1、Roles of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers in carbon sequestration in a Chinese agricultural ecosystem
To enhance cereal production and meet the escalating food demands of the increasingly affluent population in China, the application of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) fertilizers to agricultural soils has risen significantly.
2、Fertilizer Management Strategies for Sustainable Rice Production
Chemical fertilizers are the main input for high-yielding rice cultivation globally. Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are the most applied nutrient for rice production.
3、Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium Flows through the Manure Management Chain in China
Herein, we present a detailed analysis of the nutrient flows and losses in the “feed intake–excretion–housing–storage–treatment–application” manure chain, while considering differences among livestock production systems.
4、Effects of fertilization on crop production and nutrient
Four mineral fertilizer treatments (NPK, NP, NK and PK) were applied in a randomized complete block design with three replicates.
Accumulation of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in sugarcane cultivated under different types of water management and doses of nitrogen
Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of different types of water managements (M) and application of varying doses of nitrogen (N) in dry biomass accumulation (DB), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), in the different organs of the sugarcane plant (leaf, tip and culm).
Optimizing fertilizer use for sustainable food systems: an evaluation of integrated water
Second, the study does not make distinctions among different fertilizer types, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Third, soil quality will affect fertilizer use efficiency which was documented by the effects of integrated soil-crop system management adoption.
Combined application of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers increases soil organic carbon storage in cropland soils
Download Citation | On Jul 1, 2025, Jianyu Tao and others published Combined application of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers increases soil organic carbon storage in cropland soils | Find, read ...
Soil acidity, available phosphorus content, and optimal biochar and nitrogen fertilizer application rates: A five
To our knowledge, this work presents the first long-term field trial using biochar combined with nitrogen fertilizer on a rapeseed and sweet potato rotation to study the optimal biochar and nitrogen fertilizer application ratio.
A plan for efficient use of nitrogen fertilizers
A global analysis finds that nitrogen fertilizers could be used more efficiently if their international distribution across croplands was altered — a measure that would also decrease nitrogen...
Absorption and Utilization of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium in Rice Plants Under Site
The results showed that under same N level, compared with the no straw incorporation, RI reduced N content and the accumulations of N, phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in rice plants at the early growth stage but maintained high levels of contents of P and K during the whole growth period.
Supplementing nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) fertilizers during watering is critical for plant growth. Proper fertilization techniques promote healthy floral development. Below is a detailed guide on how to effectively provide these essential nutrients:
I. Understanding Fertilizer Components
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Nitrogen Fertilizer:
- Function: Stimulates leaf growth, enhances green color, and boosts photosynthesis. Improves disease resistance, but excessive use may cause rapid, weak growth (leggy growth).
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Phosphorus Fertilizer:
- Function: Vital for root development, flower bud differentiation, and fruit maturation. Enhances stress resistance (e.g., drought, cold tolerance).
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Potassium Fertilizer:
- Function: Strengthens disease resistance, prevents lodging, improves flower quality, and regulates water balance. Protects plants from drought/waterlogging damage.
II. Selecting Appropriate Fertilizers
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Plant-Specific Needs:
- Match fertilizers to plant types. For example:
- Foliage plants: Prioritize nitrogen for lush leaves.
- Fruit-bearing plants: Emphasize phosphorus for fruit/flower development.
- Match fertilizers to plant types. For example:
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Soil Conditions:
- pH Considerations: Neutral/slightly acidic soils suit high-nitrogen fertilizers, while alkaline soils benefit from added phosphorus/potassium to neutralize excess alkalinity.
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Brand and Quality:
- Choose reputable brands with guaranteed nutrient content. Check labels, consult experts, or read reviews to ensure purity and effectiveness.
III. Fertilization Techniques
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Even Distribution:
- Spread fertilizers uniformly around plants to avoid localized burns or nutrient imbalance. Options include:
- Dissolving fertilizers in water and spraying evenly.
- Sprinkling dry fertilizer and lightly working it into the soil.
- Spread fertilizers uniformly around plants to avoid localized burns or nutrient imbalance. Options include:
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Avoid Direct Contact:
- Prevent fertilizer from touching leaves/stems to avoid scorching. For root-zone application, dilute solutions before pouring.
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Timing by Season/Growth Stage:
- Spring: Focus on nitrogen for active growth.
- Summer: Increase phosphorus/potassium to combat heat/humidity.
- Fall: Reduce nitrogen to prepare for dormancy.
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Balanced Ratios:
- General guideline: N:P:K = 1:1:1. Adjust based on plant needs but avoid over-reliance on single nutrients.
IV. Key Precautions
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Avoid Over-Fertilization:
- Excess nutrients cause weak growth. Follow the "small amounts, frequent applications" principle.
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Safety and Environmental Protection:
- Wear gloves, avoid eye/skin contact, and never dispose of fertilizers in waterways.
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Monitor Plant Response:
- Track changes post-fertilization. Symptoms like yellowing/wilting indicate the need to adjust practices.
By following these steps, you can efficiently provide plants with essential nutrients while minimizing risks. Proper fertilization ensures robust growth, vibrant blooms, and reduced susceptibility to pests/diseases.

