Article by :- Shikhar Dwivedi
Introduction
Fertilizers are arguably the most important input in agriculture. Fertilizers give plants the nutrients they need to grow strong, healthy, and productive. But it isn't merely a matter of "how much" you use—it is equally as much a matter of "when" you do it. Getting the timing of spraying fertilizers precisely right can have a huge impact on nutrient absorption by plants and ultimately on the crop you harvest.
Early Morning is the Best Time
Applying fertilizer in the early morning, preferably between 6 AM and 9 AM, is ideal. The temperature is lower, humidity is greater, and wind speed is likely to be slow at this time. All these conditions enable fertilizer droplets to remain longer on leaves, hence more effective nutrient uptake.
Stay Away from Midday Heat
Fertilizer application in the hottest time of the day (10 AM to 4 PM) is not advisable. In this period, the sun is fiery and temperature becomes intense, causing evaporation or desiccation of fertilizers before plants can utilize them. Leaf scorch may be caused by high temperatures if fertilizer solution is allowed to remain on leaves under the direct sun.
Late Afternoon is a Good Substitute
If an early morning spray is not possible, then late afternoon or early evening (4 PM to 6 PM) is the next best option. Lower temperature and lesser sunlight at this time also reduce evaporation and risk of leaf scorching. Spray too late at night, however, because too much overnight moisture will sometimes increase the chances of fungal disease.
Moisture Allows Absorption
Plants absorb nutrients better when there is a little natural water. Foliar spraying a fertilizer after light watering or rain has the potential to increase uptake. Spray, however, not just prior to heavy rain, because nutrients may be washed away and lost.
Consider Wind Conditions
Wind speed can influence the degree to which the fertilizer solution stays on the plant. Spraying during gusty winds might lead to drift, and therefore waste fertilizer and reduce its effectiveness. Mornings or evenings when there is no wind are better alternatives to ensure the spray hits the target plants directly.
Crop Stage Matters Too
Crop development stage should also guide fertilizer spraying. For example, spraying foliar fertilizers during the vegetative stage allows plants to form robust stems and leaves. Spraying during flowering and fruiting stages allows enhanced fruit and seed development. Optimal time of day and optimal crop stage selection maximize yield.
Conclusion
The best time to spray fertilizer is early morning or late afternoon when it is cool, there is a low wind speed, and plants are better suited to absorb nutrients. Do not spray when it is the hottest part of the sun, consider weather and wind conditions, and pay attention to the growth phase of your crop. If it is done by farmers in this way, they will avoid fertilizer costs, reduce wastage, and most importantly, enjoy a better harvest with healthier crops.
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