Fertilizer application technology is expected to improve
July 06 10:15:39, 2025
Recently, the findings of the "Study on the Methods of Soil Nutrient Supply Strength and Proportional Fertilization Theory" conducted by the Shanxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences in collaboration with Nanjing Agricultural University have successfully passed expert evaluation. This groundbreaking research has challenged the long-held international belief that adding more fertilizers no longer leads to increased crop yields. The study offers practical guidance for improving fertilizer application techniques and is expected to contribute significantly to future food production growth.
Currently, some experts argue that the potential of chemical fertilizers has reached a plateau, suggesting that further application will not boost yield. However, Qi Qinghe, the project leader from the Shanxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, conducted extensive field experiments and found that crop yield depends not only on the quantity of fertilizer used but also on the balance and proportion of nutrients applied. He emphasized that soil nutrient composition plays a crucial role in determining the optimal fertilization ratio. For each crop variety, there is an ideal amount of fertilizer beyond which additional application may harm the plants rather than increase yield.
Based on this new fertilization theory, Qi tested various crops such as corn, wheat, rice, tobacco, and potatoes across different soil types—low nitrogen and high phosphorus, low phosphorus and high nitrogen, low nitrogen and phosphorus, and high phosphorus with low potassium. The results showed a significant improvement in yield, with an average increase of about 30% across all tested crops. This promising approach could revolutionize modern agricultural practices and help address global food security challenges.
The success of this research highlights the importance of understanding soil health and adopting precision farming techniques. By tailoring fertilizer use to specific soil conditions and crop needs, farmers can maximize productivity while minimizing environmental impact. As the world faces increasing demands for food production, this innovative method offers a sustainable and effective solution for the future of agriculture.