Types of

Fertilisers

Contain only one primary nutrient (N, P, or K)

• Targeted nutrient correction
• Useful for addressing specific deficiencies
• Requires precise application to avoid imbalances

Single Nutrient

or

Multi-nutient

Contain a balanced mix of NPK plus additional nutrients

• Comprehensive nutrient supply
• Convenient for overall plant health
• Reduces the need for multiple fertilization products.

Derived from natural sources like compost and manure

• Enhance soil health and structure
• Release nutrients gradually
• Environmentally friendly

Organic

or

Synthetic

Chemically manufactured for precise nutrient content

• Quick nutrient availability
• Customizable formulations
• High nutrient concentration.

Nourish plants gradually over an extended period

• Quick nutrient availability
• Customizable formulations
• High nutrient concentration.

Slow Release

or

Quick Release

Provide rapid nutrient availability to plants

• Fast-acting for immediate results
• Convenient for addressing nutrient deficiencies
• Requires careful application to avoid overuse

Solid, granulated form for slow and controlled release

• Uniform nutrient distribution
• Long-lasting effect
• Suitable for various soil types

Granular

or

Liquid

Formulated in liquid form for easy application

• Quick absorption by plant roots
• Ideal for foliar feeding
• Requires frequent application

Fertilisers

Application methods

Broadcasting

Even spreading of fertilizer over the soil surface

• Uniform nutrient distribution
• Suitable for large areas
• Require more fertilizer

Banding

Concentrated application in bands along rows or plant beds

• Targeted nutrient delivery to plant roots
• Reduces fertilizer use, minimizing waste
• Ideal for row crops and precision farming

Foliar spraying

Application of fertilizer directly to plant leaves

• Rapid nutrient absorption through leaf surfaces
• Effective for addressing nutrient deficiencies
• Requires careful timing to avoid leaf burn

Fertigation

Fertilizer mixed with irrigation water delivered directly to plant roots

• Precise nutrient delivery to root zones
• Water-efficient and reduces nutrient runoff
• Requires specialized equipment

Soil Injection

Fertilizer injected directly into the soil

• Targets the root zone for efficient nutrient uptake
• Minimizes nutrient loss to the environment
• Suitable for established plants and trees

Topdressing

Application of fertilizer on the soil surface around plants

• Additional nutrient supply during the growing season
• Minimizes soil disturbance
• Effective for established crops

Fertiliser

Technology

Enhancing Agricultural Efficiency and Sustainability
Fertiliser technology represents a pivotal advancement in modern agriculture, revolutionizing the way we nourish crops and optimize yields.

2.15
Metric Tonnes

Fertilisers used/hectare of arable land in Malaysia in 2021

(Source: World Bank collection of development indicators)

5.86
Billion (RM)

Sales of manufactured fertilisers in Malaysia in 2022

(Source: World Bank collection of development indicators)

Technology Description Key Characteristics
Controlled-Release Technology Granules coated to release nutrients gradually over time. • Extended nutrient availability
• Reduces the risk of over-fertilization
• Ideal for sustained plant growth with fewer applications.
Precision Agriculture Technology Use of GPS and sensors for precise fertilizer application. • Targeted nutrient delivery based on soil and crop conditions
• Optimizes fertilizer use efficiency
• Reduces environmental impact
Smart Fertilizers Incorporate technologies like sensors and microprocessors. • Monitor soil conditions in real-time
• Release nutrients based on plant needs
• Enhances nutrient use efficiency.
Nano-fertilizers Fertilizer particles at the nanoscale for improved nutrient absorption. • Increased nutrient uptake by plants
• Reduces nutrient leaching and environmental impact
• Requires careful application due to concentrated nature.
Effective Microorganism Fertilizers Utilize living microorganisms to enhance nutrient availability. • Improve soil structure and microbial activity
• Provide a sustainable approach to fertilization
• Enhances plant resilience to diseases.
Variable Rate Fertilizer Spreaders Mechanized equipment for precise and efficient fertilizer application. • Ensures uniform coverage
• Reduces labor and time for large-scale operations
• Can be integrated with precision agriculture technologies.

The Triple Threat of

Nitrogen Fertilizers

Synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, contribute to climate change in three key ways.

THREAT 1

Microbes in the soil convert nitrogen fertilizer into nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas that also damages the ozone layer.

THREAT 2

Rain and irrigation runoff can wash nutrients from fertilizer and livestock manure into waterways, where they feed algae blooms that produce methane (CH4), another greenhouse gas.

THREAT 3

Manufacturing nitrogen fertilizer is energy-intensive. It uses natural gas or other hydrocarbons and releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions in the process.