AGRICULTURAL AND MARINE SCIENCES PROGRAM

SUBPROGRAM IN AGRONOMIC ENGINEERING

MANUAL
CALCULATION FOR THE APPLICATION OF SIMPLE AND COMPOUND FERTILIZERS

Prof. Dr. Hazael Alfonzo S.

Prof. Dr. Ángel Gómez D. (Agronomist)
Prof. MSc. Yesica Pérez P. (Agronomist)

San Fernando de Apure, September 2019

 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

INTRODUCTION

From the economic point of view of agricultural, livestock or forestry production, without
An adequate availability of nutrients, plants and animals do not produce according to their
genetic potential. Achieving profitable production requires proper management of the
soil fertility, ensuring adequate availability of nutrients for plants.
In this sense, any product added to the soil is considered a fertilizer.
applied to vegetables or their aerial parts, supplied directly or indirectly
substances required by these for their nutrition, stimulate their growth, increase their
productivity or improving the quality of production. So we can say that the
fertilization is the action of supplying nutrients to the soil, through organic fertilizers or
inorganic, in order to increase soil fertility and at the same time the availability of the
nutrients for plants or crops. It is said that the capacity a soil has to
crop development depends on the water and nutrients supplied, in addition to the
general conditions of its state or preparation for the development of the plant's roots.
On the other hand, the low fertility of the soil may be due to a lack of nutrients or to the
presence of toxic substances, which cause nutrients, even being in high
quantities, cannot be utilized by plants. These toxic substances may be
present in very acidic soils or where wastes have been distributed over the land
industrial. It can also be caused by poor drainage, continuous application of
inorganic fertilizers without prior soil analysis, poor structure and/or low depth
from the soil, which causes the roots to have a scarcity of air and water.
However, the plant not only obtains the necessary nutrients from the soil for its
nutrition, they also obtain it from water and air. It is considered that there are 16 elements.
essential chemicals in plant nutrition; which means that if any of
they will become scarce, which can lead to low yields and consequently the profits in
Agriculture. Vegetables obtain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen from water and air;
the other 13 essential elements (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, boron,
copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, zinc, and chlorine are obtained from the soil.
Soil fertilization can be of two types, organic and inorganic; the organic
consists of supplying nutrients to the soil through organic matter, which can be from
plant or animal origin; inorganic fertilization consists of supplying the nutrients by
through the application of chemical products, in such a way that they can be absorbed by

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

the plants, and these, absorb nutrients through the numerous root hairs that
found in the young roots, which are continuously renewed, as they have a life of
a few days. These radical hairs secrete acidic substances that contribute to
to solubilize compounds that are hardly soluble, such as phosphates and carbonates. In this action
of solubilization, CO also intervenes2produced by the respiration of the roots.
The nutrients that plants absorb from the soil come from the parent rock.
(except in the case of N, which comes from the air), which slowly degrade into
soluble compounds. These compounds dissociate in the soil water into positive ions
(cations) and negatives (anions), and in these forms they are assimilated by plants (see table )
Ions can be free in soil solution or they can be adsorbed by the
colloidal particles of it. The anions and a small part of the cations are
contents in the soil solution, while most of the cations are
adsorbed in the colloidal complex (soil). The ions adsorbed by the colloidal particles.
they can be absorbed directly by the roots or, more frequently, pass first to the
solution from the soil, from where they are absorbed by the roots. When an ion moves from the
dissolution to the plant, another ion passes from the complex to the solution, in order to maintain a
adequate concentration of ions.
Generally, the amount of macronutrients that plants need to absorb for
The ability to develop its life cycle is significantly greater than that of micronutrients. From this
Thus, it explains the fact that the absorption of macroelements by the crops can
to represent a significant amount compared to the reserves of those elements
contained in the soil. This demonstrates the need for the addition of fertilizers and nutrients to the
most of the agricultural soils. On the other hand, the extraction of micronutrients from the soil,
they never account for such a high proportion of the total, but in general, they only represent
a small percentage of the total amount existing in soil.
This means that, except for exceptions, there should be no deficiencies regarding the
crop nutrition, and yet this is not the case. It must be taken into account that, due to their
characteristics, microelements have a generally limited mobility derived from
conditioning factors for which they are poorly assimilated by plants. This, combined with the
influence of cultivation techniques and the characteristics of the cultivated species, explain it
appearance of deficiencies in crops on soils with normal microelement content,
It is recommended to conduct soil analyses.

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

Table 1.
Mode of absorption of chemical elements by plants
Mode of absorption by the Chemical expression in the
Element
plant fertilizer
Nitrogen NH+4NO-3 N
Phosphorus H2PO4,- HPO4 -2 P 2O 5
Potassium K+ K2O
Football Ca+2 Calcium Oxide
Magnesium Mg+2 MgO
Sulfur SO-4 S
Iron Fe+2 Iron
Copper Cu+2 Cu
Zinc Zn+2 Zn
Manganese Mn+2 Mn
Boro B4O7,-2H2BO3 - B
Chlorine Cl- Cl
Molybdenum MoO4-2 Mo

Fertilizers
Timely chemical fertilization can provide benefits to crops,
increasing its yield, improving the size, color, and flavor of the product and elevating the
nutritional value of the fruit. But, on the other hand, the effects of chemical fertilizers on the
environments are widely tested and unquestionable, with evidence showing that their use
it carries a high risk of environmental damage, such as water pollution
subterranean and soil on which they are applied (Martínez, 2018). Soil health is
based on a complex balance between macronutrients, micronutrients, and the microbial flora,
and agricultural practices based on the use of chemical fertilizers produce very effects
negatives such as soil degradation and it affects people's health.
This is why understanding and comprehending the effects of chemical fertilizers on
human health and the environment make us aware of the dangers they carry and us
allows to act accordingly to protect human health and that of planet earth. Since
this vision, it is necessary to seek alternatives for the management of these chemical compounds,
such as organic fertilizers, which represent a guarantee of health and
environmental sustainability.

Types of chemical fertilizers

According to the amount of nutrients provided by fertilizers, they are
classified in fertilizers: simple (nitrogenous, phosphatic, and potassic), compound and

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

mixtures. Simple fertilizers consist of containing only one main fertilizer (or
only nitrogen or only phosphorus or only potassium). However, compound fertilizers are
those that contain at least two of the main essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus
and potassium). These compound fertilizers can be classified into complex fertilizers and fertilizers of

mixing or blending. Complex fertilizers are those obtained by

chemical reaction of the raw materials that make it up. Each granule has the same
nutrient proportion. They are the most used in Spain, as they contain quite a bit.
very attractive advantages for farmers. Blending fertilizers are
physical mixtures of different raw materials, without chemical reaction, but also contain the
less than two main nutrients in its composition. Here each granule contains only
a nutrient, although, in each bag it is composed of granules of the three nutrients
main.

Table 2.
Simple and compound fertilizers (complexes and mixtures), some examples
Content (%)
Fertilizer
N P 2O 5 K 2O MgO B
Simple
Urea 46 - - - -
Anhydrous ammonia 82 - - - -
Ammonium nitrate 33.5 - - - -
Ammonium sulfate 20.5 - - - -
Triple superphosphate - 46 - - -
Single superphosphate - 19.5 - - -
Phosphoric acid - 52 - - -
Potassium chloride - - 60 - -
Potassium sulfate 50
Potassium nitrate 13 - 44 - -
Composite formulas
10 - 30–10 10 30 10 - -
15 - 15–15 15 15 15 - -
12 - 24–12 12 24 12 - -
7 - 14 - 30 7 14 30 - -
9 - 30 - 8 - 6 (S) 9 30 8 6 -
18 - 05 - 15 - 6–2 18 5 15 6 2
18 - 05 - 15 - 8 - 1.2 18 5 15 8 1.2
18 - 06 - 18 - 2–6 18 6 18 2 6
The formula of the complex fertilizer or of the mixture indicates the type and amount of the
nutritional elements that it comprises. The order of the elements is nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P)
and potassium (K). Example: the formula 10-30-10 indicates that the chemical mixture contains 10 kg of

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

N, 30 kg of P2O5and 10 kg of K2Apply for every 100 kg of fertilizer.

Sometimes it is necessary to prepare fertilizer mixtures at home, this can
to be carried out using as sources fertilizers that occasionally contain only one or two
macronutrients, for this the concentration of the elements must be taken into account
interest.
Another important factor to take into account is the compatibility between the
fertilizers that are desired to be used, since the preparation of physical mixtures of fertilizers is
a process that consists of combining appropriate materials in the correct proportion for the
desired degree or analysis. This preparation can be done manually or mechanically,
being able to identify each of the fertilizers at a glance by the color and size of the
particles.
To select the components of the mixtures, it is important to consider the
following criteria:
a)Neniurtc
tonet
b) Compatibility of the components, this means that not all fertilizers
mixing with each other remain stable for a long time (they are compatible), some
they react with each other causing losses of nutrients, either through volatilization or
transformation into forms not accessible to the plant.
c) Particle size, it is recommended to mix fertilizers of the same presentation, to
that its application on the ground is more uniform.
Cost per kilogram of nutrient contained in the soil.
e) Absence of elements or toxic compounds to plants in the quantities in which
the mixtures will be used.

Figure 1 shows the compatibility of the most commonly used fertilizers in the country.

Figure 1. Compatibility of fertilizers (Taken from Escalante, L., Linzaga, C. and Escalante, Y. 2006)

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

Different ways to apply fertilizer

The method of applying fertilizers is an essential action of good practices.
agricultural practices. The quantity and regulation of absorption depend on many
factors such as crop variety, planting date, crop rotation, the
soil and weather conditions, available resources, etc. Among the ways to apply
a fertilizer is:

Apply fertilizer broadcast

Scattering of fertilizer applied to the surface of a field.
Mainly used in dense crops not planted in rows. The fertilizer can
to be spread randomly by hand or with a fertilizer distribution equipment trying to achieve
uniformity.

Location in bands or rows

Locate the fertilizer only in selected or designated places. When
The application of fertilizer is localized; the fertilizer is concentrated in specific areas.
from the soil. It can occur during planting, either in bands or in a strip
under the surface of the ground or next to or beneath the seed. This activity can be
to be done manually or through special planting equipment and/or application equipment
of the fertilizer.

Application of fertilizers in cover

In cover spreading, fertilizer is scattered randomly over a standing crop. This type of
application is mainly used in cereal and oilseed crops as in crops of
forages. The application as a cover crop is a normal practice in soils where there is
need for additional nitrogen, potassium or phosphorus.

Inter-row fertilization
A practice that consists of applying the fertilizer between rows, next to the plants.
spaced in rows. The crops where this practice is most common are corn, cotton,
vegetables and sugar cane. Fruit trees and other perennial crops are also
fertilized in this way.

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

Foliar fertilizer application

Foliar application is an effective method for providing micronutrients to plants.
as well as in critical occasions of N or NPK. One must take into account the dosage and
the proper conditions for its application to avoid the risk of leaf burn.

Fertilizer Calculation
The fertilizer calculation is aimed at meeting the nutritional needs of the
plants. Due to their genetic conditions, plants differ in their basic requirements
nutrition. Some require higher intake of potassium, calcium, or micronutrients such as zinc and
Boron. Others require more input of nitrogen, phosphorus, magnesium, and micronutrients such as
iron and molybdenum. There are three alternatives to add fertilizers to the soil:
1. Without considering soil analysis and without taking into account extraction needs
of cultivation. Generally, producers are influenced to use packages
technological products recommended by public and private credit institutions without
Having conducted an analysis, this type of fertilization is applied in a high percentage.
by low-income farmers, without considering the damage (pollution) that it can cause
producing to the soil and water, this practice is inadequate.
2. Consider only the extraction of nutrients by the crops for
hectare and per year, without taking into account the soil analysis, this practice is also
inadequate.
3. Consider the nutrient content in the soil, the extraction of nutrients by
part of the crops per hectare and per year, the efficiency and the selection of
fertilizer that should be applied to compensate for what the crop extracts, this practice
it is the appropriate one.

The following are examples to calculate the amount of fertilizer needed

for the preparation of physical mixtures requested by producers upon recommendation of
specialists in the field (agronomist engineers) for the fertilization of a crop.

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

Problem 1. A mixture of 120 kg of N - 80 kg of P is needed.2O5-00 kg of K2Oh, and it is said

with simple fertilizers such as ammonium sulfate (20.5% N) and superphosphate of calcium
simple as phosphate fertilizer (19.5% P)2O5Calculate: What amount of each of
What fertilizers are needed to prepare the formula per hectare?

Data:
Available products:
Ammonium sulfate (A.S.) 20.5% N
Single superphosphate (S. S.) 19.5% P2O5
Calculate: kg of SA and SS =?

Calculations using simple fertilizers:

Calculations are made using the rule of three and always based on one hectare.

It is necessary to clarify that when we say 20.5% it is

 100 kg of S.A. 20.5 kg of N
because in 100 kg of that fertilizer there are 20.5 kg of
X 120 kg of N P2O5and the remaining 79.5 is material or compound
inert, for this reason in this case it gives: 585.37 kg of
S.A. (P2O5+ inert compound)
100 kg of S.A * 120 kg of N
X= 585.37 kg of active ingredient per hectare
20.5 kg of N

100 kg of S.S. 19.5 kg of P2O5

X 80 kg of P2O5

100 kg of S.S * 80 kg of P2 O5
X= 410.26 kg of S.S. /ha
19.5 kg of P2O5

Problem 2. Continuing with the previous problem, once the quantity is determined by
hectare that should be applied with fertilizer, for the formula 120-80-00, it is desired to know what
amount to apply per plant and per furrow, in a crop that has a distance between plants
of 50 cm and distance between furrows or rows of 75 cm. Taking into account that half of the
Nitrogenous fertilizer will be applied in the first fertilization, along with phosphorus and the other.
Half of the nitrogen fertilizer will be applied in the second fertilization or re-fertilization.

Data:
Ammonium sulfate: 585.37 kg/ha. 1 ha = 10,000,000,000mm²
Single superphosphate 410.26 kg/ha. 1 ha = 100,000,000cm²
Distance between plants 50 cm 1 ha = 10,000m²
Distance between furrows = 75 cm. 1 ha = 0.01square kilometers

Calculations:

We start by calculating the plants that are in a hectare.

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Area of a plant = 0.5 m * 0.75 m = 0.375 m2the area that a plant occupies

If 1 plant occupies 0.375 m2

X_______ 10,000 m2 1 0,000 m21 plant X= 26.667 plants/ha
0.375 m2

Calculation of the furrows and plants:

Furrows per hectare = 100 m 0.75 m = 133.3 furrows of 100 m in length

Meters per furrow = 100 m 0.50 m = 200 mats/row

The S.A. is 585.37 kg and the half is 292.7 kg
it will be applied as the first subscriber

Fertilization per furrow = kg of fertilizer/ha. = 292.7 kg/ha = 2.2 kg/furrow 1ersubscribed

Number of furrows/ha 133.3 furrows

kg of fertilizer/ha = 410.26 kg/ha = 3.08 kg/furrow

Number of rows/ha 133.3 furrows

Fert. S.A. per plant = kg of fertilizer/ha = 292.7 kg/ha = 10.98 g/planthesubscriber

Numberofplants/ha. 26.667 meters

kg of fertilizer/ha = 410.26 kg/ha = 15.38 g/plant

Numberofplants/ha. 26.667 meters

Problem 3. Now, in the case that we needed the same dose (120 - 80–00),
but we have 150 kg of the formula 18-46-00 in stock, what amount of the
What fertilizers mentioned earlier do we need to have the dosage?

Datos:
There are 150 kg of fertilizer of the complex formula 18-46-00.
Ammonium sulfate (A.S.) 20.5% N per 100 kg of fertilizer
Single superphosphate (S.S.) 19.5% P2O5for every 100 kg of fertilizer

Calculations:

100 kg of the formula 18-46-00 contains 18 kg of N

100 kg of formula 18-46-00 _______ X

X= 150 kg of 18-46-00 * 18 kg of N = 27 kg of N in the 150 kg of formula

100 kg of 18-46-00

100 kg of the formula 18-46-00 contains 46 kg of P. 2O5

150 kg of the formula 18-46-00 _______ X

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X = 150 kg of 18-46-00 * 46 kg ofOP2

5 = 69 kg of P2O5in the 150 kg of formula
100 kg of 18-46-00

If we apply the 150 Kg. of the formula 18-46-00 that is in stock, we would be
applying a dose of 27-69-00, however, we need to apply the dose 120-80-00, for which
So a subtraction is done of (120-80-00) - (27-69-00) = 93-11-00. This is the amount we
missing to meet the requirements, for this, we use as a source of fertilizer the
ammonium sulfate (A.S.) and single superphosphate (S.S) that are in the data
initials.

 100 kg of S.A. 20.5 kg of N
X ____ 93 kg of N. amount that is missing or left to complete

100 kg of S.A * 93 kg of N
X= 453.65 kg per ha
20.5 kg of N

100 kg of S.S. 19.5 kg of P O

2 5

X 11 kg of P O2 5amount that is missing or left to complete

100 kg of S.S * 11 kg of P2O5

X= 56.41 kg of S.S/ha
19.5 kg of P2O5

Therefore, to comply with (120-80-00), the following must be applied:

453.65 kg. Ammonium sulfate

56.41 kg of single superphosphate per hectare and
150.00 kg of complex formula 18-46-00

Problem 4. According to the technical assessment for planting a crop X, a producer is given
they indicated to apply 80 kg of N, 120 kg70of
O5and of KP2
2Oh, and the available fertilizers
triple superphosphate of calcium at 46% P2O5Potassium Chloride at 60% K2O and Nitrate
of ammonium at 33.5% N. Calculate how many kg of each of these are needed, besides the
Number of bags of each product that the producer must purchase to meet the evaluation
technique per hectare.

Data:
Apply 80 kg - 120 kg - 70 kg per hectare.
Availability in stores:
Triple superphosphate (TSP) with 46% P2O5.
Potassium Chloride (KCl) at 60% K2Oh yes
Ammonium nitrate (NA) at 33.5% N
?

Calculations: in this case we can start with any product

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In 100 kg of NA hay 33.5 kg of N

X weighs 80 kg of N a mount needed

X = 80 kg of deN * 100 kg of NA = 238.81 kg of NA

33.5 Kg N

In 100 kg of SFT hay 46 kg of P2O5

X ________ 120 kg of P2O5  amount needed

X = 120 kg of deSFT * 100 kg of O5=

P2 260.87 kg of SFT
46 kg of P2O5

In 100 kg of CP hay 60 kg of K2O

X _________ 70 kg of K2The  amount needed

X = 70 kg of K2O * 100 kg of CP = 116.67 kg of CP

60 kg of deK2O

Therefore, to comply with (80-120-70), the following must be applied:

238.81 kg Ammonium nitrate/ha

260.87 kg of triple super phosphate per hectare and
116.67 kg of potassium chloride/ha
Calculation of the sacks: for this calculation, it should be established that one sack is equal to 50 kg.

238.81 kg of NA/50 kg/bag = 4.78 = 4 bags + 39 kg of NA ≈ 5 bags of NA/ha

260.87 kg of SFT/50 kg/bag = 5.21 = 5 bags + 10.5 kg of SFT ≈ 6 bags of SFT/ha
116.67 kg of CP/50 kg/bag = 2.33 = 2 bags + 16.5 kg of CP ≈ 3 bags of CP/ha

Note: when we have a number of hectares greater than one, we first multiply the amount.
of fertilizer/ha by the number of hectares to be fertilized, in order not to carry over the error of the
decimals in the approximation of the total number of bags.
For example. If they give us the same previous problem, but tell us it is for 20 hectares, it would be like this:

238.81 kg. NA/50 kg/bag = 4.78/ha * 20 ha = 95.6 bags ≈ 96 bags of NA

260.87 kg of SFT/50 kg/bag = 5.21/ha*20 ha = 104.2 bags ≈ 105 bags of SFT
116.67 kg of CP/50 kg/bag = 2.33/ha*20 ha = 46.6 bags ≈ 47 bags of CP

5 bags * 20 ha = 100 bags This would be the result if we first calculate the number of bags and
then we multiply by the hectares, we would be incurring
6 bags * 20 ha = 120 bags
in the mistake of buying and applying more than what is needed
3 bags * 20 hectares = 60 bags Actually, the more the number of hectares, the greater the error.

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

Calculations using compound (complex) fertilizers

For the calculation of complex fertilizers, it is necessary to clarify that when we have a
recommendation of a dose/ha, for example 80 kg of N, 120 kg of P2 O5 and 70, the calculations
they differ depending on the source of the fertilizer. That is, if it comes from a simple source
As in the previous ones, the calculations are done independently, not affecting.
to others. On the contrary, when the components come from a complex formula.
for example 12-24-12, the calculation of one affects the other, because this mixture is the
resulting from a chemical reaction where each of its particles contains the same
composition of each N-P-K compound and although it is not specified, it is expressed in % (12%-
24%-12%. For the purpose of calculations, you should always start with the larger number, since
that this value will affect the other two values in the recommended formula, in this case
by the 24.

Problem 5. Continuing with the previous problem. According to technical evaluation for planting of
For crop X, a producer was instructed to apply 80 kg of N, 120 kg of P2O5, and 70 kg of K.2O,
and the available fertilizers are Triple superphosphate at 46% P2O5Chloride of
Potassium at 60% of K2O and Ammonium nitrate at 33.5% N. But the producer has in
Deposit 175 bags of compound fertilizer 12-24-12, and he wants to plant 20 hectares.
Calculate: how many kg of each of these are needed, in addition to the number of bags of each
product that the producer must buy to meet fertilization per hectare.

Data:
Apply 80 kg -120 kg -70 kg per hectare and the producer has 175 bags of 12-24-12.
20 hectares
Availability in stores:
Triple superphosphate (TSP) at 46% P2O5
Potassium Chloride (KCl) at 60% K2Oh yes
Ammonium nitrate (AN) at 33.5% N
kg of each product =?

Calculations: in this case, unlike the previous one, we start the calculations with the fertilizer.
complex that the producer has available, 175 bags of 12-24-12 and, for the effect of the
calculations should always start with the largest number, as this value will affect the
two other values, in this case for 24.

We have: 175 bags * 50 kg/bag = 8,750 kg of 12-24-12

(80 kg-120 kg-70 kg) * 20 ha = 1600 kg of N, 2400 kg of P2 O5and 1400 of K2O
1600kg of N, 2400kg of P2 O51400Kg of K2The a mount we need for 20 ha

So, if:
In 100 kg of 12-24-12 hey 24 kg of P2O5
8.750 kg of 12-24-12 _________ X

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X=8.750 kg of 12-24-12 * 24 kg of P2O52.100 kg of P2O5 available quantity

100 Kg of 12-24-12

In 100 kg of 12-24-12 hey 12 Kg of N

8.750 kg of 12-24-12 _________ X

X=8.750 kg of 12-24-12 * 12 kg of N = 1.050 kg of N available quantity

100 kg of 12-24-12

In 100 kg of 12-24-12 hay 12 kg of K2O

8.750 kg of 12-24-12 _________ X

X=8.750 kg of 12-24-12 * 12 kg of K2O = 1.050 kg of K2O available quantity

100 kg of 12-24-12
We subtract
1600kg of N O5 K in the year 14002The required amount
1050 2100 1050 available quantity
550 300 350 amount to complete with simple formula

To complete, we need to calculate the difference with simple fertilizers:

In 100 kg of NA hay 33.5 kg of N

X _________ 550 kg of N

X=550 kg of deN * 100 kg of NA= 1.642 kg of NA missing amount

33.5 kg deN

In 100 kg of SFT hay 46 kg of P2O5

X _________ 300 kg of P2O5

X=300 kg of P2O5100 kg of SFT = 652.2 kg of SFT missing amount

46 Kg of P2O5

In 100 Kg of CP hey 60 kg of K2O

X _________ 350 kg of K2O

X=350 kg of K2100 kg of CP = 583.3 kg of SFT missing amount

60kg of K2O
Calculation of the bags that the producer has to buy to complete the fertilizer

1.642 kg of NA / 50 kg/bag = 32.84 = 32 bags + 42 kg of NA ≈ 33 bags of NA

652.2 kg of SFT / 50 kg/bag = 13.04 = 13 bags + 2 kg of SFT ≈ 13 bags of SFT
583.3 kg of CP / 50 kg/bag = 11.67 = 11 bags + 33.5 kg of CP ≈ 12 bags of CP
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Problem 6. How many bags of the different products for 12 hectares should be purchased?
producer to complete the requirements of the formula recommended by the specialist,
100 kg of N2O590 kg of K2Or of the following available products in the
Ammonium nitrate at 33.5% N, Triple superphosphate at 46% P2O5and the
complete formula 7-14-30

Data:
Land: 12 ha
Apply 100-140-90 per hectare
Availability in stores:
Ammonium nitrate (AN) at 33.5% N
Triple superphosphate (TSP) at 46% P2O5
The producer has 175 bags of 7-14-30 Complete Formula
Number of bags of each product = ?

Calculations: as we can see, there is no potassium available in simple formulas, so

we have to obtain everything from the complete formula.
So:
(100 kg-140 kg-90 kg) * 12 ha = 1200 kg of N-1680 kg of P2 O5-1080 K2O

In 100 kg of 7-14-30 hey 30 kg of K2O

X _________1080 kg of K2O

X=1080 kg of K2O*100 kg of 7-14-30 = 3600 kg of 7-14-30 quantity to be acquired

30kg of K2O

In 100 kg of 7-14-30 hey 14 kg of P2O5

3600 kg of 7-14-30 _________ X

X=3600 kg of 7-14-30*14 kg of P 2O5504 kg of DP2O5

100kg of 7-14-30

In 100 kg of 7-14-30 hay 7 kg of N

3600 kg of 7-14-30 _________ X

X=3600 kg of 7-14-30* 7 kg of N= 252 kg of N 

100kg of 7-14-30

We subtract
1,200 kg of N - 1,680 kg of P2O51.080 K2O required quantity
252 504 1.080 amount contributed by 7-14-30
948 1.176 0 quantity to be completed with simple formula

In 100 kg of NA hay 33.5 kg of N

X _________ 948 kg of N

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

X=948 kg of deN *100 kg of NA= 2,829.9 kg of NA missing amount

33.5 kg deN
In 100 kg of SFT hay 46 kg of P2O5
X _________ 1.176 kg of P2O5

X=1.176 kg of P2O5100 kg of SFT = 2,556.5 kg of SFT missing amount

46 kg of P2O5
Calculation of the bags that the producer has to buy to cover the total amount of fertilizer

2,829.9 kg of NA / 50 kg/bag = 56.60 = 56 bags + 30 kg of NA ≈ 57 bags of NA

2,556.5 kg of SFT / 50 kg/bag = 51.13 = 51 bags + 6.5 kg of SFT ≈ 52 bags of SFT
3600 kg of 7-14-30 / 50 kg/bag = 72.00 = 72 bags of 7-14-30

Problem 7. For a plot of land of 157 m x 0.223 km, plus 2.5 ha, the specialist...
recommended the producer for the planting of a crop X, after the soil analysis in both
lots, apply 110 kg of N, 85 kg of P2O5 and 55 of K2Oh, and the available fertilizers are
Triple superphosphate at 46% P2O5Potassium Chloride at 60% K2O and Nitrate of
Ammonium at 33.5% N. But the producer has 27 bags of compound fertilizer in storage.
7-14-30, and 20 bags of urea at 46% N. Calculate: how many kg of each of these are
they need, in addition to the number of bags of each product that the producer must buy for
comply with the fertilization per hectare.

Data:
157 m x 0.223 km, + 2.5 ha
Apply 110 kg - 85 kg - 55 kg per hectare
Availability in stores:
Ammonium nitrate (NA) with 33.5% N, Potassium chloride with 60% K2O y
Triple superphosphate (TSP) with 46% P2O5
The producer has 27 bags of 7-14-30 complete formula and 20 bags of urea at 46% N.
Calculate: kg and number of bags of each product =?

Calculations: we start by calculating the total area of the land

157 m x 0.223 km = 157 m x 223 m = 35.011 m235.011 m210,000 m23.5 ha

= 3.5 ha + 2.5 ha = 6 ha Total application area of the fertilizer

We calculate the amount of fertilizer for the total area

(110 kg - 85 kg - 55 kg) * 6 ha = 660 kg of N - 510 kg of P2 O5 330 K2O

In 100 kg of 7-14-30 hey 30 kg of K2O

X _________330 kg of K2O

X = 330 kg of K2100 kg of 7-14-30 = 1,100 kg of 7-14-30 quantity to acquire

30kg of K2O

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

In 100 kg of 7-14-30 hay 14 kg of P2O5

1.100 kg of 7-14-30 _________ X

X = 1.100 kg of 7-14-30 * 14 kg of P 2O5154 kg of DP2O5

100 kg of 7-14-30

In 100 kg of 7-14-30 hay 7 kg of N

1.100 kg of 7-14-30 _________ X

X= 1.100 kg of 7-14-30 * 7 kg of N= 77 kg of N 
100kg of 7-14-30

We subtract
660 kg of N - 510 kg of P2O5 - 330 of K2O required amount
77 154 330 amount contributed by 7-14-30
583 356 0 amount to be completed with simple formula

But let's remember that the producer has 27 sacks of 7-14-30, of which 22 will be used.
bags (1100 kg/50 kg/bag = 22 bags), the other 5 remaining bags cannot be used because
we would be applying more of the recommended product, therefore the producer has 5 left
bags for planting another crop.

Let's now calculate the bags of urea to be used, if we are missing 583 kg of N, since the 7-14-30
contributed 77 kg

In 100 kg of Urea hay 46 kg of N

X _________ 583 kg of N

X = 583 kg of N * 100 kg of Urea = 1,267.39 kg of Urea  required quantity

46 kg of N

Calculation of the bags of Urea to be used.

1,267.39 kg of Urea / 50kg/bag = 25.35 bags of Urea and has 20 bags, the rest of the N, that is
5.35 bags need to be completed with Ammonium Nitrate (AN) at 33.5% N

5.35 bags * 50 kg = 267.5 kg of missing Urea that we will convert to N

In 100 kg of Urea hay 46 kg of N

267.5 kg of Urea _________ X

X = 46 kg of N * 267.5 kg of Urea = 123.05 kg of N  missing amount

100 kg of Urea

123.05 kg of N, we will complete this amount with ammonium nitrate (AN) at 33.5% N

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

In 100 kg of NA there are 33.5 kg of N

X _________ 123.05 kg of N

X = 123.05 kg of N * 100 kg of NA = 367.31 kg of NA amount to complete formula

33.5 kg of N

O5 with Triple Superphosphate (TSP) at 46%

Calculation of the 356 kg of P2

In 100 kg of SFT there are 46 kg of P2O5

X _________ 356 kg of P2O5 amount that the SFT will contribute

X = 356 kg of P2O5100 kg of SFT = 773.91 kg of SFT amount to complete formula

46 kg of P2O5

So we put all the results obtained and subtract it from the requested formula:

660 kg of N - 510 kg of P2O5 330 K2O required amount

77 154 330 amount contributed by 7-14-30
583 356 0 amount to complete with simple formula
We subtract
459.95 amount contributed by Urea
 123.05 a mount contributed by the NA
356 amount contributed by the SFT
0 0 0 the zero indicates that the formula is covered

Calculation of the number of bags that the producer has to buy in addition to the ones he has for
complete the formula for fertilization.

367.31 kg of NA/50 kg/bag = 7.35 = 7 bags + 17.5 kg of NA ≈ 8 bags of NA

773.91 kg of SFT/50 kg/bag = 15.49 = 15 bags + 24.5 kg of SFT ≈ 16 bags of SFT

Summary.
The producer has in deposit:
27 bags of 7-14-30, of which he will use 20, the rest he keeps.
20 bags of Urea at 46% N, he uses them all.

The producer has to buy:

8 bags of Ammonium Nitrate at 33.5% N
16 bags of SFT at 46% of P2O5

With this quantity of each product, the producer meets the requirements of the formula.
recommended for fertilizing your plot.

Problem 8. How many bags of the different products should the producer buy to
complete the requirements of the formula recommended by the specialist, 120 Kg of N, 80
Kg of P2O5and 65 kg of K2Oh, taking into consideration that he has 68 bags of formula
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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

composed 8-24-12 and there are 9 hectares of cultivation, and the products available in the market are:
Potassium nitrate with 13% N and 44% K2O, Ammonium nitrate at 33.5% N.

Data:
9 ha
Apply 120 kg - 80 kg - 65 kg per hectare
Availability in stores:
Ammonium nitrate (AN) at 33.5% N
Potassium nitrate (NP) with 13% N and 44% K2O
The producer has 68 bags of 8-24-12 Complete formula
Calculate: kg and number of bags of each product = ?

Calculations: in this case, we start by calculating the amount of product we need.

for the totality of the hectares, we can also start calculating in a standard way
for one hectare, but the calculations to obtain the results become more complicated for us
finals.
(120 kg - 80 kg - 65 kg) * 9 ha = 1080 kg of N - 720 kg of P2 O5 585 of K2O
1080kg2The a mount we need O5
for 9 ha
As can be seen, there is no available source of P.2O5in simple fertilizer, therefore
we need to obtain as much as possible from the compound formula 8-24-12, without
affect the other elements of this.

So, we start by calculating the P2O5.

We have: 68 bags of (8-24-12) * 50 kg/bag = 3,400 kg of 8-24-12

In 100 kg of 8-24-12 hey 24 kg of P2O5

3.400kg of 8-24-12 _________ X

X = 3.400 kg of 8-24-12 * 24 kg of P 2O5= 816 kg of P2O5 a vailable quantity

100 Kg of 8-24-12
We can note that the amount of P2O5the 68 sacks weigh 816 kg, exceeding the requirement
of 720 kg, therefore, it is necessary to recalculate to avoid applying excess fertilizer.

In 100 kg of 8-24-12 hay 24 kg of P2O5

X _________ 720 kg of P2O5

X = 720 kg of P2O5*100 Kg of 8-24-12 = 3,000 kg of 8-24-12 r equired amount

24 kg of P2O5
3.000 kg of (8-24-12)/50 kg/bag = 60 bags of (8-24-12) required amount in bags
The requirements of P have been fulfilled.2O5, we calculate the other two elements (N and K)2O)
contents in the 3,000 kg of (8-24-12).

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

Calculation of potassium

In 100 kg of 8-24-12 hay 12 kg of K2O

3.000 kg of 8-24-12 _________ X

X = 3.000 kg of 8-24-12 * 12 kg of K 2O = 360 kg of K2The contributed amount

100 kg of 8-24-12

From the 585 kg of K2The required amount is 360 provided by 8-24-12, and it needs to be completed.
remaining 225 kg with potassium nitrate (NP) at 13% N and 44% K2O

In 100 kg of NP (13-0-44) hey 44 kg of K2O

X __________ 225 kg of K2O

X= 225 kg of K2The * 100 kg of NP (13-0-44) = 511.36 kg of NP (13-0-44)

44 kg of K2O
Number of bags = 511.36 kg / 50 kg/bags = 10.23 ≈ 10 bags + 11.5 kg of NP (13-0-44)

But the NP also has 13% of N and it must be calculated starting from 511.36 kg.

In 100 kg of NP (13-0-44) hay 13 kg of N

511.36 kg of NP (13-0-44) _________ X

X = 511.36 kg of NP (13-0-44) * 13 kg of N = 66.48 kg of N provided by NP

100 kg of NP (13-0-44)

Calculation of N, let us remember that there is N in 8-24-12

In 100 kg of 8-24-12 hay 8 kg of N

3.000 kg of 8-24-12 _________ X

X = 3.000 Kg of 8-24-12 * 8 kg of N = 240 kg of N  contributed by 8-24-12

100 kg of 8-24-12

We subtract
1080 kg of N - 720 kg of P2O5585 K2O amount required for 9 ha
240 720 360 amount contributed by 8-24-12
66.48 0 225 amount contributed NP (13-0-44)
773.52 0 0 missing amount of N

The missing amount should be completed with Ammonium Nitrate (NA) at 33.5% N.

In 100 kg of NA hi 33.5 kg of N
X _________ 773.52 kg of N
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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

X = 773.52 kg of N * 100 kg of NA = 2,309 kg of NA to complete the formula

33.5 kg of N
Number of bags = 2.309 kg/50 kg/bags = 46.18 ≈ 46 bags + 9 kg of NA at 33.5% N

In summary, the producer must apply certain measures to meet the requirements:
60 bags of 8-24-12 that contain 240 kg of N - 720 kg of P2 O5 -360 K2O,
10 bags + 11.5 kg of NP (13-0-44) which contains 66.48 kg of N and 225 kg of K2Oh yes,
46 bags + 9 kg of NA at 33.5% N, which contains 2,309 kg of NA.

Problem 9. How many bags of 7-14-30 (available product) should be applied to obtain
yields of 5,500 Kg/ha of corn, if required according to the crop extraction,
145 Kg of N2O5120 kg of K2Or (without conducting soil analysis) and that
Components of the N-P-K formula would be needed in kg to meet the requirements.

Data:
Apply 145 kg - 79 kg - 120 kg per hectare
Availability in stores: complete formula 7-14-30
Calculate: Number of bags of 7-14-30 to apply/ha and N-P-K components that would be needed in kg.

Calculations: let's start by finding the quantity of each element that is present in the formula.
7-14-30, it always starts with the element with the highest % in this case the 30, in case of
starting with another element would exceed K2Or in kg.

In 100 kg of 7-14-30 hay 30 kg of K2O

X _________ 120 kg of K2Hello required amount/ha

X = 120 kg of K2O * 100 kg of 7-14-30 = 400 kg/ha of formula 7-14-30

30 kg of K2O

Number of bags = 400 kg/50 kg/bags = 8 bags/ha of formula 7-14-30 to apply

Now we calculate the amount of N and P2O5present in 400 kg of 7-14-30

In 100 kg of 7-14-30 hay 7 kg of N

400 kg of 7-14-30 _________ X

X= 400 Kg of 7-14-30 * 7 kg of N= 28 kg of N  contributed by 7-14-30

100 kg of 7-14-30

In 100 kg of 7-14-30 hey 14 kg of P2O5

400 kg of 7-14-30 _________ X

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

X = 400 kg of 7-14-30 * 14 kg of P 2O556 kg of P2O5 provided by 7-14-30

100 kg of 7-14-30

We subtract
145 Kg of N - 79 Kg of P2O5-120 Kg of K2O required amount/ha
28 56 120 amount contributed by 7-14-30
117 23 0 missing amount of N and P2O5
In summary, the producer would still need to fulfill the requirements of the formula.
apply: 117 kg of N and 23 kg of P2O5per hectare

Problem 10. A producer has a plot of land planted with 175,000 plants of a
crop X, at a distance of 30 cm x 800 mm. He wants to know how many bags of each
fertilizer must be purchased according to the technical recommendation, after an analysis
from soil, 55 Kg of N - 98 Kg of P2O5-75 Kg of K2Or per hectare of the following
products available in the market: complete formula 12-24-12, Potassium Chloride at
60% of K2Ammonium nitrate at 33.5% N.

Data:
175,000 plants
Distance: 30 cm x 800 mm = (0.30 m x 0.80 m)
Apply: 55 kg - 98 kg - 75 kg per hectare
Availability: complete formula 12-24-12, CP at 60% of K2O and NA at 33.5% of N.
Calculate: Number of bags

Calculations: let's start by calculating the number of hectares to then determine the amount of each.
element that is present in the formula 12-24-12 and in the simple formulas, necessary for
the amount of hectares.

Area of a plant = 0.30 m * 0.80 m = 0.24 m2the area occupied by a plant

If 1 plant occupies 0.24 m2

175,000 plants_______ X 1 75,000 m20.24 m2 42.000 m24.2 ha
1 plant
So:
(55 kg - 98 kg - 75 kg) * 4.2 ha = 231 kg of N - 411.6 kg of P2O5315 K2O
231Kg of N, 411.6kg of P2 O5y315Kg of K2The a mount we need for 4.2 ha

So, if:
In 100 kg of 12-24-12 hay 24 kg of P2O5
X _________ 411.6 kg of P2O5

X=411.6 kg of P2O5 100 kg of 12-24-12 = 1.715 kg of 12-24-12 necessary amount

24 kg of P2O5

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

Number of bags = 1.715 kg/50 kg/bags = 34.3 = 34 bags + 15 kg of formula 12-24-12 per hectare

Now we calculate the amount of N and K2The present is 1.715 kg of 12-24-12

In 100 kg of 12-24-12 hey 12 kg of N

1.715 kg of 12-24-12 _________ X

X= 1.715 kg of 12-24-12 * 12 kg of N= 212.12 kg of N  provided by 12-24-12

100 kg of 12-24-12

In 100 kg of 12-24-12 hay 12 kg of K2O

1.715 kg of 12-24-12 _________ X In this case, the N and the K2Give
the same
amount because they have the same % (12)

X= 1.715 Kg of 12-24-12 * 12 kg of K 2O = 212.12 kg of K2The contributed by 12-24-12

100 kg of 12-24-12

We subtract
231 kg of N - 411.6 kg of P2O5 - 315 K2O required quantity
212.12 411.6 212.12 amount contributed by 12-24-12
18.88 0 102.88 complete with simple formula

The missing amount of N must be completed with the NA at 33.5% of N.

In 100 kg of NA there are 33.5 kg of N

X _________ 18.88 kg of N

X = 18.88 kg of N * 100 kg of NA = 56.36 kg of NA to complete formula

33.5 kg of N

Number of bags = 56.36 kg / 50 kg/bags = 1.13 = 1 bag + 6.5 kg of NA

The missing amount of K2We must complete it with the NA at 33.5% N

In 100 kg of CP hi 60 kg of K2O
X _________ 102.88 kg of K2O

X = 102.88 kg of N * 100 kg of CP = 171.47 kg of CP to complete formula

60 kg of N

Number of bags = 171.47 kg / 50 kg/bags = 3.43 = 3 bags + 21.5 kg of CP

In summary, the producer has to buy to meet the requirements of the formula.
35 bags of fertilizer (12-24-12), 2 bags of NA, and 4 bags of CP for the 4.2 hectares
Alfonzo, H; Gómez, A. and Pérez, Y. 23
 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

Problems to solve.

Problem A. For a plot of land of 324 m x 0.827 km plus 0.0235 km2, the specialist would
recommended to the producer for planting a crop X, after the soil analysis in
for both plots, apply 95 kg of N, 110 kg of P2O5, and 75 kg of K2Oh, and the fertilizers
available are Triple superphosphate at 46% P2O560% Potassium Chloride
of K2The ammonium nitrate at 33.5% N. But the producer has 141 bags in stock.
of compound fertilizer 7-14-30, and 39 bags of urea at 46% N. Calculate: how many kg
For each of these, in addition to the number of bags of each product that is necessary...
buy the product to meet the fertilization per hectare.

Result
The producer has in deposit:

140 bags of 8-24-12, of which 140 bags + 26.25 kg of 8-24-12 will be used.
562.10 kg of N and 1,686.30 kg of P2 will be provided O5–843.15 K2O

39 bags of Urea, of which 38 bags + 44.02 kg of urea will contribute
894.25 kg of N
The producer has to buy:

10 bags + 11 kg of Potassium Chloride at 60%, which will provide 306.6 kg of K2O

1,456.35kg of N-1,686.3kg of P2 O5 -1,149.75 K2O required amount

562.10 1,686.3 843.15 amount contributed by 8-24-12
894.25 0 306.6  to complete with a simple formula

With this amount of each product, the producer meets the requirements of the formula.
N-P-K recommended for the fertilization of your plot.

Problem B. A producer has a plot of land planted with 234,000 plants of a

crop X, at a distance of 40 cm x 0.0012 km. He wants to know how many bags of each
fertilizer has to be purchased according to the technical recommendation, after a
soil analysis, 75 Kg of N - 120 Kg of P2O5-90 Kg of K2Per hectare of the
following products available in the market: complete formula 8-24-12, Chloride
Potassium at 60% K2Ammonium nitrate at 33.5% N.

Problem C. According to the technical evaluation for planting a crop X, a producer has
They indicated to apply 85 kg of N, 112 kg of P2O5, and 68 of K.2Oh, and the fertilizers
available are Triple superphosphate at 46% P2O5Potassium Chloride at 60%
of K2The ammonium nitrate at 33.5% N. But the producer has 184 bags in stock.
from compound fertilizer 10-20-10, and he wants to plant 20 hectares. Calculate: how many kg
for each of these, the number of bags of each product is also needed that must
buy the product to meet the fertilization per hectare.

Alfonzo, H; Gómez, A. and Pérez, Y. 24

 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

Problem D. According to the technical evaluation for the planting of a crop X, a producer is
they indicated to apply 90 kg of N, O5135 and 80kg
of K2of
Oh, P2
and the fertilizers
available is Triple superphosphate at 46% P2O5Potassium Chloride at 60%
of K2O and Ammonium nitrate at 33.5% N. Calculate how many kg of each of these is.
they need, in addition to the number of bags of each product that the producer must buy to
comply with the technical evaluation per hectare.

Problem E. A mixture of 120 kg of N-80 kg of P is needed. 2O5-65 kg of K2Oh, and it is said

with simple fertilizers such as ammonium sulfate (20.5% N), superphosphate of calcium
simple as phosphorus fertilizer (19.5% P2O5) y, Potassium Sulfate at 50% K2O.
Calculate: What amount of each of the fertilizers is needed to prepare the
formula per hectare?

Problem F. How many bags of the different products must the producer buy to
complete the requirements of the formula recommended by the specialist of 145 Kg of
N, 115 Kg of P2O5and 85 Kg of K2Oh, taking into consideration that he is 74
bags of compound formula 10-24-12 and there are 12 hectares of crops and the available products
in the market are: Potassium nitrate with 13% N and 44% K2O, Ammonium nitrate to
33.5% of N and simple calcium superphosphate as phosphate fertilizer (19.5% of P)2O5).

Problem G. For a plot of land of 0.0585 km2, the specialist recommended to the producer
for the planting of crop X, after the soil analysis in both plots, apply 85 kg of
N, 120 kg of P2O5 and 95 of K2Oh, and the available fertilizers are Superphosphate of
triple calcium at 46% of P2O5Potassium Chloride at 60% K2O and ammonium nitrate at
33.5% of N. But the producer has 165 sacks of compound fertilizer in stock.
20-20, and 45 bags of urea at 46% N. Calculate: how many kg of each of these are there.
they need, in addition to the number of bags of each product that the producer must buy to
comply with the fertilization per hectare.

Problem H. A producer has a plot of land planted with 468,000 plants of a

crop X, at a distance of 45 cm x 0.0011 km. He wants to know how many bags of each
fertilizer has to be purchased according to the technical recommendation, after a
soil analysis, 90 Kg of N - 140 Kg of P2O5-100 Kg of K2Or per hectare of the
following products available in the market: complete formula 8-20-10, Chloride
60% potassium chloride2O and Ammonium nitrate at 33.5% N.

Problem E. A mixture of 90 kg of N and 110 kg of P is needed.2O5-75 kg of K2Oh, and it is said

with simple fertilizers like ammonium sulfate (20.5% N), calcium superphosphate
simple as phosphate fertilizer (19.5% P2O5) y, Potassium Sulfate at 50% K2O.
Calculate: What amount of each of the fertilizers is needed in bags to prepare
the fertilizer mixture for 17.5 hectares?

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

CONSIDERATIONS

Chemical fertilization benefits crops as it provides essential nutrients.

for the plant that are not available in the soil, thus increasing its yield.
It is advisable to take into account the compatibility between chemical fertilizers that are
go and mix, for not all fertilizers remain stable when mixed
for a long time, some react with each other causing losses of the elements
nutrients, whether through volatilization or transformation into forms that are not accessible to the

plant.
Good results from the fertilizer cannot be expected until the farmer knows that
class use and in what quantity, and how and when to apply it.
Fertilizer usually yields a better reaction when used as part of a
set of improved practices to control the other factors that limit the
yields, in addition to soil fertility.
Compared to organic fertilization, chemical fertilization acts faster,
regarding the availability of nutrients. The soil laboratory establishes the dose
to apply to the cultivation based on the interpretation of the results and the crop to be used.
The formulation of the doses depends on the fertilizing compounds with or without the 3.
N, P components2O5y K2Oh, what is found in the market.
It is necessary to evaluate and assess the comparative advantages that in environmental terms
It offers the use of organic fertilizers in the medium and long term.

Nitrogen (N):
Encourages vegetative growth
Essential element of protein and chlorophyll
Crops with high vegetative (leafy) growth have high requirements for
N.
Legumes can meet their nitrogen requirements on their own through the process.
of nitrogen fixation.
Too much nitrogen can have an adverse effect on crop growth.
It can delay maturation.
It can lower resistance to diseases.
It can increase the tipping problems in cereal crops

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of single and compound fertilizers.

Nitrate N03 (-) is more easily leached than ammonium NH4 (+), since
that is not attracted and held by the negative particles of clay and humus.
(These act as magnets and grab positive nutrients such as K+ and Ca++ and
they do not allow them to be leached.
Tropical and sub-tropical temperatures are always high enough to
promote the rapid conversion of ammonium to nitrate by soil microbes.
Most ammonium-type fertilizers are completely converted to nitrate.
leachable within a week in tropical soils.
Nitrogen losses through leaching increase as the level of increases.
rains and sandy soils. The best way to prevent excessive leaching is the
application of only part of the fertilizer during planting and the rest later in the cycle of
growth when the demand is higher.

Phosphorus (P)
Promotes root growth, flowering, ripening, and formation of
seeds.
Phosphorus deficiencies are widespread: much of the natural P content is
bound or unattainable, only 5-20 percent of the applied P fertilizers will be
available for cultivation because most of them also separate into insoluble compounds.
This fixation of P is a special problem in red soils and tropical soils that
they are low in pH value (high in acidity).
Phosphorus is almost immovable in the soil: Phosphorus is leachable only in very
sandy. Many farmers apply P fertilizers very on top of the soil and very
Little reaches the roots.
The new plants need a high concentration of P in their tissues to promote
the good growth of the roots. This means that P must be applied to the
sowing time. A study showed that corn plants use up to 22 times
the amount of P per unit of height that 11-week-old plants.
The application method is extremely important and determines the amount of P.
added that separates. The applications for recreation (the uniform application of
fertilizer across the field) increases the separation from P and should not be recommended
for the small farmer. The application in a band or strip, a semi-circle, or a

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 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

A hollow near the seed is two to four times more effective than the
recreational activities, especially for low or medium application rates.

Potassium (K)
It promotes the formation of starch and sugar, root growth, resistance.
against diseases, the strength of the stems, and the overall strength of the plant
Corn, sorghum, rice, and other grasses are more efficient in the extraction of K.
Potassium deficiencies are not as widespread as those of N and P. The soils
they have available quantities, but it can only be known for sure by making a
soil analysis
Potassium: Only one or two percent of the total K in the soil is in the form
available, but this is sometimes enough to meet the needs of some
crops. The good news is that the separation of the K fertilizers is not very serious and
The problem presented by P never forms.
The losses due to leaching are generally lower: The available form of K
it has a positive charge. The clay and humus particles carry a negative charge.
they act like magnets and attract the positively charged K to reduce leaching. Without
however, losses from leaching can be a problem in sandy soils or
under heavy rains.
Thick applications of K can cause magnesium deficiencies.

Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), and Sulfur (S) (The Secondary Macro-Nutrients)
Calcium is more important for its role as a calcareous material (to raise the pH value of
soil and lower the acidity) than as food.
Magnesium deficiencies are more common than calcium deficiencies and occur more often.
frequency in sandy and acidic soils (usually less than pH value 5.5) or in
reaction to K's applications.
If there is too much calcium relative to magnesium, it can also cause deficiencies of
Both calcium and magnesium are leached slowly from the soil by rain.

Alfonzo, H; Gómez, A. and Pérez, Y. 28

 Manual: Calculation for the application of simple and compound fertilizers.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Arévalo, G. and Castellano, M. (2009). Manual of Fertilizers and Amendments. Program for the
Sustainable Agriculture in the Slopes of Central America. Degree in Science and
Agricultural Production. Panamerican Agricultural School, El Zamorano, Honduras
Escalante E., L.E.; Carreño R., E. and Linzaga E., C. 1996. Agricultural Orientation.
CSAEGRO. Cocula, Gro.
Figueroa, B. and Morales, F. (1992). Crop Production Manual with Tillage
conservation. Graduate School, Mexico.
Linzaga E., C. and Escalante E., L. E. (1997). Chemical Fertilization. In: Academic Topics
One. Higher Agricultural College of the State of Guerrero. Iguala, Guerrero
Mexico.
The dangers of chemical fertilizers
Invalid input. Please provide text to translate.
Rodríguez T., M. (1983). Fertilizer Manual. Editorial Limusa S. A. Mexico.

Alfonzo, H; Gómez, A. and Pérez, Y. 29