Inorganic Fertiliser

Inorganic fertiliser contains nutrients in inorganic, mineral form. These nutrients are already water-soluble and are usually available to plants very quickly after application. Inorganic fertilisers are manufactured industrially or obtained from natural mineral raw materials.

Inorganic fertilisers are typically characterised by a nutrient composition that can be dosed precisely and accurately. They very often contain the primary nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK), frequently in precisely defined ratios.

Inorganic fertilisers are available in various forms:

• ✔ as straight (single-nutrient) or compound (multi-nutrient) fertilisers with a defined nutrient content
• ✔ as granules, powder or liquid fertiliser
• ✔ as a fast-acting, quick-release fertiliser or as a coated slow-release fertiliser

Compared with organic fertiliser, inorganic fertiliser works very quickly, as the nutrients can be taken up directly by plants. This rapid effect is particularly useful in cases of acute nutrient deficiency.

Since inorganic fertilisers do little to promote soil life and nutrients can be leached out if incorrectly dosed, careful application is essential. Adjusting fertiliser application to plants' needs helps supply them with targeted nutrition, without putting unnecessary strain on the soil and the environment.