PO 34. Describe advantages and limitations of the following fertilizer placement methods.

Surface broadcast is a method by which fertilizer is applied on the surface across an entire field. High capacity fertilizer spreaders are often used which spin dry fertilizer or spray liquid fertilizer on the soil surface or on a growing crop.

• Advantages: fast, economical
• Disadvantages: high nutrient losses, low uniformity
• P efficiency is only 1/3 to ¼ that of banding

Broadcast incorporated improves on the efficiency of surface application by incorporating fertilizer through plowing or disking.  Plowing is considered better in terms of nutrient availability, as it creates a nutrient-rich zone a few inches below soil surface (where developing plant roots can absorb it).

• Advantages: reduces losses compared to broadcast, improves plant uptake
• Disadvantages: slow, non-uniform application, erosion risk