Nitrogen is one of the most essential nutrients for plant growth, directly influencing leaf development, photosynthesis, and yield potential. However, applying nitrogen fertilizer correctly is just as important as choosing the right product. Whether you’re working with large field crops, specialty horticulture, or high-value produce, the method you choose — broadcast, side-dress, or foliar feeding — impacts nutrient availability, efficiency, and profitability.
Premium nitrogen solutions like SULPHOMIN, CALCIMAG, and Ugarit Cereal from yarafert provide flexibility for different application techniques, ensuring your crops get the nitrogen they need, when they need it.
Broadcast nitrogen fertilizer: when and how to use it
Broadcasting involves spreading nitrogen fertilizer evenly across the entire field surface, either before planting (pre-plant broadcasting) or during the growing season (top-dressing). This method ensures nutrients are available across the root zone, making it suitable for cereals, pasture, and high-acreage crops.
When to use broadcast nitrogen fertilizer:
- Pre-plant incorporation: Ideal for large field preparation using SULPHOMIN (45% N) to supply high nitrogen levels before sowing.
- Early top-dressing: Applying Ugarit 27-27-27 + TE during early vegetative stages to support uniform canopy growth.
Key steps for effective broadcasting:
- Calibrate the spreader – Ensure even application across the field.
- Consider timing with rainfall or irrigation – Moisture moves nitrogen into the root zone.
- Avoid windy days – Reduces uneven coverage and nitrogen loss.
| Product Example | N Content | Best Use in Broadcasting |
|---|---|---|
| SULPHOMIN | 45% | Pre-plant, top-dress |
| CALCIMAG | 15% | For crops needing extra calcium |
| Ugarit 27-27-27 + TE | 27% | Balanced NPK for early growth |
READ MORE: Best Time to Apply Nitrogen Fertilizer for Maximum Yield: A Complete Guide
Side-dressing nitrogen fertilizer for row crops
Side-dressing delivers nitrogen fertilizer in bands alongside growing plants, targeting the active root zone. This method is especially effective for row crops like maize, sugar beet, and vegetables, where nitrogen demand increases during mid-growth.
Advantages of side-dressing:
- Reduces nitrogen loss from volatilization and leaching.
- Places nutrients where roots can access them quickly.
- Allows split applications for better nutrient management.
For example, applying CALCIMAG mid-season provides both nitrogen and calcium, improving fruit quality in tomatoes or peppers. Similarly, Ugarit Cereal (15% N + Cu) supports grain development while preventing micronutrient deficiencies.
Best practices for side-dressing:
- Apply during periods of rapid vegetative growth (often 3–6 weeks after emergence).
- Use precise application tools to avoid damaging plants.
- Combine with irrigation (fertigation) when possible for increased efficiency.
Foliar feeding with nitrogen fertilizer explained
Foliar feeding involves applying nitrogen fertilizer directly to plant leaves, allowing rapid absorption through the leaf cuticle and stomata. This method is ideal for correcting nutrient deficiencies quickly or supplementing soil applications.
Why foliar feeding works well:
- Nitrogen in liquid form, such as Biofast (12% N with humic and fulvic acids), is absorbed faster than through soil uptake.
- It bypasses soil conditions that may restrict nutrient availability, like high pH or compaction.
- Ideal for high-value crops like strawberries, grapes, and vegetables needing a mid-season nutrient boost.
Tips for effective foliar nitrogen feeding:
- Spray during cool, calm hours (early morning or late afternoon).
- Use recommended dilution rates to prevent leaf burn.
- Combine with micronutrients for a broader nutrient profile, such as SULFOMIX with iron, zinc, and manganese.
READ MORE: Volatilization, Leaching & Denitrification: Nitrogen Loss Mechanisms Explained
Equipment needed for each nitrogen fertilizer method
Choosing the right application equipment is crucial for maximizing nitrogen fertilizer efficiency. Here’s an overview based on method:
Broadcasting:
- Tractor-mounted or self-propelled spreaders.
- Air-assisted spreaders for large areas.
- Calibration trays for checking spread patterns.
Side-dressing:
- Row applicators with adjustable knives or coulters.
- Fertigation systems for irrigation lines.
- Drip systems for precise band placement.
Foliar feeding:
- Backpack or boom sprayers for uniform leaf coverage.
- High-pressure nozzles for fine droplet formation.
- Mixing tanks for liquid blends like Biofast or Ugarit DKP.
| Method | Main Equipment | Compatible Yarafert Products |
|---|---|---|
| Broadcast | Spreader | SULPHOMIN, CALCIMAG |
| Side-dress | Row applicator | Ugarit Cereal, CALCIMAG |
| Foliar | Sprayer | Biofast, SULFOMIX |
Choosing the right method for nitrogen fertilizer efficiency
Selecting the most effective method for applying nitrogen fertilizer depends on crop type, soil condition, weather, and growth stage.
- Broadcasting suits pre-plant or early growth stages for wide coverage crops like wheat or rice.
- Side-dressing is better for row crops needing nitrogen boosts at specific growth stages.
- Foliar feeding provides quick correction of deficiencies or supplements during stress conditions.
For example:
- SULPHOMIN offers a high nitrogen concentration for broadcast top-dressing before rainfall.
- CALCIMAG works well in side-dressing where both nitrogen and calcium are required.
- Biofast is an excellent foliar choice for immediate nutrient availability with organic matter benefits.
Factors influencing your choice:
- Nutrient mobility in soil – Nitrogen is mobile; timing is crucial to match crop uptake.
- Weather patterns – Heavy rains can leach nitrogen; consider split applications.
- Crop nutrient demand curve – Match application timing to peak nitrogen demand.
Final thoughts
Applying nitrogen fertilizer efficiently is more than just spreading nutrients — it’s about timing, placement, and matching the right product to the right method. By understanding when to broadcast, side-dress, or foliar feed, you can boost yield, minimize losses, and improve return on investment.
With the range of yarafert nitrogen solutions — from high-analysis SULPHOMIN to multi-nutrient blends like Biofast and specialized formulations such as Ugarit Cereal — farmers have the tools to adapt their fertilization strategy to each crop’s needs.
Ready to maximize your nitrogen fertilizer efficiency?
Explore our full portfolio of yarafert solutions, or contact our agronomy specialists for tailored advice. Whether your fields need a broadcast boost, precise side-dressing, or rapid foliar recovery, we’ll help you choose the perfect product and method to get the job done right.
READ MORE: Understanding Nitrogen Fertilizer Efficiency Coefficients (NUE)