How to Choose the Right Fertilizer for Your Crops

Understanding fertilizer selection is key to maximizing your crop yields while minimizing costs. Here's everything you need to know.

## Understanding NPK Numbers The numbers on fertilizer bags (e.g., 17:17:17) indicate: - First number: Nitrogen (N) - for leaf growth - Second number: Phosphorus (P) - for root development - Third number: Potassium (K) - for overall plant health

Fertilizers for Different Growth Stages

### At Planting (Basal Application) DAP (18:46:0) - High phosphorus for root establishment - Apply 50kg per acre in planting furrow

NPK 23:23:0 - Balanced N and P - Good for poor soils

### Top Dressing CAN (26:0:0) - Pure nitrogen for vegetative growth - Apply 4-6 weeks after planting

Urea (46:0:0) - Highest nitrogen content - More economical but volatile

## Soil Testing is Key Before applying any fertilizer: - Get your soil tested at KALRO or private labs - Results will show nutrient deficiencies - Customize fertilizer application accordingly

## Application Methods - Band application: More efficient - Broadcasting: For large areas - Foliar feeding: Quick nutrient uptake

## Common Mistakes to Avoid - Applying fertilizer on dry soil - Over-application (can burn crops) - Using wrong fertilizer type - Poor timing of application