Storage and storage of winter and spring fertilizers
September 11 08:25:09, 2025
Every winter, farmers often store leftover fertilizers from the previous year or purchase new ones for the upcoming spring season. However, some individuals lack an understanding of the properties of chemical fertilizers and fail to manage them properly, leading to improper storage methods. This not only reduces the effectiveness of the fertilizers but also poses serious safety risks. Different types of fertilizers have unique characteristics—some are acidic or alkaline, others are corrosive or toxic, while some are highly hygroscopic and prone to clumping, and some may be volatile or even flammable and explosive. As spring approaches, it's essential to adjust storage conditions based on the specific properties of each fertilizer type to prevent degradation and maintain efficiency.
It is crucial to store different kinds of chemical fertilizers separately in the warehouse, clearly labeled with their names and chemical compositions. Mixing certain fertilizers can lead to harmful reactions. For example, ammonium-based fertilizers like ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate, ammonium chloride, and ammonia water may lose nitrogen when mixed with alkaline substances such as wood ash, lime, or lime nitrogen. Similarly, nitrate-based fertilizers like ammonium nitrate and sodium nitrate can become moist and decompose when mixed with superphosphate, resulting in the loss of valuable nutrients.
Fertilizers should always be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area to protect them from moisture and water. Most fertilizers are soluble in water, and exposure to humidity can cause them to clump or liquefy, which significantly reduces their effectiveness. Fertilizers like ammonium nitrate and ammonium bicarbonate are highly hygroscopic and can easily dissolve, while others like ammonium sulfate, ammonium chloride, and urea tend to form hard blocks when exposed to moisture. This not only affects their quality but also makes application difficult. When storing, avoid damaging the packaging, do not leave them outdoors where they can be exposed to rain, snow, or direct sunlight, and keep them off the ground by placing them on wooden boards. Do not stack the same type of fertilizer higher than 0.3 meters above the floor.
Additionally, fertilizers should be stored in a cool and dark place. Nitrogen-based fertilizers are sensitive to heat, and high temperatures can cause nitrogen to convert into ammonia and escape, reducing their effectiveness. Ammonium nitrate, in particular, is highly flammable and explosive. It must never be stored near flammable materials such as gasoline, alcohol, or sulfur to prevent dangerous accidents. Proper storage practices are essential for both the preservation of fertilizer quality and the safety of the storage environment.