Fertilizers for the cultivation of winter grains

Cereals, depending on the stage of development they are in, have the corresponding needs in the three basic macronutrients. The cultivation of winter cereals requires the correct application of basic fertilization in order to ensure the coverage of their nutritional needs and their excellent growth. The use of fertilizers with sufficiency in these elements is fundamental to increase production, achieve high yields and improve quality.The three main macronutrients are Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K).

The role of Nitrogen
Nitrogen (N) affects more than any other macronutrient the yields per hectare and the quality of the production. Its availability is essential throughout the biological cycle. Only in this way will we ensure the proper establishment of the culture and the formation of the vegetative organs. Nitrogen is also a structural component of the chlorophyll molecule and proteins. In addition, it favors the intake and utilization of other nutrients. Grain requirements are from 10 to 15 units of Nitrogen per hectare, which is applied at a ratio of 1/3 during basic fertilization with incorporation, while the remaining 2/3 is used during surface fertilization, with one or two applications. Agrohellas’ proposal for soils with a relative sufficiency of Phosphorus (P) is NP 25-15, NP 30-15, and NP 36-16. These types are suitable to supply the plants with Nitrogen from the first stages of growth to the twinning stage.

The role of Phosphorus
The next key macronutrient is Phosphorus (P), which decisively affects the robustness of plants, the development of the root system and the increase of plants’ resistance to low temperatures and tilting. Phosphorus also plays an important role in metabolism, in the formation of carbohydrates and acts as an energy carrier. The requirements of the grains in Phosphorus are from 3 to 5 units per hectare. The entire amount is applied during the basic fertilization with incorporation. Agrohellas’ proposal for soils that are deficient in Phosphorus and need to be supplemented are NP 13-34, NP 18-46 (DAP) and NP 16-20 +30S03. In these types of fertilizers the Phosphorus is highly water soluble (>93%) and the Nitrogen (N) is in 100% ammonium form, thus reducing leaching.

The role of potassium
The third essential macronutrient is Potassium (K), which plays an important role in the synthesis of sugars and starches, as well as in the transport of carbohydrates. Potassium regulates the opening-closing of the leaf stomata and the intensity of respiration, thereby improving the use of water (Water Use Efficiency – WUE). The requirements of the grains in Potassium are from 3 to 5 units per hectare. The Greek soils have sufficient potassium, so its application during the basic fertilization is done where it is deemed necessary. Agrohellas’ proposal is NPK 15-15-15 (MOP), which is capable of meeting the needs of all three macronutrients.

Foliar applications with the types of fertilizers 20-20-20 +TE and 16-8-24 +2MgO+TE showed spectacular results in nutrient deficiency phenomena and in the general increase of quality characteristics and yield.

For all the above fertilizers, Agrohellas has CE certification, in accordance with the requirements of the new Regulation 1009/2019 (FPR) of the European Union for safe and effective fertilizer products.