Agronomist notebook: Understanding fertiliser use for the best results
Farmers transport fertiliser in a donkey-drawn cart in Mwea, Kirinyaga County. The optimum timing of fertiliser application is determined by the nutrient uptake pattern of the crop involved. PHOTO | FILE | NATION MEDIA GROUP
For best results, you need to consider the above factors and apply the fertilisers in the right proportions and methods to increase efficiency.
The mineral does not easily leach hence the placement method is the most suitable during application. Also, the use of excess nitrogen creates tall, skinny stems that are too weeks to hold themselves.
For maximum nutrient uptake by the plant, split the fertiliser application. If applying CAN in vegetables, top-dress at week four and consequently at week six.
It’s thus important for farmers to do a soil test to determine the nutrients available in the soil and what the plants require.
The other day in one of the farmer WhatsApp groups I belong to, a member asked the best fertiliser he can apply on his maize and beans for top dressing.
As is the norm in such groups, ordinary members are usually the first to respond. Some advised the farmer to purchase any fertiliser as they all work the same while others suggested animal manure.
