Types of Fertilizers Used in Agriculture: Guide to Better Yields

Fertilizers are essential for healthy crops and good yields but not all fertilizers are the same. Using the right type at the right time can make all the difference in your farm’s productivity. In this guide, we break down the main types of fertilizers used in Indian agriculture, how they work, and when to use them based on real farming experience.

Whether you're a small farmer or managing a large acreage, understanding fertilizers can help you make better, more cost-effective decisions.

Table of Contents

• 1. What Are Fertilizers?
• 2. Major Types of Fertilizers Used in Agriculture
  • 2.1 Chemical (Synthetic) Fertilizers
  • 2.2 Organic Fertilizers
  • 2.3 Biofertilizers
• 3. Which Fertilizer Is Best for Your Crop?
• 4. Fertilizer Usage Tips for Indian Conditions
• 5. FAQs
   

1. What Are Fertilizers?

Fertilizers are substances added to soil or crops to supply essential nutrients like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). They help in:

• Faster plant growth
• Higher yields
• Improved soil fertility

But too much or the wrong kind of fertilizer can damage your soil, waste money, and reduce productivity over time. So let’s understand the types.

2. Major Types of Fertilizers Used in Agriculture

Fertilizers can be classified into three main categories:

2.1 Chemical (Synthetic) Fertilizers

These are lab-made and give quick results. They contain high concentrations of nutrients.

Common Types:

• Urea (46% Nitrogen) – Most widely used in India for rice, wheat, and sugarcane
• DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) – Provides both N and P; ideal during sowing
• MOP (Muriate of Potash) – High in potassium; good for fruits and vegetables
• NPK Blends (e.g., 10:26:26) – Balanced mix, used depending on crop requirement

Pros:

• Fast action
• Easy to apply
• High yield boost

Cons:

• Can reduce soil health long-term
• Risk of overuse

Case Example: Punjab wheat farmers use Urea + DAP combo for fast vegetative growth and grain development.
 

2.2 Organic Fertilizers

These are made from natural materials like compost, cow dung, and plant residues.

Types:

• Farmyard Manure (FYM) – Cow dung and waste; improves soil texture
• Vermicompost – Decomposed with earthworms; nutrient-rich
• Green Manure – Plants like dhaincha are grown and plowed into the soil
• Oil Cakes – Residues from mustard or groundnut oil extraction

Pros:

• Improves soil health and water retention
• Eco-friendly and cheap (often made on-farm)

Cons:

• Slower nutrient release
• Needs large quantities

Example: In Maharashtra, organic papaya growers use vermicompost + neem cake to increase fruit sweetness and shelf life.

2.3 Biofertilizers

These are microbial fertilizers they contain live bacteria or fungi that help plants absorb nutrients.

Popular Types:

• Rhizobium – For legumes like moong and soybean
• Azospirillum – Nitrogen fixer for cereals
• Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) – Makes soil phosphorus available
• Trichoderma – Also protects roots from fungal diseases

Pros:

• Boosts soil biology
• Reduces chemical fertilizer need
• Very affordable

Cons:

• Requires proper storage
• Results vary with climate and soil

Tip: Mix biofertilizers with compost or FYM for better root absorption.

3. Which Fertilizer Is Best for Your Crop?

It depends on:

• Soil test results – Always test before fertilizing
• Crop stage – Vegetative vs flowering vs fruiting
• Irrigation method – Some fertilizers work better in drip systems
• Budget and availability – Organic options are cheap if made locally

Crop	Ideal Fertilizers	Notes
Rice	Urea + DAP + Green manure	Use biofertilizers in flooded fields
Wheat	Urea + MOP	Add FYM to improve structure
Sugarcane	NPK + Organic + Biofertilizers	High nutrient demand crop
Vegetables	Vermicompost + PSB + Foliar NPK	Use in split doses
Pulses	Rhizobium + FYM	Avoid overuse of nitrogen

 

4. Fertilizer Usage Tips for Indian Conditions

Soil Testing: Do this once every 2-3 years through KVK or local agri offices
Split Application: Don’t apply all fertilizer at once; use in stages
Right Time: Urea is best applied after irrigation
Weather Awareness: Avoid application just before heavy rains
Mixing Bio and Organic: Boosts plant health naturally

Pro Tip: Use neem-coated urea to reduce nitrogen loss.

The best fertilizer is not the most expensive one it’s the one that matches your crop’s need and soil condition. Indian agriculture is diverse, and so are the solutions. By understanding the types of fertilizers and using them wisely, you can improve crop yields, reduce costs, and keep your soil healthy for the next generation.