1、Effects of different fertilizer applications on nitrogen leaching

We collected soil from different soil depths in an agricultural area and chose four types of N fertilizers (including chemical fertilizers and organic amendments) to explore the effects of different N fertilizers on N leaching losses through the soil profile.

2、Accounting for differences between crops and regions reduces estimates

Here we synthesize 2500 field observations worldwide and show that LFs vary by an order of magnitude across regions and crops, primarily driven by hydroclimatic and edaphic conditions rather than N...

3、Nitrogen in the Environment: Leaching

Applying manure and nitrogen fertilizers when crops are actively growing, and using nitrates for growth and development will reduce the amount of nitrate in the soil system and thus the amount that could potentially be leached.

4、How Nitrogen Loss Happens: Volatilization, Leaching & Denitrification

Understanding the primary loss mechanisms of nitrogen fertilizer —volatilization, leaching, and denitrification—is crucial to improving efficiency, protecting soil health, and maximizing crop yield.

Reduce Nitrogen Leaching

Large amounts of unused nitrogen in the soil, well-drained soil and heavy rainfall are the main causes of leaching. Reducing the amount of fertiliser alone won’t necessarily reduce residual nitrogen, but it could drastically diminish your yield.

Nitrate

In China, the current nitrogen use had led to considerable nitrate-nitrogen (NO 3 -N) losses through leaching. Nitrogen losses through leaching vary across a field due to differences in soil physical properties and N status of soil.

Nitrate N loss by leaching and surface runoff in agricultural land: A

For N fertilizer, water has two conflict functions: increase of fertilizer N recovery and its use efficiency in one hand and rise of N leaching risk on the other.

Environmental Impacts of Nitrogen Use in Agriculture, Nitrate Leaching

Heavy application of N to soil could result in high NO 3 − leaching, low NUE and high risk of water contamination. Dose of applied nitrogen has positive correlation with leaching of NO 3 − away from active root zone (Paramasivam et al. 2002; Jalali 2005).

Understanding Nitrogen Loss: Leaching & Volatilization — And How

Across the globe, agriculture is facing a serious issue: nitrogen loss through leaching and volatilization. These processes not only reduce fertilizer efficiency and crop yields, but also contribute to water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and soil degradation.

Understanding the 3 Types of Nitrogen Loss — and How to Stop Them

Learn more about how to prevent the three types of nitrogen loss — leaching, volatilization and denitrification — with a nitrogen stabilizer from KAS.

Nitrogen fertilizer leaching refers to the process by which nitrogen fertilizers applied to soil enter groundwater, rivers, lakes, or other water bodies due to various factors. This phenomenon leads to significant losses of nitrogen from the soil, adversely affecting crop growth and yield. The following are the primary causes of nitrogen leaching:

1. Unreasonable Irrigation System Design In agricultural production, the design of irrigation systems directly impacts the severity of nitrogen leaching. Poor designs, such as excessively narrow pipelines or steep slopes, accelerate water flow in the soil, increasing the likelihood of nitrogen loss. Additionally, an overly concentrated irrigation layout can result in inadequate water distribution in local areas, exacerbating leaching.

2. Poor Soil Structure Soil structural issues, characterized by high compaction and low porosity, significantly contribute to nitrogen leaching. Such conditions speed up water penetration, worsening leaching. poor soil structure hinders crops’ ability to absorb nitrogen, further aggravating the problem.

3. Improper Irrigation Methods Irrigation techniques influence nitrogen leaching. While sprinkler and drip irrigation improve water efficiency and reduce leaching, surface irrigation often increases leaching risks due to high evaporation rates. The choice of irrigation method should align with soil conditions and crop needs.

4. Unsuitable Soil pH Soil pH extremes disrupt nitrogen stability and uptake. Alkaline soils cause nitrogen to volatilize as ammonia, while acidic soils bind nitrogen to calcium, forming compounds inaccessible to plants. Crop selection and fertilization practices must account for soil pH requirements.

5. Low Soil Organic Matter Content Soils with insufficient organic matter suffer from poor structure, reduced water retention, and weak microbial activity, all of which elevate leaching risks. Enhancing organic matter through compost or green manure is critical to mitigating this issue.

6. Climatic Conditions Temperature, precipitation, and wind intensity influence leaching. High temperatures accelerate evaporation, saturating soils with moisture that promotes leaching. Strong winds increase water movement in soil, while heavy rains directly drive nitrogen into water bodies. Monitoring weather and adjusting practices accordingly is essential.

7. Improper Fertilization Practices Delayed fertilization, excessive application, or incorrect methods (e.g., surface spreading) raise leaching risks. Adherence to scientific guidelines, such as split applications and precise dosing, is necessary to minimize losses.

8. Soil Erosion and Land Development Rainfall-induced erosion washes surface nitrogen into waterways, while land development (e.g., road construction) disrupts soil structure, accelerating water flow and leaching. Protective measures during development and anti-erosion strategies are vital.

Nitrogen leaching is a multifaceted issue requiring integrated solutions. To reduce risks, farmers should optimize irrigation systems, improve soil structure, adopt efficient irrigation methods, balance soil pH, boost organic matter, adapt to climatic conditions, follow proper fertilization protocols, and safeguard soil integrity. Comprehensive management ensures sustainable agriculture and minimizes environmental impacts.