Isobutylidene diurea is a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer: understanding its characteristics and application methods

Isobutylidene diurea is a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer made by the condensation of isobutyraldehyde and urea, abbreviated as IBDU. It usually appears as white crystals or granules and has a relatively high nitrogen content, generally above 30 percent, making it a representative product among long-acting nitrogen fertilizers.

Its nitrogen release depends mainly on slow hydrolysis by soil moisture rather than decomposition by microorganisms, so the speed of its fertilizer effect is noticeably influenced by soil moisture, temperature and granule size. The larger the granule, the slower the release and the longer the fertilizer effect lasts. Nutrient release is steady and long-lasting, and a single application can supply nitrogen for a relatively long time, with relatively small losses from volatilization and leaching, and it is also fairly safe for seedlings.

In practice it is mainly used as a base fertilizer, and it can also be combined with quick-acting nitrogen fertilizers to meet the nitrogen requirements of crops at different stages. It is commonly used for fertilizing lawns, nurseries, fruit trees, vegetables and field crops. When applying it, deep placement with soil cover is advisable, and the soil should be kept adequately moist after application to facilitate hydrolysis and release of nutrients. The specific amount should be adjusted flexibly according to the crop type, soil fertility and other conditions, avoiding a single excessive application.

Note that this type of slow-release nitrogen fertilizer takes effect more slowly than quick-acting nitrogen fertilizers, so when crops urgently need nitrogen it can be supplemented with quick-acting fertilizers. It should be stored in a dry, cool place to prevent moisture damage and caking. Overall, isobutylidene diurea has a long fertilizer effect and a relatively high nitrogen use efficiency, making it a commonly used long-acting product for improving nitrogen fertilizer use efficiency.