INTEGRITY, SERVICE AND EXCELLENCE.

CHALIMBANA UNIVERSITY
DIRECTORATE OF DISTANCE EDUCATION

NAME : NAKATUNGA ANASTASIA

STNDENT NO : 224032312

COURSE : ISC 2100

PROGRAM : BED – PRIMARY YEAR 2

YEAR OF STUDY : APRIL, 2022.

LECTURER : MR. ALEX J. MWIINGA

ASSIGNMENT NO : TWO [2]

DUE DATE : 30th SEPTEMBER, 2023.

PHONE NO : 0972824432

QUESTION : Write the Advantages and Disadvantages of fertilizer application

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This piece of writing will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of fertilizers application.
In the first place, fertilizer application can be applied to crops in different ways which are
application of solid fertilizers and liquid fertilizers. Which are Fertigation, foliar, broadcast,
placement, injecting, Aerial, band placement, pallet and starter application. Below are the
advantages and disadvantages of the Application methods of fertilizer.

1. Fertigation

Advantages of Fertigation:

- Increased Nutrient Efficiency: Fertigation allows for precise control and

application of fertilizers, resulting in improved nutrient uptake by plants. The
nutrients are directly supplied to the root zone, reducing losses through
leaching or volatilization.
- Water Conservation: Fertigation integrates irrigation and fertilization
processes, optimizing water usage. It ensures that nutrients are applied at the
right time and in the right amount, minimizing water wastage associated with
traditional irrigation and manual fertilizer application methods.
- Improved Crop Yield and Quality: By providing a constant and balanced
supply of nutrients, fertigation promotes healthy plant growth, leading to
increased crop yields and improved quality. It allows for adjustments in
nutrient composition based on specific crop requirements and growth stages.
- Enhanced Control and Flexibility: Fertigation systems offer precise control
over nutrient application rates, timing, and frequency. This flexibility enables
growers to adjust fertilizer inputs based on real-time crop needs,
environmental conditions, and soil analysis, resulting in optimal plant
nutrition.
- Labor and Time Savings: Compared to manual or broadcast fertilizer
application methods, fertigation significantly reduces labor requirements.
Automated systems can be programmed to deliver nutrients at
predetermined intervals, reducing the need for manual labor and saving time.

Disadvantages of Fertigation:

- Initial Investment: Implementing a fertigation system requires an initial

investment in equipment, including pumps, injectors, controllers, and
irrigation infrastructure. The cost of installation and maintenance may pose a
financial challenge for some growers, especially small-scale farmers.
- Technical Expertise: Fertigation systems require technical knowledge and
expertise to set up and operate effectively. Growers need to understand
factors such as irrigation scheduling, water quality, nutrient requirements,
and system calibration. Lack of knowledge or improper system management
can result in suboptimal nutrient delivery and potential crop damage.
 - System Complexity and Maintenance: Fertigation systems consist of multiple
components that require regular maintenance and calibration. Clogging of
injectors or filters, malfunctioning of pumps, or inaccurate nutrient mixing
can disrupt the system’s functionality and affect nutrient delivery. Ongoing
maintenance and monitoring are essential to ensure system efficiency.
- Potential for Nutrient Imbalances: While fertigation provides precise nutrient
control, there is a risk of over-fertilization or nutrient imbalances if the system
is not properly managed. Careful monitoring of nutrient levels, regular soil
testing, and adjustment of fertilizer formulations are necessary to avoid
excessive nutrient accumulation or deficiencies.
- Dependence on Water Availability and Quality: Fertigation relies on a reliable
water supply and suitable water quality. In areas with limited water resources
or poor water quality, fertigation may not be feasible. Water scarcity, salinity,
or contamination can affect nutrient availability, uptake, and crop
performance.

Foliar, broadcast, and placement methods are three common techniques used in agriculture
for the application of fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural inputs. Each method has
its own advantages and disadvantages, which are discussed below:

2. Foliar Method:

The foliar method involves spraying the agricultural inputs directly onto the leaves of plants.
This method offers several advantages:

- Rapid nutrient absorption: Foliar application allows for quick absorption of nutrients by the
plant as they are directly applied to the leaves, bypassing the root system. This can be
particularly beneficial in situations where plants have nutrient deficiencies or when
immediate correction is required.

- Targeted application: Foliar spraying enables precise targeting of specific plants or plant
parts, allowing for selective treatment. This is especially useful in situations where only
certain plants require treatment or when localized pest or disease control is needed.

- Reduced soil interactions: Since foliar-applied inputs bypass the soil, they are not subject to
soil interactions such as fixation, leaching, or volatilization. This can help minimize nutrient
losses and increase overall efficiency.

However, there are also some disadvantages associated with the foliar method.

Disadvantages of foliar method

- Limited nutrient uptake: While foliar application provides rapid nutrient absorption, it is
generally less efficient compared to root uptake. The leaf surface area available for
absorption is limited, and not all nutrients can be effectively absorbed through the leaves.
- Risk of phytotoxicity: Some agricultural inputs can cause damage to plant tissues if applied
at high concentrations or under unfavourable environmental conditions. Care must be taken
to ensure that the concentration and timing of foliar applications are appropriate to avoid
phytotoxicity.

- Labor-intensive: Foliar spraying requires specialized equipment and trained personnel to

ensure proper coverage and application. This can increase labor costs and time requirements
compared to other methods.

3. Broadcast Method:

The broadcast method involves spreading agricultural inputs uniformly over a large area,
such as a field or pasture. This method offers several advantages:

Advantages of broadcasting method

- Uniform distribution: Broadcasting allows for even distribution of inputs across a large
area, ensuring that all plants receive a relatively equal amount of nutrients or pesticides.
This can help promote uniform plant growth and reduce the risk of nutrient deficiencies or
pest outbreaks.

- Time and cost-effective: Broadcasting can be a relatively quick and cost-effective method,
especially when using mechanized equipment such as spreaders. It allows for the treatment
of large areas in a relatively short period, making it suitable for extensive farming systems.

- Minimal soil disturbance: Unlike placement methods that require soil incorporation,
broadcasting does not disturb the soil structure significantly. This can help preserve soil
health and minimize erosion risks.

However, there are also some disadvantages associated with the broadcast method:

Disadvantages of broadcasting method.

- Losses due to runoff: When agricultural inputs are broadcasted on sloping terrain or during
heavy rainfall, there is a risk of runoff. This can result in the loss of nutrients or pesticides
from the target area, leading to environmental pollution and reduced effectiveness.

- Inefficient use of inputs: Broadcasting can lead to over-application or under-application of

inputs in certain areas. Uneven terrain, wind patterns, or equipment malfunctions can cause
variations in application rates, resulting in inefficient use of inputs and potential crop yield
variability.

- Limited targeting: The broadcast method treats the entire area uniformly, which may not
be necessary if only specific plants or areas require treatment. This lack of precision can
result in unnecessary input usage and increased costs.
4. Placement Method:

The placement method involves applying agricultural inputs directly to the root zone of
plants. This method offers several advantages:

- Enhanced nutrient uptake: Placement allows for direct contact between the input and
plant roots, maximizing nutrient uptake efficiency. Nutrients are applied where they are
most needed, promoting optimal plant growth and minimizing losses.

- Reduced environmental impact: By targeting inputs to the root zone, the placement
method minimizes the risk of nutrient leaching or runoff, reducing the potential for water
pollution. This can help protect water quality and preserve ecosystem health.

- Selective treatment: Placement methods, such as banding or localized application, allow

for selective treatment of specific plants or areas. This precision targeting can be particularly
advantageous when managing nutrient deficiencies or controlling pests in a localized
manner.

However, there are also some disadvantages associated with the placement method.

Disadvantages of placement method.

- Labor and equipment requirements: Placement methods often require specialized

equipment and skilled labor to ensure accurate application. This can increase costs and time
requirements compared to other methods.

- Limited coverage: The placement method treats only the immediate vicinity of the plant
roots, which may not be sufficient for certain crops or situations. Additional treatments or
supplemental methods may be necessary to ensure uniform nutrient distribution across the
entire field.

- Potential for root damage: Improper placement techniques or equipment can cause
damage to plant roots during application. This can lead to reduced plant vigor, decreased
yields, or increased susceptibility.

5. Aerial application method

Advantages of Aerial application.

- Efficiency: Aerial application allows for large areas to be covered quickly, making it
especially beneficial for large-scale farming operations.
- Accessibility: Aerial application can reach remote or inaccessible areas that may be
challenging to access with ground-based equipment.
- Speed: Aircraft can cover a significant amount of land in a short period, enabling
timely application during critical growth stages.
- Flexibility: Aerial application allows for precise targeting of specific areas, such as
uneven terrain or areas with crop variability.
Disadvantages of Aerial application

- Lack of Precision: Aerial application may not provide the same level of accuracy and
precision as ground-based methods, which can result in uneven distribution and
potential waste of fertilizers.
- Environmental Concerns: There can be risks associated with aerial application, such
as drift, where fertilizers may be carried by wind currents and affect non-target areas,
including water bodies or neighbouring crops.
- Cost: Aerial application can be more expensive compared to other methods,
primarily due to the cost of aircraft and specialized equipment.

6. Band Placements

Advantages:

- Increased Efficiency: Band placement allows for precise application of fertilizers

directly to the root zone, reducing wastage and optimizing nutrient uptake by crops.
- Enhanced Nutrient Management: By placing fertilizers in bands, farmers can
placement better control nutrient availability, avoiding excessive fertilization and
minimizing the risk of nutrient runoff.
- Conservation of Resources: Band reduces the overall amount of fertilizer required,
leading to cost savings and minimizing the environmental impact associated with
excess fertilizer use.

Disadvantages:

- Labor-Intensive: Band placement typically requires specialized equipment and more

labor compared to other methods, which can increase operational costs.
- Limited Area Coverage: The process of band placement is slower compared to aerial
or broadcast application, making it less suitable for large-scale farming operations.
- Potential Root Damage: If not done carefully, band placement may result in root
damage during the application process, which can have negative impacts on crop
growth.

7. Pallet Application:

Advantages:

- Precision: Pallet application allows for accurate placement of fertilizers directly into
the soil, ensuring that nutrients are available to the crops in the target area.
- Flexibility: Pallet application can be adapted to various field conditions and crop
types, allowing for customized nutrient management strategies.
- Reduced Nutrient Loss: By applying fertilizers directly into the soil, pallet application
minimizes the risk of nutrient runoff and leaching, promoting efficient nutrient
utilization.
Disadvantages:

- Equipment and Cost: Pallet application may require specialized equipment, which can
be costly to purchase and maintain.
- Limited Area Coverage: Similar to band placement, pallet application may not be
suitable for large-scale operations due to its slower application rate.
- Labor-Intensive: Pallet application may require additional labor compared to other
methods, as it involves handling and placing individual pallets.

8. Starter Application:

Advantages:

- Early Nutrient Availability: Starter application provides essential nutrients to young

plants during the critical early growth stages when their nutrient demands are high,
promoting healthy establishment.
- Increased Yield Potential: By ensuring the availability of nutrients at the beginning of
the growing season, starter application can contribute to higher crop yields.
- Efficient Nutrient Use: Starter fertilizers are typically applied in close proximity to the
seed or root zone, minimizing nutrient losses through leaching or runoff.

Disadvantages

1. Increased Cost: Starter fertilizers can be more expensive compared to traditional

fertilizers. The additional cost of purchasing and applying starter fertilizers may not always
be economically viable, especially for crops with low nutrient requirements during the early
growth stages.

2. Potential for Seed or Root Damage: If starter fertilizers are not carefully applied, they can
come into direct contact with seeds or young roots, causing damage and inhibiting
germination or early root development.

3. Nutrient Imbalance: Starter fertilizers are typically formulated with specific nutrient ratios
tailored for early plant growth. However, if not applied correctly or if the soil already
contains sufficient nutrients, it can lead to an imbalance in nutrient availability, potentially
affecting plant health and development.

4. Environmental Concerns: Improper application or excessive use of starter fertilizers can

contribute to nutrient runoff and water pollution, especially if heavy rainfall or irrigation
occurs soon after application.

5. Limited Effectiveness: The benefits of starter fertilizers may vary depending on soil
conditions, crop type, and environmental factors. In some cases, the impact of starter
fertilizers on crop performance may be minimal or negligible, making it less advantageous in
certain situations.
References:

1. Sadras, V. O., & Rodriguez, D. (2007). Fertigation: Nutrient management in fruit crops.
Horticultural Reviews, 33, 85-139.
2. Shock, C., & Feibert, E. (2016). Fertigation: A tool for efficient fertilizer and water
management.
3. Ganesh, A.s ( 2014 )the op sown approach. Hindu.
4. Houser, just.s (1922),the airplane in catalog sphin control Agricultural Experiments
station.
5. Aerial application. Seek.niehs.nih.gov.(2022)