Reducing fertiliser application with localised nitrogen fertilizer injection at seeding for arable crops

This practice abstract presents a localized nitrogen fertilization technique for arable crops, where nitrogen fertilizer is placed close to the seed during sowing.

Key benefits:

• Improves nitrogen use efficiency.

• Reduces nitrogen losses through volatilization, leaching, and runoff.

• Supports weed management by supplying nutrients directly to the crop rather than the entire soil surface.

• Reduces environmental impacts associated with nitrogen fertilization.

Implementation:

• Nitrogen can be placed in the seed furrow, below the seed line, between crop rows, or above the seed line.

• The placement strategy depends on fertilizer type, crop requirements, toxicity risks, and technical feasibility.

• Existing seed drills can often be equipped with fertilizer placement systems.

Results:

• Tests on sugar beet showed that localized nitrogen application at sowing can reduce nitrogen fertilizer use by 30–50% compared with conventional fertilization practices.

• The technology can contribute to lower production costs while maintaining crop nutrition and performance.