Question

Write two disadvantages of broadcasting method of fertilizer application.

Hint:

Tip: Use proper timing and splitting of fertilizer doses to reduce losses in broadcasting.

Answer 1

Broadcasting is a common method of applying fertilizers by spreading them uniformly over the soil surface.
However, it has some notable disadvantages:
1. Low nutrient use efficiency: When fertilizers are broadcasted, a significant portion may be lost due to surface runoff, volatilization, or leaching.
This leads to wastage of fertilizers and increases the cost of cultivation without proportionate benefits to crops.
2. Uneven distribution: Broadcasting may not ensure uniform placement of nutrients near the plant root zone.
As a result, some plants may receive excess nutrients while others get insufficient amounts, leading to uneven crop growth.
Due to these disadvantages, placement methods like banding or side-dressing are often preferred for better efficiency.