ABSTRACT

The application of fertilizers to crop depends on type of fertilizer, nature of crops, age and stage of crops, crop response, soil types, soil reaction, methods of fertilizer application etc hence, it is essential to know the different methods of fertilizers application to increase crop productivity by increasing fertilizer use efficiency. The time of application mainly depends on crop uptake pattern, soil properties, nature of the fertilizer material and utilization of carbohydrates. Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are taken in large quantities in early stages of crop growth. Application of recommended dose of fertilizers in two or three splits during crop period is known as split application of fertilizers. Liquid form fertilizers are applied with irrigation water or for direct application. Quick response to the crop, high use efficiency, ease of handling, less labour requirement and possibility of mixing with herbicides has made the liquid fertilizers more acceptable to farmers.