How to choose NPK compound fertilizer for corn fields

How To Choose NPK Compound Fertilizer for Corn Fields

When selecting NPK compound fertilizers suitable for corn fields, the following key factors need to be considered:

Nitrogen phosphorus potassium ratio: The requirements for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium vary during the growth process of corn. Typically, for every 100 kilograms of corn kernels produced, 2.5 kilograms of pure nitrogen, 1.2 kilograms of phosphorus pentoxide, and 2.0 kilograms of potassium oxide need to be absorbed. The nitrogen phosphorus potassium ratio is 1:0.48:0.81. However, there are slight differences in nutrient requirements among different regions and varieties of corn. For example, spring corn has a nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium ratio of 1:0.3:1.5, which requires absorption of 3.5-4.0 kilograms of nitrogen, 1.2-1.4 kilograms of phosphorus, and 5-6 kilograms of potassium; The nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium ratio of summer corn is 1:0.5:1.5, requiring absorption of 2.5-2.7 kilograms of nitrogen, 1.1-1.4 kilograms of phosphorus, and 3.7-4.2 kilograms of potassium. Therefore, when choosing compound fertilizers, the nitrogen phosphorus potassium ratio should be adjusted according to specific circumstances.

Fertilizer types: Common fertilizer types include traditional nitrogen phosphorus potassium (NPK) fertilizers, compound fertilizers, slow-release fertilizers, and corn specific fertilizers. Traditional NPK fertilizers include urea (containing 46% nitrogen), diammonium phosphate sulfide (containing 17% nitrogen and 46% phosphorus), potassium chloride (containing 50% potassium), etc. Compound fertilizers such as 45% compound fertilizers (N15, P15, K15) have an effect equivalent to 27 pounds of urea, 32 pounds of diammonium phosphate, and 30 pounds of potassium chloride. Slow release fertilizer can be applied in one go, which is effective throughout the entire growth period and saves manpower. Corn specific fertilizer contains nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace elements, suitable for specific conditions.

Fertilization amount and method: The fertilization amount should be adjusted according to soil fertility, target yield, and corn growth stage. Land plots with high soil fertility can reduce the amount of fertilizer applied, while plots with low soil fertility can increase the amount of fertilizer applied. When the target yield is high, it is necessary to increase the amount of fertilizer to meet the nutrient requirements. Corn has different nutrient requirements at different growth stages, such as from the bell mouth stage to the tasseling stage, where nutrient demand is most vigorous. At this time, the amount of fertilizer should be appropriately increased. In terms of fertilization method, it is recommended to apply bottom fertilizer deeply to the 20cm soil layer to facilitate root absorption; Apply fertilizer in stages to meet the needs of each growth stage; Combining organic fertilizers to improve soil structure and increase fertilizer utilization efficiency.