it tends to cake. It can be used in conjunction with superphosphates, but the mixture must be enriched with neutralizing components (lime, dolomite, chalk). The content of the neutralizer should not exceed 15% of the total mass of fertilizers.

Rarely sold in pure form, most often in the form of a mixture with a neutralizer.

The nitrogen in this type of agrochemical is in the form of a cation that tends to linger in the soil. The fertilizer is well absorbed by plants, as it is not washed out during precipitation and snow melting into the lower layers of the soil. It can be used for making into the ground in the autumn-winter period. It has an acidifying effect on the fertile layer, it is recommended to mix it in half with a neutralizer. It can be used as a main fertilizer or as top dressing. Sold in pure and diluted form with a neutralizer.

Ammonium sulfate - photo

Ammonium chloride. This type of fertilizer is recommended to be used only in the autumn-winter period. It's all about the high content of chlorine in the formula of the agrochemical. Chlorine negatively affects the growth and development of plants. Fertilizer introduced for the winter is split, chlorine falls together with precipitation into the lower layers of the soil.

Nitrate types of dry agrochemicals

This type of agrochemical is used as the main fertilizer. It has an alkaline composition, suitable for various types of soil. It is well acquired by plants, but differs in low fixing in the soil. It helps to reduce the acidity of the soil, so it shows the best result on acidic types of soil.

It is also effective on acidic soils, is well absorbed by plants, and is most suitable for root crops, as it enhances the outflow of carbohydrates from leaves to roots. It is not applied for the winter, as it is quickly washed out of the soil due to low fixability.

Amide type dry agrochemicals

Urea. It has the highest concentration of nitrogen, can be used as a main fertilizer and as top dressing. It is introduced into the soil in spring, as it is characterized by high leaching. When top dressing, it is quickly absorbed by plants: 2 days after application, an increase in nitrogen in protein compounds is observed.

Combined types of dry ammonia fertilizers

In this type of agrochemical, nitrogen is present in the ammonia and nitrate form. Since it has an oxidizing effect on the soil, it is not recommended to apply it in its pure form. It is recommended to dilute with lime, chalk or dolomite.

Video - Pros and cons of nitrogen fertilizers (part one)

The amount of nitrogen in various types of fertilizers and storage conditions

Table

Name	Description
	The nitrogen content fluctuates between 21-21.5%. It is stored for a long time, does not accumulate moisture, and is characterized by low caking.
Ammonia anhydrous	Nitrogen content does not exceed 83%, low caking and hygroscopicity.
Ammonium chloride	The nitrogen content is not more than 26%, it is characterized by moderate caking, weakly absorbs moisture.
Ammonia water	The nitrogen content does not exceed 20%.
Ammonium nitrate crystalline	Nitrogen content - up to 35%. During long-term storage, it is characterized by high hygroscopicity, poor dissipation and strong caking.
Ammonium nitrate granulated	The nitrogen content is not more than 34.5-35%. It strongly absorbs moisture, needs special storage conditions, and is characterized by low caking.
	Nitrogen content - no more than 16%, characterized by low caking, moderate hygroscopicity, good dispersion after storage.
	Nitrogen content -16-17%, quickly absorbs moisture, has a high caking.
Urea crystalline	Nitrogen content - 45-46%, poor dispersion after storage, low hygroscopicity and caking.
Urea granulated	The nitrogen content is not more than 46%. Non-hygroscopic, low caking and good dissipation after storage.

Organic types of nitrogen fertilizers

It is impossible to call this type of fertilizer effective for large areas. The nitrogen content in bird droppings ranges from 1 to 2.5%. It is also worth noting that this type of fertilizer is considered toxic.

Homemade fertilizer also contains small amounts of nitrogen - up to 2%, but the compost itself is quite nutritious and useful mass for the growth of most plants, so its use as a top dressing or planting base is quite popular and common.

What is this fertilizer for?

During growth and development, a plant synthesizes a lot of different proteins that differ in functional purposes, molecular weight and number of amino acids. Those proteins that are produced during different stages of plant growth differ significantly from those substances that make up the organs and cells of already formed shoots and leaves. It is worth noting that any protein synthesis is accompanied by large losses of energy, which is formed during photosynthesis.

It is nitrogen that provokes the process of photosynthesis in plants, which in turn contributes to faster and better protein synthesis. The presence of nitrogenous fertilizers in the soil is especially important during the period when stems and leaves are formed in plants. In the process of development, the plant actively absorbs nitrogen from the soil and accumulates it in its organs. As the plant grows, nitrogen can move from aged organs to newly formed shoots and leaves.

After being applied to the ground, nitrogen fertilizers are processed by almost 70% by various microorganisms that inhabit the soil. Salts and nitrates are also washed out from the upper layers of the soil. After the death of bacteria, plants begin to absorb the necessary nitrogen from the resulting mass. No more than 40-50% of nitrogen from the total applied fertilizer remains on the share of plants.

How to understand that plants lack nitrogen

The lack of nitrogen has a catastrophic effect on the growth and development of any plant crops. First of all, the process of photosynthesis and respiration slows down, which provokes growth retardation and the formation of shoots and leaves. Also, a lack of nitrogen can cause a change in the shape of the leaves, a decrease in the size of the inflorescences, and the lack of fruit formation. If plants feel a nitrogen deficiency, their leaves change color, become pale, in especially difficult cases, chlorosis can be observed.

Most often, nitrogen deficiency is observed on the following types of soils:

sandy;
podzolic;
gray soils;
red soils;
with a high alkali content.

It is also worth knowing that nitrogen starvation can occur in the following cases:

fertilizer in the spring is introduced into the soil too early and microorganisms that promote nitrogen mineralization do not process nitrogen-containing chemicals;
nitrogen starvation can occur on soddy soil;
high rainfall in spring. Excess moisture contributes to the leaching of nitrogen from the upper layers of the soil.

Signs of nitrogen deficiency in vegetable and horticultural crops

Table

Name	Description
	Shoot growth slows down. The color of the leaves becomes pale, the veins on the back of the leaf become red or burgundy. The roots turn brown, deform and quickly die. Inflorescences fall off, if the plant bears fruit, then the tomatoes grow very small, rarely ripen to redness.
	The lower leaves on the shoots turn yellow, the stems lose their rigidity and flexibility, and become brittle. Inflorescences fall off, if ovaries appear, then the fruits are small in size, pointed at the ends.
	The growth of the stems slows down, the leaves become yellowish. The lower tier of leaves may die off, the upper one is distinguished by the small size of the foliage. Most often, nitrogen starvation is observed during the flowering and budding of the crop.
	With a lack of nitrogen, the leaves turn yellow and begin to die off gradually.
	In plants, growth retardation is observed, the bulb does not form. Green arrows begin to turn yellow at the tips.
	The heads do not form, the leaves acquire a reddish tint.
	The root crop acquires a pink color, does not develop. Ground leaves become smaller, eventually turn yellow and fall off.

Nitrogen Overdose

With an overdose of nitrogen, green mass begins to develop strongly in plants, but the reproductive organs completely stop growing. Also, a large amount of nitrogen can burn the root system, because of which the plant will fade very quickly.