1、Fertilizers and the Environment (Grades 9

Students will recognize that fertile soil is a limited resource, describe the role fertilizer plays in increasing food productivity, distinguish between organic and commercial fertilizers, describe how excess nutrients are harmful to the environment, and identify different sources of nutrient pollution.

2、Chemistry, Fertilizer, and the Environment

When comparing the % content of the desired nutrient from the two fertilizer compounds, students should choose to use the one with the highest percentage of the nutrient, since they will need to use the least amount which is cost efective.

3、The Right Diet for Your Plants – Curriculum Matrix

In this lesson, students will learn how to read a fertilizer label, understand the components of fertilizers, and explore factors for choosing the appropriate fertilizer for a given situation.

4、Compound Fertilizers

These compound fertilisers, or compounds, supply two or three of the major plant foods (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium). Other plant foods, e.g. trace elements, as well as pesticides, can also be added, although this is not commonly done now.

Fertilisers

Use our revision notes to learn about fertilisers for your IGCSE chemistry exam. Find information on NPK fertilisers and how they are made. Learn more.

Most Common Fertilizers Used in Agriculture

Explore the most common fertilizers used in agriculture to boost crop yield, soil health, and sustainable farming practices.

Top 5 Examples of Compound Fertilizers

Discover 5 examples of compound fertilizers like NPK blends to boost plant growth efficiently. Learn about balanced and multi-nutrient options.

Types of Fertilizers Based on Chemical Composition and Their Use in

Here is a list of fertilizers commonly used in agriculture, based on their chemical composition: These fertilizers primarily supply nitrogen (N), which is essential for vegetative growth and leaf development. Urea (46-0-0) – A highly concentrated nitrogen fertilizer.

The Ultimate Guide to Compound Fertilizer

Explore the benefits of compound fertilizers for optimal plant growth, including types, application methods, and their impact on soil and crops.

Top 10 Chemicals Used in Fertilizers

Explore the Top 10 Chemicals in Fertilizers, know their benefits, and applications. Discover how these compounds enhance fertilizer quality and performance.

Common compound fertilizers in middle school education primarily include nitrogen fertilizers (N), phosphorus fertilizers (P), potassium fertilizers (K), and trace element fertilizers. These fertilizers are crucial for plant growth. Below is a detailed introduction to their types, characteristics, and usage methods.

1. Nitrogen Fertilizers

Nitrogen is one of the three essential elements for plant growth, playing a vital role in photosynthesis and protein synthesis. Common nitrogen fertilizers include urea, ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, and ammonium chloride.

• Urea: A nitrogen-rich fertilizer with high absorption efficiency, suitable for various crops. It should be mixed with organic fertilizers during application to reduce ammonia volatilization.
• Ammonium Nitrate: A fast-acting nitrogen fertilizer quickly absorbed by plants, but excessive use may cause "leaf burn."
• Ammonium Sulfate: A medium-nitrogen fertilizer suitable for multiple crops. Apply deeply or in furrows to minimize volatilization.

2. Phosphorus Fertilizers

Phosphorus is critical for root development, fruit maturation, and disease resistance. Common phosphorus fertilizers include superphosphate, triple superphosphate, calcium-magnesium phosphate, and diammonium phosphate.

• Superphosphate: A moderate-phosphorus fertilizer suitable for all soils. Mix with organic fertilizers to enhance effectiveness.
• Triple Superphosphate: A high-phosphorus fertilizer ideal for acidic soils. Apply deeply or in furrows to reduce loss.
• Calcium-Magnesium Phosphate: A composite fertilizer containing calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Suitable for acidic and lime-rich soils.
• Diammonium Phosphate: A high-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer for diverse crops. Apply deeply to minimize volatilization.

3. Potassium Fertilizers

Potassium is essential for metabolic processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, and water regulation. Common potassium fertilizers include potassium chloride, potassium sulfate, and potassium nitrate.

• Potassium Chloride: A high-potassium fertilizer for various crops. Apply deeply or in furrows to reduce loss.
• Potassium Sulfate: A medium-potassium fertilizer suitable for many crops. Apply deeply to minimize volatilization.
• Potassium Nitrate: A high-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer for diverse crops. Apply deeply to avoid nutrient loss.

4. Trace Element Fertilizers

These fertilizers contain micronutrients like iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), boron (B), molybdenum (Mo), and chlorine (Cl). Though required in small amounts, they are vital for growth (e.g., iron promotes chlorophyll formation, copper supports root development). Common examples include:

• Iron(II) Sulfate: Moderate-iron content, suitable for various crops. Apply deeply to reduce loss.
• Manganese Sulfate: Medium-manganese content for diverse crops. Apply in furrows.
• Zinc Sulfate: Moderate-zinc content for multiple crops. Deep application recommended.
• Copper Sulfate: Medium-copper content for various crops. Apply carefully to avoid toxicity.
• Borax: Moderate-boron content for diverse crops. Incorporate into soil to prevent loss.
• Molybdenum Sulfate: Moderate-molybdenum content for specific crops. Apply deeply for best results.

Usage Guidelines

• Nitrogen: Apply generously to support rapid crop growth.
• Phosphorus & Potassium: Use moderately to maintain soil nutrient balance.
• Trace Elements: Apply based on crop-specific needs (e.g., boron for flowering plants).
• Combination: Blend fertilizers rationally to avoid over-reliance on single types, which may harm plants or soil health.

Adjust fertilizer types and quantities according to crop requirements and soil conditions to optimize growth outcomes.