Fertilizers The term fertilizer refers to commercially manufactured inorganic materials either dry or liquid, which are added to the soil to supply essential plant nutrients. There are different types of fertilizers available. 1. Nitrogenous 2. Phosphatic 3. Potassic 4. Complex and 5. Mixed fertilizers. Simple Fertilizers or Straight Fertilizers Fertilizers containing only one plant nutrient is called as nitrogenous fertilizers – contain ‘N’ alone (eg) urea. Phosphatic fertilizers – contain phosphorus alone (eg) super phosphate. Potassic fertilizers – contain potassium alone (eg) Muriate of potash. Complex Fertilizers Fertilizers are containing two or more primary nutrients (N, P &K). Eg. Di-ammonium phosphate contains N and P nutrient Incomplete Complex Fertilizers Fertilizers containing only two of the primary nutrients are called incomplete complex fertilizers. Mixed Fertilizers Individual straight fertilizer materials are mechanically mixed together to permit application in the field in one operation. They supply two or three major plant nutrients. The percentage of nutrients present in the mixture is expressed as fertilizer grade like 10-5-5 NPK. Micronutrients Plant nutrients required in minute quantities but considered essential are called micronutrients or trace elements or minor elements (eg.) Zinc Sulphate. Basal Application or Basal Dressing Application of fertilizers to the soil entirely or in part of the total requirement at the time of sowing or planting is called basal application. Top Dressing Application of fertilizers to the crop during the growth period in specific stages.