An Introduction to the Characteristics, Types and Correct Application Methods of Inorganic Fertilizers

Inorganic fertilizers are a category of fertilizer as opposed to organic fertilizers, usually synthesized by chemical methods or made by processing natural minerals, and are therefore also often called chemical fertilizers. Common inorganic fertilizers mainly include the three major categories of nitrogen fertilizer, phosphorus fertilizer and potassium fertilizer, as well as medium-element fertilizers such as calcium, magnesium and sulfur, and micro-element fertilizers such as iron, zinc and boron.

The outstanding characteristics of inorganic fertilizers are their high nutrient content and quick fertilizer effect. After being applied to the soil, most of the nutrients in them can dissolve relatively quickly and be directly absorbed and used by crop roots, so when crops show symptoms of nutrient deficiency, applying inorganic fertilizer as a top dressing can often improve their growth relatively quickly. However, their nutrient composition is relatively simple, and long-term use alone tends to cause soil compaction, so they should be applied in combination with organic fertilizers.

When using inorganic fertilizers, suitable varieties and amounts should be selected according to the crop type and growth stage, and generally a method of small amounts applied frequently is adopted to avoid applying too much at one time and causing root burn or seedling burn. Nitrogen fertilizer is mostly used as a top dressing and can promote the growth of branches and leaves; phosphorus fertilizer and potassium fertilizer are often used during the flowering and fruiting stage, helping flower bud differentiation and fruit development. When used as a base fertilizer, it can be applied deeply together with turning the soil, and after top dressing, appropriate watering is beneficial for nutrient absorption.

In home flower growing and balcony vegetable growing, inorganic fertilizers often appear in forms such as compound fertilizer and water-soluble fertilizer, which are convenient to use and have obvious effects. In daily application, attention should be paid to applying thin fertilizer frequently, as too high a concentration can easily burn the roots. When storing, it should be placed in a cool and dry place to avoid dampness and caking, which affect the use effect.