1、Comparative Efficacy of Foliar Plus Soil Application of Urea versus

The experiment was conducted at the research field, Department of Agronomy, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur from December 2017 to May 2018 to find out the best treatment of foliar application of urea on the growth ...

2、Which is Better for Corn: Foliar Fertilizer or Urea?

Both foliar fertilizers and urea have distinct pros and cons. The choice depends on corn’s growth stage, soil conditions, and market demands to achieve optimal results.

3、Substitution of soil urea fertilization to foliar nano urea

Several studies have reported that nano-urea improves productivity by promoting N metabolism, photosynthetic activity, and protein synthesis (Iqbal 2019). The use of nanofertilizers is anticipated to improve crop production by up to 30% compared to traditional chemical fertilizers (Kah et al. 2018).

4、Which is Better: Rice Foliar Fertilizer or Urea?

A two-year field study evaluated the impact of two foliar sprays of IFFCO nano-urea (4 ml/l) in combination with 0% and 50% recommended doses of N-fertilizer (RDN) on the performance of rice and wheat grown in rotation.

Research progress in uptake and metabolism of foliar urea in plants

The effectiveness of foliar application and the efficient assimilation of urea by leaves are influenced by various factors, including foliar structure, environmental conditions, and carbon-nitrogen metabolism.

Foliar Application of Urea and Amino Acids Regulates Growth

This research aimed to evaluate the effects of urea (0, 1, and 2 g L −1) and an amino acid-based biostimulant (AAB) (0, 4, and 8 mg L −1), applied foliarly, on the growth, photosynthesis, pigments, antioxidant activity, and essential oil production of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.).

Comparative Efficacy of Foliar Plus Soil Application of Urea versus

Among them, the foliar application of urea introduces a new dimension to the nitrogenous fertilization regime.

Foliar application of nano Urea enhances vegetative growth of

We compared the efficacy of the Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative (IFFCO) liquid nano urea formulation (NUF) and conventional urea on the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. NUF and equimolar bulk urea were applied to vermiculite-grown one-month-old plants as 0.4% foliar sprays.

Comparative Efficacy of Foliar Plus Soil Application of Urea versus

These results indicated that N fertilization as direct soil application (70%) and as foliage application (10%), i.e., 80% N fertilization, produced the highest grain yield and major yield...

Urea Fertilizer Comparison

Discover urea fertilizer comparison in 2025. Analyze efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and alternatives to choose the best fertilizer for crops.

Both foliar fertilizer and urea are essential fertilizer types in agricultural production, playing critical roles in plant growth. Foliar fertilizer is applied by spraying directly onto plant leaves, where it is rapidly absorbed by the plant. In contrast, urea is applied to the soil and absorbed by plant roots before being transported within the plant. Below is a detailed comparison of the two to help farmers choose the most suitable fertilizer for their crops.

1. Mechanism of Action

• Foliar Fertilizer: Its mechanism involves spraying nutrient solutions onto leaf surfaces, allowing direct absorption by the plant. These fertilizers typically contain multiple nutrients (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) to meet plants’ needs at different growth stages, enhancing nutritional levels and promoting healthy development.
• Urea: As a nitrogen-based fertilizer, urea is applied to the soil and absorbed via roots. It increases soil nitrogen content, supporting plant growth while improving soil structure, water retention, and aeration.

2. Application Methods

• Foliar Fertilizer: Applied using sprayers or specialized equipment. Care must be taken to control concentration and frequency to avoid leaf damage from overapplication.
• Urea: Applied to soil via methods like row planting, hole application, or furrowing. Timing and dosage are critical to prevent root burn or nutrient waste.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

• Foliar Fertilizer: Generally more expensive due to its complex formulation and production process. it provides rapid nutrient replenishment, often boosting growth speed and yield efficiently.
• Urea: Less costly as a single-nutrient nitrogen fertilizer with straightforward production. Its effects are slower but provide sustained nitrogen release over time.

4. Suitable Crops

• Foliar Fertilizer: Effective for a wide range of crops, especially nutrient-demanding ones like rice, wheat, corn, fruits, and vegetables.
• Urea: Suitable for nitrogen-hungry crops such as grains (rice, wheat, corn), cotton, tobacco, and certain vegetables and fruits.

5. Environmental Impact

• Foliar Fertilizer: Reduces chemical usage and soil pollution risks. Targeted spraying minimizes environmental runoff and promotes eco-friendly practices.
• Urea: Excessive use may lead to soil acidification, salinization, or ammonia volatilization, harming soil health and contributing to pollution.

6. Storage and Transportation

• Foliar Fertilizer: Easier to store and transport as liquids or suspensions, with less risk of spoilage. precise dilution and application are required.
• Urea: Granular urea requires moisture-proof storage to prevent caking. Its high volatility necessitates cool, fire-safe conditions to avoid self-ignition risks.

7. Safety Considerations

• Foliar Fertilizer: Requires strict adherence to dosage guidelines to avoid foliage damage. Personal protective equipment (e.g., masks) is recommended to prevent inhaling fine particles.
• Urea: Handling should avoid direct contact with skin or prolonged exposure to its pungent odor. Proper ventilation and gloves are advised during application.

Both foliar fertilizer and urea have distinct advantages and limitations. Farmers should prioritize crop type, nutrient requirements, and growth stage when selecting fertilizers. For quick nutrient supplementation and high-value crops, foliar fertilizer is ideal. For long-term nitrogen supply in nitrogen-demanding crops, urea remains cost-effective. Regardless of choice, proper application methods and dosage control are key to maximizing yields while safeguarding environmental and plant health.