What is the difference between controlled-release fertilizer and slow-release fertilizer?Explain the types of fertilizers and how to apply them!
Controlled-release fertilizers and slow-release fertilizers are both fertilizers, but they release nutrients differently and at different rates. Controlled-release fertilizer refers to the release of nutrients in fertilizer to plants at a controllable rate through special techniques and formulations to meet the needs of plantsSlow-release fertilizer refers to the release of nutrients in fertilizer to plants at a slower rate to prolong the nutrient ** time and reduce nutrient waste. Below, I will introduce the principles, advantages and disadvantages of these two fertilizers, and when they are suitable for use.
First of all, the principle of controlled-release fertilizer is to add a special coating agent to the fertilizer particles by physical or chemical methods, or to form a barrier film on the surface of the fertilizer particles through microorganisms, so as to regulate the release rate of nutrients. This barrier film can control the rate of nutrient release based on environmental factors (such as soil temperature, humidity, etc.) and the needs of the plant.
Slow-release fertilizers, on the other hand, release nutrients from the fertilizer to plants at a slower rate. Generally speaking, the granules of slow-release fertilizers contain a certain amount of soluble fertilizers and substances such as shells and sulfur, which will gradually dissolve and release nutrients as soil moisture changes. Slow-release fertilizers are released at a slower rate and can continue to provide nutrients to plants for weeks or even months.
Controlled-release and slow-release fertilizers have their pros and cons. The advantage of controlled-release fertilizer is that the release rate of nutrients can be adjusted according to the needs of plants and environmental conditions, avoiding the problem of over-fertilization or insufficient nutrients, thereby reducing fertilizer waste and environmental pollution. In addition, controlled-release fertilizers can also improve nutrient use efficiency, allowing plants to absorb and utilize nutrients more efficiently. However, controlled-release fertilizers are relatively expensive and may not meet the immediate needs of plants in some specific situations.
The advantage of slow-release fertilizer is that it is released slowly, which can prolong the nutrient cycle and reduce the number of frequent fertilizationAt the same time, slow-release fertilizer can also reduce nutrient leaching and volatilization loss, and improve fertilizer utilization efficiency. However, slow-release fertilizers also have some drawbacks, such as the uncontrollable release rate and the fact that they cannot be adjusted according to plant needs and environmental conditions;At the same time, slow-release fertilizers have a limited amount of nutrients** and may not be able to meet the needs of certain crops or specific growth stages.
From the application situation, controlled-release fertilizers are mainly suitable for crops with relatively precise nutrient requirements, such as trees and vegetables. They can adjust the rate at which fertilizers are released according to the growth rate and needs of the crop to meet the nutrient needs of the crop at various stages of growth. Slow-release fertilizers are suitable for crops with a long growing season, such as arable crops (corn, wheat, etc.) and lawns, which can reduce the number of frequent fertilization and improve fertilization efficiency.
In conclusion, controlled-release fertilizers and slow-release fertilizers differ in nutrient release rates and nutrient delivery methods. Controlled-release fertilizers can adjust the rate of nutrient release based on plant needs and environmental conditions, while slow-release fertilizers release nutrients at a slower rate. Both fertilizers have their own advantages and application situations that must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and properly fertilized in combination with the needs of the crop and soil conditions.