After the busy farming season, farmers and agricultural stores often have leftover fertilizers. If these fertilizers are stored for a long time, will their effectiveness be compromised?
The answer depends on the type of fertilizer and storage conditions. As long as they are stored properly—protected from damage, moisture, and exposure to alkaline substances—most fertilizers can remain effective for long periods. For example, fertilizers like urea, superphosphate, and potassium sulfate can be stored in a cool, dry warehouse for up to 20 years with no change in nutrient content, aside from potential caking.
Storage Characteristics of Common Fertilizers:
Ammonium Bicarbonate: Loses Weight, Not Effectiveness
Ammonium bicarbonate is stable at low temperatures and can be safely stored during winter, especially when prices are lower in preparation for spring planting.However, at high temperatures (above 30°C), it volatilizes, leading to weight loss. Therefore, during summer storage, make sure to seal the bag tightly to prevent moisture, although its effectiveness remains unchanged.
Urea: Loses Weight, Not Effectiveness
Urea can be stored for a long time in dry conditions without losing its nutrients. However, at temperatures above 122°C, urea decomposes and loses weight through volatilization.
Additionally, urea is prone to dissolving and being washed away in humid environments, so it is crucial to store it in a dry place.
Superphosphate: Stable, but Must Be Protected from Rain
Superphosphate is generally stable, but its effectiveness can significantly decrease if exposed to rain. Additionally, if stored for more than a year, the calcium carbonate in superphosphate may gradually convert into insoluble forms like iron and aluminum phosphates, reducing its effectiveness. Therefore, it is recommended to use superphosphate within a year of storage.
Potassium Chloride and Potassium Sulfate: Highly Stable
Both potassium chloride and potassium sulfate are very stable compounds. Even if they absorb moisture and form lumps, breaking them up for application will not affect their effectiveness. However, always calculate the application rate based on dry weight.
Diammonium Phosphate: Sensitive to High Temperatures
Diammonium phosphate can gradually convert to monoammonium phosphate at high temperatures (above 30°C), with some ammonia volatilizing. Ensure the bags are tightly sealed to prevent this loss.
Ferrous Sulfate: Prone to Deterioration
Ferrous sulfate is a strong oxidizer and easily absorbs moisture, turning into ferric sulfate, which is less effective and cannot be absorbed by crops. Keep it dry to maintain its effectiveness.
Microbial Fertilizers: Expire After a Certain Time
The active microorganisms in bio-fertilizers have a limited lifespan, typically up to two years under proper storage conditions. These fertilizers must be kept in a cool (4°C-10°C), dry, and well-ventilated area away from light.
Expired bio-fertilizers should not be used, as they lose their effectiveness. Always check the expiration date and storage conditions before use.
Tips for Proper Fertilizer Storage:
Prevent Moisture and Humidity:
Fertilizers like ammonium bicarbonate and ammonium nitrate are prone to absorbing moisture and caking. Store them in a dry place and seal the packaging to minimize exposure to air.
Avoid High Temperatures and Sunlight:
Nitrogen fertilizers can lose effectiveness when exposed to heat and sunlight, so store them in a cool, shaded area and keep them away from fire sources.
Prevent Volatilization:
Fertilizers such as ammonium water and ammonium bicarbonate can easily volatilize. Ensure they are sealed properly and do not store them with alkaline substances like lime.
Prevent Corrosion and Toxicity:
Certain fertilizers, like superphosphate, are corrosive to metals. Avoid contact with skin or metal tools and store them in ceramic, plastic, or wooden containers. Fertilizers should not be stored with seeds, as they can affect seed germination.
Conclusion:
Proper storage of fertilizers not only preserves their effectiveness but also prevents unnecessary losses. Whether for farmers or agricultural suppliers, scientific and careful storage ensures efficient crop growth in the coming seasons.
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