Nitrogen Loss

THE PROBLEM: NITROGEN LOSS

Nitrogen loss can be a serious problem impacting yield potential and return on investment. Depending on the soil type, nitrogen fertilizer is susceptible to losing more than 50% of its nitrogen through ammonia volatilization, denitrification and nitrate leaching.

the Nitrogen Cycle

The process of keeping nitrogen available to nourish your crops is complicated. Variables such as weather, soil type and soil microbe population can all have an impact on how nitrogen can be lost. This diagram illustrates how nitrogen is made available for plants as well as the various mechanisms for loss.

AMMONIA VOLATILIZATION

This occurs when the soil’s urease enzymes break the urea molecules into ammonia gas. Up to 40% of surface-applied urea-based nitrogen not incorporated into the soil via rainfall, irrigation or deep mechanical incorporation can be lost through volatilization. This type of loss can occur with every soil type.

NITRATE LEACHING

This form of nitrogen loss happens when negatively charged nitrate is moved below the plant’s root zone by percolating water. Leaching is most common in sandy soils.

DENITRIFICATION

This form of nitrogen loss occurs when nitrate nitrogen is converted back to gaseous forms. The nitrogen diffuses out of the soil and is lost into the atmosphere. Denitrification occurs in soils that are poorly drained or become waterlogged.

THE SOLUTION: ENHANCED EFFICIENCY FERTILIZERS

At Koch Agronomic Services we’re proud to be part of the solution. We have products that have been scientifically proven to minimize all three forms of loss. From advanced urease and nitrification inhibitors to slow- and controlled-release fertilizers, Koch Agronomic Services is committed to delivering exceptional value to growers through a combination of innovative, effective products and outstanding service.

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