Liquid vs. Granular Fertilizer | Verdesian Life Sciences

Fertilizers are critical to maintaining the health and vitality of your crops. Two of the most common types of fertilizers are liquid and granular fertilizers. While they both serve the same purpose of providing essential nutrients to plants, they differ in their application methods, efficiency, and cost.

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Key Differences Between Liquid and Granular Fertilizers

Choosing between liquid and granular fertilizers can be a daunting task. Here, we will explore the differences between the two types of fertilizers and provide you with the information you need to decide which option is the best for you.

What Is Granular Fertilizer?

Granular fertilizer is a dry fertilizer that typically comes in pellet form. This type of fertilizer is known for its slow-release properties, meaning it slowly releases nutrients over time. As a result, using granular fertilizers can help reduce the frequency of fertilization compared to quick-release fertilizers, which disperse all nutrients at once. 

Slow-release granular fertilizers typically only need to be applied once during the season.

Benefits of Granular Fertilizer

• The slow-release properties of granular fertilizers make them ideal for long-term crop health.
• Granular fertilizers require less frequent application compared to quick-release liquid fertilizers because they can last for several weeks or months.
• Granular fertilizers have a longer shelf life than most liquid fertilizers, saving you money in the long run.
• When bought in bulk, granular fertilizers cost less than liquid fertilizers.

Other Considerations for Granular Fertilizer

• It can be more challenging to spread granular fertilizers than liquid fertilizers. One of the drawbacks is the potential for uneven distribution if not applied correctly.
• For struggling crops that require an immediate nutrient boost, granular fertilizers may not provide enough nutrients fast enough.
• Since some granular fertilizers contain dust and particulate matter, uniform nutrient distribution is sometimes impossible.

What Is Liquid Fertilizer?

Liquid fertilizer is a type of fertilizer that comes in a liquid concentrate that needs to be diluted with water before being applied. Some liquid fertilizers begin as water-soluble tablets that dissolve in water first. 

Unlike granular fertilizers, liquid fertilizers are typically quick-releasing, meaning they provide an immediate burst of nutrients to crops. This quick release also means that liquid fertilizers may need to be applied more frequently than granular fertilizers.

Benefits of Liquid Fertilizer

• Liquid fertilizers provide an immediate burst of nutrients to crops, which can help quickly improve health.
• They are easy to apply, making fertilization fast and efficient.
• Liquid fertilizers can be more effective than granular fertilizers in areas with poor soil or low water availability since plants can absorb them more easily.
• Liquid fertilizers can be more cost-effective than granular fertilizers when fertilizing smaller crop areas.

Other Considerations for Liquid Fertilizer

• Liquid fertilizers require more frequent application than granular fertilizers due to their quick-release properties.
• They can be more expensive than granular fertilizers, particularly if they contain high-quality ingredients.
• Applying liquid fertilizers can be more time-consuming than using granular fertilizers, mainly if you need to mix the concentrate with water before application.
• Liquid fertilizers have a shorter shelf life than granular fertilizers and may lose their strength over time.

Do Liquid and Granular Fertilizers Share Any of the Same Nutrients?

Both granular and liquid fertilizers supply the most vital nutrients that crops need to thrive: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Most fertilizers contain a specific ratio of these nutrients which can be determined by reviewing the fertilizer label.

For example, 24-25-4 fertilizer refers to fertilizer that contains 24% nitrogen, 25% phosphorus, and 4% potassium. Potassium is sometimes referred to as potash in the context of fertilizer. Regardless of whether you choose a granular or liquid fertilizer, both types will provide your crops with the same valuable nutrients in the same ratios.

Application Methods for Liquid and Granular Fertilizers

When applying fertilizer, there are different methods for liquid and granular fertilizers. Here are some application instructions and tips for both:

Liquid Fertilizer

Foliar application:

Foliar application involves spraying liquid fertilizers directly onto the leaves, so the plant can easily absorb nutrients through the leaf surface. This is useful for ensuring that nutrients are quickly delivered, especially during periods of high nutrient demand or stress. Avoid applying liquid fertilizer during hot or dry weather, as it may cause leaf burn.

Irrigation application: 

Irrigation systems (drip irrigation, micro-sprinklers, center pivots, etc.) can easily apply liquid fertilizer to crops. These systems mix the fertilizer with irrigation water and apply it directly to the root zone of the plants. Irrigation systems are helpful for evenly distributing nutrients to crops and ensuring maximum uptake by the plants.

Seed treatment: 

Seed coating is the process of applying liquid fertilizer to the seed before planting using specialized materials. With seed treatments, the seed absorbs the nutrients from the fertilizer during its early growth and development.

Soil application: 

Soil application is a fertilization method that involves applying liquid fertilizer to the soil’s surface so the plants can absorb its nutrients through the roots. This method typically helps provide nutrients to established crops, especially when the soil conditions make it challenging for granular fertilizers to infiltrate the soil.

Banding or side-dressing: 

This fertilization method applies liquid fertilizer in bands or trenches along the crop row, similar to granular fertilizers. Banding or side-dressing ensures that an intense concentration of nutrients reaches the root zone to improve uptake efficiency and minimize waste.

Granular Fertilizer

Broadcasting:

Broadcasting refers to evenly spreading granular fertilizer over an entire field using mechanical spreaders. This fertilization method is appropriate for crops with consistent nutrient requirements and can be accomplished manually or with specialized equipment like broadcast spreaders or fertilizer spreaders mounted on tractors. While broadcasting provides good coverage, it may result in some nutrient wastage.

Banding:

With banding, granular fertilizer is placed in a band near the seed or plant root zone by opening a trench along the crop row and applying the fertilizer in the furrow before covering it with soil. Banding ensures that the nutrients are concentrated in the root zone, minimizing waste and maximizing uptake efficiency. This method is particularly helpful for row crops.

Side-dressing: 

Side-dressing refers to applying granular fertilizer alongside developing plants during the growing season. A furrow or trench is made beside the crop row, and the fertilizer is placed in the furrow. Side-dressing is perfect for crops with high nutrient demands or plants that require additional fertilization during specific growth stages. This fertilization method targets the nutrients directly to the active root zone, improving nutrient uptake and minimizing losses.

Top-dressing: 

This method involves applying granular fertilizer on the soil surface around the crop plants. Top dressing is meant for established crops that require additional nutrients. Top-dressing can be done by hand or with spreaders and evenly distributes fertilizer around the plants. Avoid direct contact with plant foliage to prevent leaf burn.

Fertigation: 

Fertigation refers to applying fertilizers via irrigation systems. Granular fertilizers are dissolved or suspended in water and applied through drip irrigation, sprinklers, or other irrigation methods. Fertigation allows for precise and controlled application of nutrients and ensures efficient uptake by the plants. 

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Seed coating: 

Granular fertilizers can also be applied as seed coatings, where the fertilizer particles attach to the seed surface. This technique provides nutrients directly to the emerging seedling, promoting early growth and development. This application method requires specialized seed coating equipment or commercial seed treatments.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate spreader setting and coverage rate.

Which Type of Fertilizer is Best for More Profitable Crop Production?

The type of fertilizer used can make all the difference. When it comes to crop production, farmers need to carefully consider which fertilizer type will provide the most benefit for their specific crops. While liquid and granular fertilizers can offer valuable nutrients, custom-blended granular fertilizers can help farmers improve their overall crop production.

Verdesian Life Sciences is proud to offer innovative solutions for farmers. We specifically tailor our products to improve crop production and increase revenue for farmers. 

Our MicroSync® Granular Micronutrients maintain optimum plant health to help young plants ward off invasion by pathogens and insects and include critical components for abiotic stress tolerance. 

AVAIL® T5 Fertilizers reduce the fixation of applied Phosphorus, keeping more of it available for plant uptake. This can lead to rapid, early growth, healthier crops, and heightened yield potential.

Controlled Release Fertilizers (CRFs) are specialized fertilizers coated with a semipermeable membrane, designed to gradually release nutrients into the soil over time, providing a steady and predictable supply of essential nutrients to plants.These and other fFertilizers are used by farmers around the world to increase yields and produce better crops. They can supply a wide range of nutrients, from the three basic macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), to a number of micronutrients that assist with plant growth. 

There are various types of fertilizers and different application methods (such as granular fertilizers, WSF or liquid, application before planting/seeding, broadcasting, top dressing, side dressing, through drip lines, or as a foliar feed) and one should consider the nutrient needs of your crop, the soil characteristics, and the time/resources available when deciding which fertilizer and application method to use. 

With many farmers concerned with nutrient use efficiency and environmental impact, many have chosen to utilize controlled release fertilizers or CRFs. CRFs are granular fertilizers coated with a semipermeable membrane that gradually release nutrients into the soil over a given period of time and are commonly used across agricultural production. 

Studies have shown that growers can achieve higher production and higher quality using CRFs while meeting new regulations to limit nitrogen losses to the environment. 

CRFs are used in all agricultural and horticultural crops across the world and the specific CRF products differ for each crop, nutrient composition, release time, and more. Understanding  how to use controlled release fertilizers, controlled release versus slow-release fertilizers, the advantages of controlled release fertilizers, and how ICL can help with all your CRF needs will help with CRF implementation in your practices. 

History of CRFs

The first commercial plant fertilizer was patented in by Sir John Bennet Lawes and after 100+ years of research, the first Controlled Release Fertilizer (CRF) was created in by Archer Daniels Midland Company. Since then, world food production has become highly dependent on the use of fertilizers, as they help increase crop yields, enabling us to produce more food for more people. This increase in crop production in turn means that less land is needed for farming because of its efficient use. 

However, there are some negative effects of fertilizers on the environment that have become deeply concerning. For example, the overapplication of fertilizers can result in excessive nitrogen running off of fields and into nearby bodies of water, disrupting the ecosystem. 

By understanding how fertilizers work, specifically controlled release fertilizers, you can get an idea of how they play a key role in contributing to world food production and preserving the environment. 

How do CRFs work?

Controlled Release Fertilizers (CRFs) are granular fertilizers that are covered by a semipermeable membrane and when applied to the soil, allow moisture to penetrate it and reach the nutrient(s) inside. 

“The core of the controlled release fertilizers start to dissolve and day by day, at a rate influenced by soil temperature, small amounts of nutrients are released back into the rooting zone for plant uptake. This practice limits nutrient losses and offers predictable availability of nutrients (from 1-2 months, up to 16-18 months) that is aligned with the plant’s needs,” explains Cristian Filote, ICL CRF’s International Technical Manager.

CRFs are designed to provide farmers with maximum results with minimal effort. By regulating plant nutrient levels throughout the entire growth cycle, plants have limited exposure to nutrient deficiency and are able to have more uniform growth and usually higher yields.

Controlled Release Fertilizers vs. Slow Release Fertilizers?

It’s important to know the difference between slow-release (SRF) and controlled-release fertilizers (CRF), as they serve different purposes and have different effects. While SRF and CRF are sometimes used synonymously (incorrectly), there are striking differences between controlled release versus slow-release fertilizers.

Slow release fertilizers (SRFs) involve a slower release rate of nutrients than conventional water-soluble fertilizers, but the rate, pattern, and duration of release are not controlled. This is because SRFs depend on microbial organisms, whose effectiveness is dependent on soil temperature and moisture conditions.

By comparison, controlled release fertilizers (CRFs) describe fertilizers that have a well-known and controllable rate, pattern and duration of release. CRFs are primarily granular fertilizers, soluble in water and the semipermeable barriers that are present on the outside of the granules to control the nutrient release. 

The nutrient release of CRFs is steered by soil temperature. Depending on the region, soil temperature and CRF longevities can vary. The CRF Timer of ICL calculates and shows the nutrient availability from your CRF.

You may be interested in:

Fertilizes 101
Precision Fertilization: The 4Rs Smarter Nutrition Strategies
What are Water Soluble Fertilizers (WSFs) and How They Function

Advantages of CRFs

Along with understanding how to use controlled release fertilizers, there are numerous advantages of CRFs relating to environmental impact, improved nutrient use efficiency, increased or comparable yields, and reduced nutrient loss.  

Limit Negative Environmental Impact 

• Nitrogen losses can occur in the field by leaching (when the soil becomes so saturated with water that the N isn’t able to be absorbed), volatilization (the loss of applied nitrogen to the atmosphere as ammonia gas), and denitrification (when soil bacteria use nitrate for their respiration in the place of oxygen in the air and resulting in a net loss of nitrate from the soil system). 
• Latest lab trials, performed by specialized trial stations, demonstrate that ICL’s CRFs can limit nitrogen losses by 54-61% from leaching, 32-54% by volatilization, and 11% by denitrification when compared to conventional urea.
  

Improve Nutrient Use Efficiency

• Globally, nutrient use efficiency has been drastically low for the last 40 years, fluctuating between 40-50%, meaning that the majority of applied fertilizers are lost to the natural environment.
• By targeting fertilizer application using CRFs, nutrient losses are reduced and higher nutrient use efficiency is achieved.
  

Provide Higher or Comparable Yields with Reduced Fertilizer Applications

• ICL’s Cristian Filote reported that several field trials with potato varieties and varying nitrogen applications in countries across Europe showed that CRFs (specifically Agromaster) can significantly improve the yield using the same amount of nitrogen applied as conventional fertilizers. 
• Additional studies conducted by ICL in Spain looking at rice production found that using CRFs increased the yield by 60% for each kg of nitrogen applied. 
• Farmers will also notice enhanced crop uniformity due to controlled nutrition from the controlled release fertilizers.
  

Reduce the Number of Applications and Save Resources 

• Limiting nutrient losses minimizes the risk of environmental harm and allows for fertilizer inputs to be used more effectively, therefore reducing the overall amount needed. 
• Reducing the number of applications needed saves farmers money by decreasing the labor and fuel needed overall and allowing them to profit more off of their harvest.

ICL’s Role in CRFs

ICL’s R&D team is continuously dedicated to developing new products and innovative technologies to improve the environmental profile of our plant nutrition and maintenance products and services. Starting with quality, raw materials, and high attention to detail, ICL creates reliable products that set the standard for controlled release fertilizers.

ICL’s most recent fertilizer innovation, Agroblen with V-Factor, is a unique combination of CRFs with specific embedded organic growth enhancers. V-Factor is specifically designed to improve the root systems of young plants. Thanks to the fully coated N-P-K, and its application in planting holes (close to the root system), this product is the safest granular fertilizer that meets a plant’s needs over a period of time. 

Barbara Meijkamp, Sr. Scientist and Agronomist at ICL says, “Innovating a poor product is easy, but improving a product that is already good and efficient, that is a challenge. Our team is always striving to further develop its products and create even better solutions for plants and [the] environment.” That’s why ICL is a leading company in the global food, agriculture, and industrial markets.

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