Definition

Nitrogen Fertilizer refers to one of the most common categories of

fertilizers produced out of nitrogen (N) chemical combinations.
To be considered as an organic fertilizer, the plant nutrient must
contain 5% minimum of nitrogen.

Comments
Nitrogen is an inert gas representing 78% of the earth
atmosphere.
As inert gas in the form we breath it, nitrogen has no impact on
the environment.
But in combination with urea and ammonium to produce urea and
ammonia nitrate (ammonia) the nitrogen inert gas becomes an
active fertilizer.
The chemical transformation of nitrogen into ammonia was
discovered in two steps by Fritz Haber in 1918 and Carl Bosch in
1931 for which they were rewarded by a Nobel price.
The organic fertilizer is providing the plants with additional
carbon.
This additional carbon activates the microorganisms of the soil to
produce more cells.
But the microbial activity calls for the need of nitrogen to
generate proteins.
This connection between the carbon and the nitrogen through the
microbial activity means that carbon and nitrogen must respect
some ratio for optimal efficiency.
If the fertilizer is rich in nitrogen representing more than twenty
times the carbon, it will operate efficiently in the soils.

On the upper side, if the fertilizer contains too much nitrogen than
needed by the plant to grow, the excess of nitrogen will be tied up
in the microorganisms in the soils to be converted into ammonium
and then rejected at rains falls into the soft water drains.
So the use of nitrogen fertilizer may be very efficient to improve
crops, but they must be used carefully with the right ratio of
carbon over nitrogen in respect with the type of plants to grow
and the nature of the soils

Description of Fertilizer Materials

Many different chemical and physical forms of nitrogen (N)
fertilizers exist. Some of the more common fertilizer nitrogen
sources are given in the table below. The nitrogen in most farmgrade fertilizers is readily available. Some fertilizers, such as turfgrade fertilizers, release nitrogen very slowly. Plants can use
nitrogen in one of two forms: ammonium nitrogen (NH4+) or
nitrate nitrogen (NO3-).

Reference: Table 1.2-11, The Agronomy Guide

Fertilizer

Total
N, %

Available Soluabl
phosphori e
c acid, % potash,
%

Equivale Salt
nt acidity inde

Comments

1.

Pounds of calcium carbonate equivalent per pound of fertilizer material. Positive

numbers indicate that the material increases soil acidity, that is, lowers soil pH.
Negative numbers indicate that the material reduces acidity, that is, raises soil
pH.
2.
Salt index of equal weights of the fertilizer material compared to sodium
nitrate, which equals 100. Useful for comparing the salt effect of different
fertilizer materials.
Anhydrous
ammoniaNH3

82

1.48

47

A highpressure
liquid that
turns into a
gas when
released.

Reference: Table 1.2-11, The Agronomy Guide

Must be
injected 68
inches deep
on friable,
moist soil. N
loss by
volatilization
can occur if
not properly
injected, or if
soil is too wet
or too dry at
application.
UreaNH2-CO-NH2

46

0.84

75

A dry
material in
granular or
prilled form,
urea-N
rapidly
hydrolyzes to
NH4+. Can be
used for
direct
application,
in mixed
fertilizers,
and in liquid
nitrogen. N at
application is
present as
urea-N.
Within 1 day
after
application,
about 66% of
urea-N is
hydrolyzed to
ammonia-N;
all within 1
week. When
not
incorporated,
significant N
loss by
volatilization
can occur
until

Reference: Table 1.2-11, The Agronomy Guide

approximatel
y 0.5 inch of
rain has
fallen. Not
recommende
d for starter
use.
Broadcast
(incorporated
) or
sidedress.
Ammonium nitrate
NH4NO3

3334

0.63

105

A dry
material in
granular or
prilled form,
in which half
of the N is as
nitrate and
half is as
ammonium.
Used for
direct
application
and in the
production of
nitrogen
solutions (see
below).
Broadcast or
sidedress.
Can be left
on surface or
incorporated
into soil.
Ammonium
nitrate is a
good fertilizer
but it can be
very difficult
to get
because it is
used as an
explosive.

Nitrogen solutions
(UAN)
Urea+NH4NO3+Wat
er

2832
(mostl
y 30
in PA)

0.54

74

A mixture of
ammonium
nitrate, urea,
and water.

Reference: Table 1.2-11, The Agronomy Guide

Urea supplies
about half of
the N that
may be
subject to
volatilization
lossread
comments
above for
urea. The
other half of
N is supplied
by
ammonium
nitrateread
comments
above for
ammonium
nitrate. Once
applied,
nitrogen
solution
behaves
exactly like
dry urea and
ammonium
nitrate. To
minimize N
loss,
incorporate
into soil as
soon as
possible after
application.
Use caution
when
spraying, as
leaf burn can
occur. To
minimize
injury, do not
spray on
vegetation.
For
postemergen
ce
application,
use a

Reference: Table 1.2-11, The Agronomy Guide

directed
spray or
dribble
between the
rows.
Ammonium sulfate
(NH4)2SO4

21

1.12

69

A dry
crystalline
material in
which the
nitrogen is all
in the
ammonium
form.
Produced by
two methods
by-product
and
synthetic.
Used for
direct
application
and blended
complete
fertilizers.
Broadcast or
sidedress.
Can be left
on surface or
incorporated
into soil.
Contains
24% sulfur.
Good starter
N source.

Diammonium
phosphate (DAP)
(NH4)2HPO4

18

46

0.74

34

A dry
granular or
crystalline
material.
Common
analysis is
18-46-0.
Used for
direct
application
and in
blended
fertilizers.

Reference: Table 1.2-11, The Agronomy Guide

Starter
fertilizers
containing
DAP should
be used with
caution; be
sure to band
at least 2
inches to the
side and 2
inches below
seed.
Monoammonium
phosphate (MAP)
NH4H2PO4

11

52

0.65

30

A dry
granular
material.
Common
analysis 1152-0. Used
for direct
application
and in
blended
fertilizers.
Makes an
excellent
starter
fertilizer,
either alone
or with a
small amount
of potash.

Ammonium
polyphosphate

10

34

0.53

A liquid
solution (1034-0). The
agronomic
effectiveness
of APP is
similar to
that of MAP.
Sequesters
some
micronutrient
s and
impurities in
fluid
fertilizers,
keeping them

Reference: Table 1.2-11, The Agronomy Guide

in solution.
Triple
superphosphate
Ca(H2PO4)2

46

10

Dry granular
material.
Used for
direct
application
and in
blended
fertilizers.

Muriate of potash 0
KCl

6062

116

Dry granular
material.
Used for
direct
application
and in
blended
fertilizers.

Potassium sulfate 0
K2SO4

50

46

Dry
crystalline
material. A
specialty
fertilizer used
for direct
application
and in
blended
fertilizers.

Potassium nitrate
KNO3

13

45

-0.26

74

Dry
crystalline
material. A
specialty
fertilizer used
for direct
application
and in
blended
fertilizers.

Potassium
hydroxideKOH

70

-0.89

Crystalline
material
usually used
in liquid
fertilizers.
Basic nature
of this
material

Reference: Table 1.2-11, The Agronomy Guide

allows
production of
neutral liquid
fertilizers.
Primarily
used in liquid
starter
fertilizers.
Sulfate of potash
0
magnesia Sul-PoMag or K-Mag

22

Crystalline
material
made from
langbeinite.
Contains
22% sulfur
and 11%
magnesium.

1. Pounds of calcium carbonate equivalent per pound of

fertilizer material. Positive numbers indicate that the
material increases soil acidity, that is, lowers soil pH.
Negative numbers indicate that the material reduces acidity,
that is, raises soil pH.
2. Salt index of equal weights of the fertilizer material
compared to sodium nitrate, which equals 100. Useful for
comparing the salt effect of different fertilizer materials.

Ammonium nitrogen (NH4+) carries a positive charge and is

adsorbed onto soil particles. In this chemical form, leaching of
nitrogen does not occur; however, NH4+ is changed to the NO3form by bacteria. This process occurs rapidly (beginning within 2
to 3 days) as the soil temperature climbs above 50F. Complete
conversion from NH4+ to NO3- occurs within about a month of
application.

Nitrate nitrogen (NO3-) carries a negative charge and is not

adsorbed onto soil particles; it is free to be leached from the soil.
Nitrate nitrogen also can be lost to the atmosphere through
denitrification when soils become water saturated. The nitrogen
fertilizers listed in Tables "Description of fertilizer materials" and
"Nitrogen conversion approximate pounds of materials required
per acre to supply rates of nitrogen recommended per acre"
contain nitrogen in either or both of these forms. Products called
nitrification inhibitors can inhibit the conversion of N from the
nonmobile ammonium form to the very mobile nitrate form. This
can reduce the loss of N. This effect is greatest under the
following conditions: N applied long before crop uptake; N applied
to very coarse-textured soils, especially when significant rain is
expected before crop uptake; and N applied to poorly drained
soils, again especially when significant rain is expected before
crop uptake. Generally, even though the products may work
perfectly, there is less benefit for N applied at planting or at
sidedressing time.

A long-term effect of all ammonium-based nitrogen fertilizers is to

lower soil pH. Anhydrous ammonia, urea, diammonium
phosphate, and nitrogen solutions, when first applied, greatly but
temporarily increase soil pH in the zone of application. Ammonia
is released and can burn germinating seeds or seedling roots in
the area of fertilizer placement. In the eventual conversion of
NH4+ to NO3-, however, an acid residue is formed. The residual
acidity from the common N sources is given in Table: "Description
of fertilizer materials".

Acidity is a particular problem under no-till and minimum-till

conditions, because the nitrogen is concentrated on the soil

surface. An acid roof can form; the pH in the upper 1 to 2 inches

may be 0.5 to 1.0 pH units lower than at deeper depths. This
greatly decreases the efficiency of triazine herbicides and can
negatively impact root growth. Therefore, the upper 2 inches of
soil should be tested for pH regularly. For details on taking this
sample, see the discussion on sampling no-till fields earlier in this
chapter.

If the normal soil sample does not indicate a need for limestone,
check the surface pH. If the surface pH is below 6.2, apply 2,000
pounds of calcium carbonate equivalent per acre. This should be
sufficient to take care of the acidity caused by nitrogen fertilizer.
As a rule of thumb, 6 pounds of limestone are required for each
pound of nitrogen applied as ammonium sulfate, and 3 pounds of
limestone are required for each pound of nitrogen applied as
anhydrous ammonia, urea, ammonium nitrate, or nitrogen
solution. The effect of manure nitrogen on soil pH is very variable.
The ammonium nitrogen in all manure can lower soil pH.
However, some manures, particularly poultry layer manure, may
contain significant calcium carbonate which can actually increase
pH over time.

The nitrogen in urea is completely water-soluble. Upon

application, urea nitrogen changes rapidly to NH4-N. Urea
nitrogen therefore is readily available to plants on application to
the soil. Urea presents another problem, in that when it is surfaceapplied, significant quantities of nitrogen as ammonia may be lost
through volatilization. These losses happen very rapidly, with
most occurring within the first day or two following application
and can account for over one-third of the urea N being lost within
a week after application. Losses are accelerated by warm moist
soils, high pH, and surface organic matter. Losses are higher on

low cation exchange capacity (CEC) or sandy soils than on soils

with a high CEC, a heavy clay content, or a high organic matter
content. Thus, urea or nitrogen solutions (which are
approximately 50 percent urea) should be incorporated into the
soil by mechanical mixing or by water movement. Light tillage or
one-half inch of rain usually is adequate. Non-urea N sources,
such as ammonium nitrate and ammonium sulfate, are not
subject to volatilization under Pennsylvania conditions.

Research also has shown that volatilization losses from nitrogen

solution can be reduced significantly by dribbling the solution in a
band on the surface, rather than spraying it over the entire soil
surface. This can be accomplished by using drop tubes on a
conventional sprayer. Urease inhibitors can also be used to
effectively reduce volatilization from surface application. These
are only effective on urea-containing fertilizers and will only
provide a benefit if the fertilizer is not incorporated immediately
by tillage or rainfall.

Urea and urea-blended fertilizers are not recommended as starter

fertilizers because of possible ammonia toxicity to germinating
seeds, which results in reduced plant stand.

Nitrogen conversion approximate pounds of

materials required per acre to supply rates of
nitrogen recommended per acre.
When the different nitrogen fertilizer materials are applied
properly, they give the same results per unit of nitrogen applied.
For equivalent conversions of the different materials, see Table:

"Nitrogen conversion approximate pounds of materials required

per acre to supply rates of nitrogen recommended per acre".

Reference: Table 1.2-12, The Agronomy Guide.

For a nitrogen
Material to supply rate of
recommendation
Anhydrous Ammonium
of
ammonia
nitrate
(82% N)
(33.5% N)

N per acre (pounds per acre)

Ammonium
sulfate
(21% N)

Liquid
nitrogen
(UAN)(30%
N)

Urea
(46%
N)

30

37

90

143

100

65

40

49

120

190

133

87

50

61

149

238

167

109

60

73

179

286

200

130

70

85

209

333

233

152

80

98

239

381

267

174

90

110

269

429

300

196

100

122

299

476

333

217

110

134

328

524

367

239

120

146

358

571

400

261

130

158

388

619

433

283

140

171

418

667

467

304

160

195

478

762

533

348

180

220

537

857

600

391

200

244

597

952

667

435

220

268

657

1048

733

478

Actual N (lbs/T)

1640

670

420

600

920

Fertilizer Analysis and Composition

Fertilizer: Ammonium Nitrate

Grade: 37-0-0
Analysis / composition: 18.5% N-NO3, 18.5% N-NH4
Formula: NH4NO3

Fertilizer: Ammonium Sulfate

Grade: 21-0-0
Analysis / composition: 21% N-NH4, 73% SO4
Formula: (NH4)2SO4

Fertilizer: Calcium Nitrate

Grade: 15.5-0-0 19
Analysis / composition: 14.4% N-NO3, 1.1% N-NH4, 19% Ca
Formula: 5Ca(NO3)2-NH4NO3*10H2O

Fertilizer: Magnesium Nitrate

Grade: 11-0-0 0-9.6
Analysis / composition: 11% N-NO3, 9.6% Mg
Formula: Mg(NO3)2

Fertilizer: Mono Ammonium Phosphate (MAP)

Grade: 12-61-0
Analysis / composition: 12% N-NH4, 26.5% P (61% P2O5)

Formula: NH4H2PO4

Fertilizer: Potassium Nitrate

Grade: 13-0-46
Analysis / composition: 13% N-NO3, 38% K (46% K2O)
Formula: KNO3

Fertilizer: Urea
Grade: 46-0-0
Analysis / composition: 46% N-NH2
Formula: CO(NH2)2

Agro Nitrogen Payoff Management

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) suggests that

estimated application of nitrogen fertilizer to cropland is a key
parameter to use in approximating cropland emissions of nitrous
oxide, a potent greenhouse gas.

There are no easy solutions to managing the trade-offs associated

with agricultural nitrogen; this is due to
1. The complexity of the nitrogen cycle in general and

2. The mobility and diversity of soil nitrogen compounds in

particular.

The vast majority of nitrogen in soils is in soil organic matter and

hence does not pose an immediate threat to the environment or
humans. This soil organic matter serves as a nitrogen reservoir,
and each year a fraction of this nitrogen is mineralized to
ammonium.

Nitrogen Fertilizers and Soil Reactions

Mineralization

The microbial transformation of organic nitrogen to inorganic

forms is referred to as mineralization. Common organic nitrogen
substances are; soil humus, plant leaf clippings and root tissue,
and sludge and manure based fertilizers. Generally, a complex
and large molecule containing nitrogen is broken down into a
simpler and smaller molecule and then into ammonium.
Sometimes this process is referred to in two parts with the first
part termed aminization and the second part ammonification.

Many different types of organisms can perform these reactions,

some can do both steps while others can only perform one
reaction or the other. Fungi and bacteria carry on most of the
mineralization in soils. Because many different organisms can
mineralize nitrogen in the conditions necessary for mineralization
to occur are not highly specific. Warm, wet conditions, and soil pH
greater than 5.5 enhance mineralization. Good soil aeration
promotes mineralization, so water contents greater than field

capacity tends to reduce the rate of nitrogen mineralization. One

factor that can be altered by the turfgrass manager and greatly
affects how fast nitrogen is released from an organic nitrogen
source is the C: N ratio of the material.

Carbon: Nitrogen ratio

The rapidness of nitrogen mineralization from organic compounds

is a function of the carbon:nitrogen ratio (C:N) of the material. In
substances with low C:N ratio, less than 15:1, the nitrogen
content is relatively high and the microorganisms rapidly release
nitrogen when they decompose the material. On the other hand, if
the C:N ratio of the material is high (greater than 30:1), indicating
a low nitrogen content, then mineralization is slow. In order for
the organisms to break down a high C:N material inorganic
nitrogen is removed from the soil solution. This process is called
immobilization and occurs frequently when high C:N substances
(for example: sawdust, some compost, types of sludge) are added
to soil. If the material has a high enough C:N ratio all of the
inorganic nitrogen can be removed from the soil for a
considerable amount of time. The growth of grass plants will then
be halted. Microorganisms are much more competitive for soil
nitrogen then plants so they consume the inorganic nitrogen first
before the plants.

Fumigation can eliminate mineralization

The microbial populations necessary for mineralization to occur

are essentially eliminated by fumigation for a period of time.
Therefore, organic nitrogen sources will not be made available to

the plant by mineralization to inorganic nitrogen forms. Only

inorganic nitrogen sources will be successful in providing the
grass with nitrogen shortly after fumigation. Mineralization will
eventually take place after some time that is determined by the
thoroughness of the fumigation and the movement of organisms
from adjacent areas into the fumigated areas.

Nitrification

Nitrification refers to the conversion of ammonium to nitrate. This

conversion is a two step reaction performed by two distinct and
specific microorganisms. The first step is the conversion of
ammonium to nitrite by Nitrosomonas and the second step is the
conversion of nitrite to nitrate by Nitrobacter. Luckily this reaction
is tightly coupled so that nitrite in soils rarely accumulates.

Nitrite is highly toxic to plants.

Since only two microorganisms are involved in this reaction the

conditions that alter the reaction rate are relatively narrow and
well understood.

Temperature

Nitrification occurs in soils at temperatures above freezing. The

warmer the temperature the faster the rate of nitrification. For
example: ammonium sulfate was mixed with soil and kept moist
at different temperatures for 24 days. At 40 of, 29% of the
ammonium had been nitrified, at 60 of, 59% was nitrified, and at
80 of, 100% was converted to nitrate. Thus temperature has a
substantial effect on the form of nitrogen available to the
turfgrass plant. Fertilization with an ammonium source in cool
weather may supply substantial amounts of ammonium to the
plant, but at high temperatures most of the nitrogen available to
the plant will be nitrate.

Soil pH

Nitrification occurs in soils at pHs between 5.5 and 10. The

optimum pH is around 7.

Moisture

Moisture contents between field capacity and the wilting point

have little effect on the rate of nitrification. However, nitrification
in soils wetter than field capacity is substantially reduced. In wet
soils oxygen limits nitrification. Maximum nitrification rates occur
in soils when the oxygen percentage is greater than 10% (20% is
the natural concentration in the air).

Nitrification inhibitors

Dicyandiamide (65%N, C2H4N4, sold as DCD) is a nitrification

inhibitor. A nitrification inhibitor is a chemical that prevents the
conversion of ammonium to nitrate. These chemicals affect the
activity of Nitrosomonas so that no nitrite appears in the soil.
There is interest in keeping nitrogen in the ammonium form
because it is less mobile than nitrate and therefore is not readily
leached from the soil. Also, ammonium is thought to have a
desirable physiological effect on plant growth. Dicyandiamide is
mobile in soil. Dicyandiamide can be placed on the soil surface
and watered into the root zone with irrigation. In this manner it
can be incorporated into the soil with minimal disturbance of the
turf. However, because DCD is mobile in soils it can also be
leached from the soil profile by excessive rainfall and/or irrigation.

Dicyandiamide effects on nitrification do not last forever because

it is broken down by microorganisms as well as leached from the
root zone. Generally, inhibition of nitrification lasts only four to six
weeks. High temperatures and moist conditions hasten
breakdown of the DCD.

Dicyandiamide may be included in nitrogen fertilizers at 2 to 10%

of the total nitrogen content. The breakdown of the DCD (65% N)
thus contributes to soil inorganic nitrogen. Therefore, DCD is
considered a slow release form of nitrogen as well as a
nitrification inhibitor.

Dicyandiamide and urea can be co-granulated into a stable urealike fertilizer particle with identical properties to urea. The
material can be applied as a solid to the turf surface and watered
into the root zone with irrigation water. The mobility of urea and

DCD in soil is the same, so the DCD accompanies the urea into
the rootzone and inhibits nitrification of the ammonium released
from the urea. However, once the urea hydrolyzes to the
ammonium form it is no longer mobile, but the DCD remains
mobile. If leaching removes DCD from the rootzone, then
nitrification resumes again. Repeated applications of DCD are
necessary to inhibit nitrification in the rootzone when leaching
conditions exist.

Plant uptake and use of ammonium and nitrate

When evaluated in solution culture, most plants can take up

ammonium and nitrate by the roots equally as well. In soils,
however, the movement of nitrate and ammonium to the root
surface can alter the uptake of the nitrogen forms. Nitrate
primarily arrives to the root surface in the flow of water that is
transpired by the plant. Since none of the nitrate is adsorbed to
soil particles it is abundant in the soil water and the movement of
the nitrate to the root rarely limits its uptake.

Ammonium, however, is attracted to the soil particles so only a

portion of the ammonium is in the soil water at any one time.
Ammonium concentrations at the root surface can limit plant
uptake in certain situations. In soils of high cation exchange
capacity or high fixation capacity (prevalent clay minerals are
vermiculite, mica, and hydrous mica) the amount of ammonium in
solution is insufficient to support optimum nitrogen uptake by the
plant. Under dry conditions soil moisture may also limit the
movement of ammonium to the root and plant uptake may be
hindered. In irrigated turfgrass, especially in sandy soils, the
movement of ammonium to the root surface should not limit plant

uptake. However, in soils with high quantities of ammonium fixing

clays or when dry soil conditions are prevalent, ammonium will be
inferior to nitrate in providing nitrogen to the plant.

Nitrate and ammonium may alter plant growth even under

conditions where total nitrogen supply and movement to the root
does not favor either nitrate or ammonium. Much research has
been conducted examining the physiological effects of ammonium
and nitrate on the growth of grasses. Most of the grasses
examined have been crop plants, corn, sorghum, wheat , but
some studies have been conducted with ryegrass and bentgrass.
Surprisingly the effects of ammonium on plant growth and
development have been fairly consistent across species.
Ammonium grown plants, in comparison to nitrate grown plants,
produce greater dry matter, more tillers, and have more branched
root systems. Generally, maximum increases in these factors are
obtained by providing and maintaining no more than half of the
total nitrogen supply in the ammonium form.

Urea hydrolysis

Urea hydrolysis is the conversion of urea (CO(NH2)2) to

ammonia/ammonium by the enzyme urease. Urease is
everywhere and can function outside of living organisms. This
reaction is important because many of the fertilizer materials

utilized in turfgrass contain substantial amounts of urea as the

nitrogen carrier. Although urea can be taken into the plant by
roots, this mode of nitrogen uptake is not important, as the
amount accumulated is small compared to the uptake of nitrate
and ammonium. However, the foliar adsorption of urea can occur
at a high rate and contribute substantially to plant nitrogen
accumulation.

Urease inhibitors

Several compounds have been isolated that inhibit urea

hydrolysis for a short period of time. Generally, the effects have
been short-lived and erratic. The purpose of the inhibitors has
been to delay hydrolysis and increase the probability that rainfall
could occur and move the urea into the soil where the potential
for ammonia volatilization is significantly lower than on vegetative
or soil surfaces (discussed below). Since irrigation is generally
available and utilized frequently to water fertilizers into the turf,
urease inhibitors are not that useful in turfgrass systems.

Ammonia volatilization

Ammonia volatilization is the loss of nitrogen to the atmosphere

as ammonia gas. Ammonia production and loss is typically
associated with urea hydrolysis in soils. Upon hydrolysis of urea
the pH around the urea particle is increased drastically and the
proportion of nitrogen in the ammonium form is shifted towards
ammonia. Ammonia is then released into the atmosphere and no
longer available to the plant. Ammonia loss may be as great as

60% of the nitrogen applied as urea. Several factors affect the

volatile loss of ammonia.

The capacity of the soil to restrict the increase in soil pH

(buffering capacity) upon urea hydrolysis is important in
decreasing losses of ammonia from urea. Soils that are high in
clay and organic matter have a high buffer capacity. Therefore,
soil pH increases and ammonia volatilization losses are
minimized. Sandy soils generally have low buffer capacity,
therefore, pH increases and ammonia volatilization can be
substantial.

The cation exchange capacity of the soil is correlated with the soil
buffering capacity. Soils with high buffering capacity usually have
a high cation exchange capacity. Ammonium generated by urea
hydrolysis can be absorbed to the cation exchange sites in the soil
and prevent the loss by ammonia volatilization. Leaf and stem
surfaces and thatch have essentially no soil buffering capacity or
cation exchange capacity. When urea hydrolyzes on these
surfaces, soil pH increases are substantial and much of the
nitrogen added as urea may be lost to ammonia volatilization.

Movement of urea into the soil prior to hydrolysis is an effective

way to minimize ammonia volatilization. Incorporation of urea a
couple of inches into the soil eliminates ammonia loss. High
temperatures increase the loss of ammonia. Volatilization losses
are generally minimal below 50 o F.

Leaching

Leaching is the downward movement of nitrogen with water

percolation through the soil profile. How much nitrogen is lost
from the rootzone is dependent on the nitrogen form present, soil
type, the amount of rainfall in relation to evapotranspiration, and
the depth of the rootzone. Most soils do not have much anion
exchange capacity within the turfgrass rootzone. Anion exchange
capacity is the amount of positive charges that develop on the
edges of soil clay and organic matter that attract negatively
charged ions such as nitrate. Since there is little anion exchange
capacity in the soil, nitrate moves with the percolating water.
Often times this movement can be rapid and leads to loss of
nitrate from the rootzone. Cations, such as ammonium, are
retained by the soil's cation exchange capacity. Cation exchange
capacity is the quantity of negative charge that develops on the
faces and edges of soil clay and organic matter. In most soils
there is enough cation exchange capacity to greatly retard the
leaching of ammonium with percolating water. In some cases,
greens mixes constructed of sand may ha6745530528ve limited
cation exchange capacity and some leaching of ammonium can
occur. Ammonium competes with potassium, calcium, and
magnesium for adsorption to the cation exchange sites. Calcium
and magnesium are held more tightly than ammonium and
potassium to the cation exchange sites. Abundance of these other
essential nutrients can limit the adsorption of ammonium and
enhance its leaching.

Urea is a molecule without charge. It is neither attracted to the

cation or anion exchange sites occurring in soil. Urea moves with
the percolating water until it is hydrolyzed to ammonium. This
mobility of urea in soil can be used to the turfgrass managers

advantage by watering the urea into the rootzone, thereby

eliminating volatile losses of ammonia and maximizing nitrogen
supply in moist soil.

Nitrogen fertilizer affects soil pH

Nitrogen fertilizers affect soil pH in two ways. First, the reaction of

the fertilizer, including the hydrolysis reaction of urea and the
nitrification of ammonium, can alter bulk soil pH. Bulk soil is that
soil that is not directly adjacent to the turfgrass roots. The form of
nitrogen entering the plant can also alter the pH of the
rhizosphere soil. Rhizosphere soil is that in intimate contact with
the plant root system.

Direct effects on bulk soil pH

Nitrogen in the ammonium form generates acidity when the

ammonium is nitrified to nitrate and lowers bulk soil pH. The
initial reaction of urea is to increase soil pH through the hydrolysis
reaction. However, after nitrification of the ammonium soil pH is
eventually lowered. Decreases in soil pH resulting from
application of ammonium containing or forming fertilized will
occur in the absence of plants.

Nitrogen form effects on rhizosphere pH

The repeated application of nitrate containing fertilizer materials

generally increases rhizosphere soil pH. The plant causes the
increase in pH itself as nitrate is taken into the root and hydroxyl
ion (OH-) is released into the soil. However, when ammonium is
the primary form of nitrogen accumulated by the plant, the plant
releases acid and the pH adjacent to the root decreases.

Rhizosphere pHs can be as much as 2 pH units different than bulk

soil pH. Soil pH can substantially alter the population of
microorganisms inhabiting the rhizosphere.

Types of Nitrogen Fertilizers

Fast Release Nitrogen Fertilizers

Fast release, or soluble nitrogen fertilizers, are mostly inorganic

nitrogen salts. The exception is urea, which is considered a
synthetic organic compound. The inorganic salts become plant
available when they dissolve. Urea must undergo a hydrolysis
reaction prior to becoming plant available, but in most situations
this reaction is quite rapid and does not constitute a slow release
material.

The characteristics of the fertilizer material are determined by the

form of nitrogen in the fertilizer and the accompanying cation or
anion. Two characteristics that are important to turfgrass
production are the salt index and the residual acidity/basicity of
the fertilizer. The higher the salt index the greater the potential
for burn. Differences in acidity/basicity of the fertilizers will also
alter the liming needs of soil.

Slow or Controlled Release Nitrogen Fertilizers

A number of slow or controlled release fertilizer materials exist.

Some of these materials are natural, but many are manufactured.
The mechanism by which a controlled release of nitrogen is
achieved differs among the fertilizers. The influence of
temperature, soil moisture, and pH on release is also fertilizer
specific. Understanding the processes that govern nitrogen
release from each material is important to select the correct
fertilizer for each situation.

Coated Nitrogen Fertilizer sources

Nitrogen release from plastic-coated fertilizer particles depends

on moisture diffusing through the coating and into the particle,
dissolving the nitrogen source inside the particle, and diffusion of
the nitrogen solution out of the particle. Varying the thickness of
the particle coating as well as mixing particles of different coating
thickness controls the rate of nitrogen release. The type of
fertilizer material inside the particle also influences the rate of
nutrient release.

Increasing temperature from 50 to 68 of doubles the release rate

of nitrogen from plastic coated particles. Beyond 68 of there is a
smaller effect of temperature on release rate. Moisture is required
for nitrogen release from plastic-coated materials, but the rate of
release is not altered by soil moisture between field capacity and
the permanent wilting point. When plastic-coated fertilizers are

applied to the turf surface, moisture could be limiting at times.

Soil pH and the absence of microorganisms, from fumigation for
example, have no effect on the release of nitrogen from plastic
coated fertilizers.

Sulfur-coated urea consists of a urea particle coated with

elemental sulfur and then sealed with wax. A microbicide may
also be included in the wax to delay biological degradation of the
sealant. The thickness and integrity of the coating determine the
rate of nitrogen release from the fertilizer. Nitrogen release in the
first seven days after application is thought to arise from
damaged particles where there is no coating between urea and
the soil. Otherwise, the microorganisms first degrade the wax
sealant, the urea diffuses through the sulfur into the soil solution,
hydrolyzes, and is then made available to the plant. Turf mowers
may damage larger sulfur-coated urea particles, enhancing the
release of urea. Increased temperature and moisture increase the
release rate of nitrogen from sulfur coated urea, but soil pH does
not have an affect. Ammonia loss from surface applied sulfurcoated urea is less than that for surface-applied urea.

Processed organic fertilizers

Many different types of organic fertilizers are available. Base

materials for organic fertilizers include animal and human manure
and waste products from the processing of crop plants, trees, and
animals. Seaweed provides the basis for some organic fertilizers.
Treatment generally includes composting which transforms readily
available nitrogen into more slowly available forms and kills
disease organisms. Grinding or screening of materials is often

done to reduce particle size and provide a uniform range of

particle sizes.

The rate of nitrogen release from processed organic fertilizers is

highly dependent on the type of material. Since there are so
many different products available it is difficult to generalize as to
whether release rates are fast or slow. Since biological decay of
the organic fertilizer is required to release the nitrogen it is
certain that a healthy microbial population is required and that
temperature and moisture will greatly affect the rate of release.

Fertilizer quality

The performance of many of the slow release nitrogen sources is

highly dependent on the quality of their manufacture. The particle
size distribution of IBDU is critical to determining the release rate
of nitrogen. The uniformity of coating thickness and mixtures of
particles with varied coating thickness determines the rate of
release of plastic coated nitrogen sources. The relative
proportions of urea, dimethylene urea, and ureaformaldehyde
determine the nitrogen release of ureaformaldehyde based
nitrogen fertilizers. Consistent manufacturing of these fertilizers is
essential for repeatable performance and beneficial use by the
turfgrass manager.

Nitrogen Fertilizer Products

Biofertilizer or Nitrogen fertilizer by Biomax

Biomix is a strong root stimulator for plants that have already

rooted and also stimulates Root Development / growth in young
plant. It increases the resistance against disease. Biomix is
therefore an ideal substance for plants and cuttings that are
potted as well as for unhealthy and badly developed plants after a
state of shock. Biomix is of completely organic origin and suitable
for growing in potting soil and good for small plants. Biomix can
be used in agriculture for various applications.

1. Vital components of organic amendments and composts

2. Legume inoculants for biological nitrogen fixation

3. A means of suppressing insects and plant diseases

4. Improve crop quality and yields

Benefits

Restores soil microflora

Increases seed germination.

Promotes deeper rooting system.

 Decomposes organic waste.

Solubilizes and removes phosphate residues from soil.

Enhances nutrient cycling

Nitrogen Fertilizer -Gromor by Coromandel

Coromandel is one of leading manufacturer of nitrogen fertilizers
in South India. The ranges of fertilizers from Coromandel are
popularly known by the brand GROMOR.
GROMOR 14-35-14
Features

Contains Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium.

Highest total nutrient content among NPK fertilizers (63%)

N & P ratio same as DAP. In addition, GROMOR 14-35-14 has

extra 14% potash.

High in Phosphorous content (35%).

Best for almost all kinds of crops like Cotton, Groundnut, Chilly,
Soya bean, Potato.

 Not suitable for Tobacco and Grapes.

GROMOR 28-28-0
Features

Complex with highest N & P in 1:1 ratio.

Unique granulation by coating prilled urea with Ammonium

Phosphate layer.

Such granule configuration ensures efficient utilisation of

nutrients.

Highly suitable for Paddy & Wheat.

Commercial Nitrogen Fertilizers

Nitrogen Fertilizer by Koch Agronomic Services
Nitamin by Koch Agronomic Services produces liquid slow-release
fertilizer which is an effective and efficient nitrogen source for
crops.

Product Features

Soil-applied slow-release liquid nitrogen fertilizer

 Contains 22% N, of which 94% is slowly available

Blended with conventional liquid N fertilizers such as UAN

Non-burning formulation for best application results

Agronomic Benefits

Optimized nitrogen use efficiency

Higher crop yield

Less ammonia volatilization

Reduced nitrate leaching

Nitrogen or Nitrogenous Fertilizer range by Yara

Yara manufactures 5 types of nitrogen fertilizer for improving soil
fertility and boasting plant growth.

1) YaraBela

Nitrogen fertilizers comprise cost-effective sources of nitrogen

and calcium to fuel growth and productivity. Most commonly
packaged as bulk products, YaraBela fertilizers are widely used as
dry applications on large-scale field crops.

It is formulated with calcium as calcium ammonium nitrate

(CAN) YaraBela fertilizers also boost crop quality. This includes
improved tuber quality in potatoes and better storability in highquality brassica crops.

2) YaraLiva:
These fertilizers are a comprehensive range of calcium nitrates
that help ensure high-value, highly marketable produce. Quite
simply, they are a range of high-quality fertilizers that optimize
cash-crop performance and produce food that satisfies even the
most demanding growers and consumers.

They provide fast-acting nitrate-N, alongside strength-building

calcium and boron. In combination, these nutrients fuel prolonged
growth. At the same time, plants and trees treated with YaraLivabranded fertilizers are naturally healthier and less sensitive to
stress during growth. Then, critically, in the build-up to harvest,
YaraLiva fertilizers improve the size, strength and appearance of
the fruit, tuber, leaf or lettuce.

3) YaraMila:
This complex fertilizer is a comprehensive range of the most
essential plant nutrients a combination of nitrogen (N),

phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) designed to maximize crop

yield and quality.

Formulated to meet precise crop requirements, these NPKs are

some of the most highly efficient sources of N, P and K available.
Each YaraMila particle contains precisely tailored amounts of NPK.
So, when accurately applied to a crop, YaraMila fertilizers ensure
the accurate, complete addition of these major nutrients.

4) YaraVera:
Nitrogen fertilizers are cost-effective, highly concentrated and
highly efficient sources of urea.

With a nitrogen concentration of 46 percent, YaraVera fertilizers

ensure strong, sustained growth over a prolonged period through
efficient nutrient release.

They can be applied to the soil as solid granules, in solution or to

certain crops as a foliar spray. When properly applied, YaraVera
fertilizers support optimum-efficiency plant growth leading to
some of the highest yields possible.

5) YaraVita:
YaraVita fertilizer is a complete line of nutrient products that
ensure crops obtain everything they need and that growers gain
more from optimally performing crops.

Each YaraVita formulation delivers a specific nutrient or nutrient

mix exactly when and where the crop needs it, boosting crop
performance. This includes accurately applied and essential doses
of micronutrients either as straight products or combi-mixtures. In
addition, the YaraVita range includes formulations that back up
supplies of major or secondary nutrients during periods when
these are unavailable from other sources.

Nitrogen Fertilizers, NPK Fertilizers by Tata Chemicals

Tata Chemicals presents 3 varieties of nitrogen based fertilizers
for crops.

Urea (a nitrogenous fertiliser)

Di-ammonium phosphate (contains both nitrogen and

phosphorus)

Nitrogen phosphorous potassium complexes (contains all three

nutrients-N, P, K)

Tata chemicals is one of leading fertilizer manufacturer in India.

All fertilizer combinations are modified as per Indian weather
conditions and crop requirement.

The nature of the soil in many Indian regions is such that

nitrogenous fertilisers are an important input for most crops. Urea

is an important nitrogenous fertiliser and Tata Chemicals is a

major manufacturer of the product in India.

Each fertilizer is important in terms of Indian agriculture and

Fertilizers from Tata chemicals has major presence in north Indian
region.