How Controlled Release Fertilizers (CRF) Work
How Controlled Release Fertilizer (CRF) Work
Understanding Controlled Release Fertilizer (CRF)
Controlled Release Fertilizer (CRF) is a type of fertilizer designed to gradually release nutrients into the soil over an extended period. This controlled release allows plants to absorb the nutrients they need consistently, reducing waste and minimizing the risk of nutrient loss through leaching or volatilization. The advantage of CRF is that nutrients are available in the right amount and at the right time, benefiting both the plant and the environment.
The Mechanism of CRF: How Nutrient Release Works
CRFs use a specialized coating around the fertilizer granules to control the release rate of nutrients. There are two main types of coatings used in the industry: sulfur-coated and polymer-coated. This coating regulates the speed at which nutrients are released into the soil and absorbed by the plant roots. The release rate primarily depends on temperature, meaning that during cooler, early growth periods, the nutrient release is slower. As temperatures rise, the release rate increases, which is ideal for peak growth periods.
Sulfur-coated fertilizers have a thin sulfur layer that breaks down due to moisture and microbial activity. This release is temperature and pH-sensitive, which can lead to sudden nutrient spikes if the coating cracks. They’re cost-effective but less predictable, making them best for short-term needs.
Polymer-coated fertilizers, on the other hand, use a durable polymer layer that controls release based on soil temperature. As temperatures rise, nutrients are steadily released, aligning with plant growth. These are unaffected by soil pH and provide a consistent, long-term nutrient supply. However, they are more expensive due to their advanced coating technology, making them ideal for high-value crops needing precise nutrient management.
Here are the key characteristics of our CRF mechanism:
1. Temperature-Dependence: The nutrient release rate of CRF is linked to soil temperature. This means that in warmer seasons, when the plant grows faster and needs more nutrients, the release increases. This prevents the plant from being “overfed” in cooler months and ensures that nutrient availability peaks during growth.
2. No Uncontrolled Release Peaks: The coating prevents sudden nutrient spikes, even during higher temperatures. This keeps nutrients available steadily, with minimal risk of loss due to leaching or volatilization. This is a significant advantage over uncoated fertilizers, which may lose nutrients quickly through runoff or volatilization at high temperatures.
Mivena’s Unique Biodegradable Resin-Polymer Coating: Durable CRF
While both sulfur-coated and traditional polymer-coated fertilizers have their benefits, Mivena has developed an advanced biodegradable polymer coating for its CRF products, offering stable performance and environmental sustainability.
Benefits of Durable CRF Technology for Soil and Enviroment
Durable CRF technology offers more than just controlled nutrient release. It also supports better environmental performance and more efficient nutrient use:
- Eco-Friendly Coating: The coating is fully biodegradable and meets European standards for environmentally friendly fertilization. After its usage period, the coating gradually breaks down without leaving residues harmful to the soil.
- Temperature-Dependent Release: Nutrient release is primarily driven by soil temperature, ensuring that plants receive nutrients when they are most needed during their growth cycle.
- Reduction in Volatilization and Leaching: Because nutrients are released evenly, there is less chance of nitrogen and other elements entering the air or groundwater.
- More Efficient Nutrient Use: With controlled release, the same growth can often be achieved with less fertilizer, reducing both costs and ecological impact.
- Long-Term Efficiency: More than 90% of the nutrients are effectively released within the specified period, with minimal risk of leaching or volatilization.
Product List:
Find here all our CRF products for Turfcare and Horticulture