Soil fertilization: how to achieve the best results

Fertilization is an important procedure for agriculture that aims to ensure the balance or replacement of elements necessary for plant development. Therefore, in order for it to be done in the most efficient way possible, it is necessary to consider, in addition to the characteristics of the nutrients and how they behave in the soil, the way in which the products are applied.

Among the points that require attention when planning fertilizer are knowledge of the nutrients, the dosage and period in which they should be applied and, finally, the location and method of carrying out the process. It is worth remembering that research on calibration and response curves and fertilizer tables can be useful for making a good recommendation.

However, preparation is just one part of achieving good results. The other is related to operational processes, which need to be well directed to ensure the successful distribution of nutrients.

Aiming for better use, it is necessary to take into account some factors such as granulometry, which is a way of classifying products according to different granule size ranges. The particle size profile impacts the launching application because the denser particles have greater reach than the less dense ones, which are deposited close to the launching equipment.

Studies, such as that by Yule (2011), show that thinner materials tend to be concentrated in the middle of the application range, while those with larger millimeters are distributed in a more balanced way. Although the rule is not universal, it presents an aspect worth observing when choosing which fertilizer to use.

Mosaic Fertilizers' performance products, such as MicroEssentials, Aspire and K-Mag, rely on technology that allows high concentrations of nutrients to be brought together in a single granule. Furthermore, the granulometry of these products allows for easy and uniform application, providing greater reach during distribution, well-nourished crops and, consequently, better profitability. Helping the world produce the food it needs is a mission that will only be accomplished with productive crops and increasingly innovative solutions.

By Márcio Tortorelli, regional sales director (North) at Mosaic Fertilizers