top of page

CROP NUTRITION

PHOSPHATE'S ROLE

 

 

Phosphorous is essential to many plant functions and structures, however, finding an organically certified phosphorus source can be difficult since traditional phosphorus sources like DAP and MAP are not allowed on organic farms. Phosphorus performs a key role in photosynthesis, nutrient transport and energy transfer. Adding phosphorous-rich fertilizer to soil promotes root growth, higher crop yields and early crop maturation. It is a vital player in agricultural success to improve both fertility and production. 

Crop nutrition is evaluated by the individual elements required by the plant including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, carbon, sulphur, hydrogen and others. The element phosphorous is essential to all life forms and is a vital component of all plant structures with a key role in the following.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Photosynthesis

  • Plant Oxygenation

  • Seed and food production

  • Energy production, storage and transfer

  • Cell divison and enlargement

Title. Double click me.

PHOSPHATE'S ENHANCEMENT

The fertility and availability of arable land for crop growth has decreased substantially due to the pressures to maintain global crop requirements. Between the years of 1985- 2000, an alarming 285 million acres of the available 1500 million acres of arable land was lost. To counteract the devastating drop of rich soil, it has become necessary to add various amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium to improve productivity. When phosphatic fertilizers are added to soil, only a portion of the phosphorus is taken up immediately by the plant root; the remainder becomes adsorbed into soil particles. Where the initial absorption is weak, the phosphorus can transfer back into the soil for enhanced cultivation and stronger crop production over the years. Enriching soil with phosphorus benefits crop yields, making them invariably larger and healthier than those achieved on soils without the necessary level of phosphorous. An adequate supply of phosphorous fertilizer enhances the following:

 

  • Early root formation and growth

  • Greater flowering and seed production

  • Fruit, vegetable and grain quality

  • Better growth in cold temperatures

  • Water use efficiency

  • Early maturation of fruit and grain

bottom of page