VISVESVARAYA TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY

“Jnana Sangama”, Belagavi-590018

Report
on
Research Methodology and IPR
[BRMK557]
Topic: Importance of fertilizers in agriculture
Submitted by
Prasanna kumar C N (1DT22EC070)
Under the Mentoring of
BHARATH K N
Asst. Prof, Dept. of E&CE,
DSATM, Bengaluru

Signature of Mentor

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

Accredited by NBA, New Delhi.
DAYANANDA SAGAR ACADEMY OF TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT
Accredited by NAAC with Grade A+
Udayapura, Kanakapura Road, Bengaluru-560082
2023-2024
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter No. Content Page No.

1. Introduction 1

2. Types of Fertilizers 2-5

2.1 Organic Fertilizers

2.2 Inorganic (Synthetic) Fertilizers
2.3 Biofertilizers

3. Importance of Fertilizers in Agriculture 6

3.1 Enhancing Soil Fertility

3.2 Boosting Crop Yields
3.3 Improving Crop Quality
3.4 Supporting Sustainable Agriculture

4. Advantages and Disadvantages of Fertilizers 7

4.1 Advantages of Fertilizers

4.2 Disadvantages of Fertilizers

5. Conclusion 8
 LIST OF FIGURES
Fig. No. Name of the figure Page No.
1.1 Fertilizer 1

2.1 Organic fertilizer 3

2.2 Inorganic fertilizer 4

2.3 Bio fertilizer 5

3.1 Crop yield improvement 6

4.1 Presentation 8
 Research Methodology and IPR[BRMK557] ` 2023-2024

1. INTRODUCTION
Introductions Every living organism requires nutrients for their growth and other metabolic
activities. For their survival, they follow a mode of nutrition [1, 12]. We humans and animals depend on
plants for nutrients. Plants have an autotrophic mode of nutrition where they prepare their own food and
obtain their nutrients via photosynthesis [13]. The soil is not fertile enough to provide essential macro and
micronutrients to plants in sufficient quantity. Hence they need another source of nutrition. Manures and
fertilizers are the alternatives used in agriculture for this purpose [23]. Manures are the natural source of
nutrients obtained from cow dung, leaves, human excreta, and other wastes. Fertilizers are commercial
products available in different forms like solid, gas or liquid. Both manure and fertilizers contain salts and
organic chemicals which consist of essential plant nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus in
known concentrations [14]. They make soil fertile and provide nutrients to plants for better growth and
higher yield. Unlike manures, fertilizers are very expensive and are used in large amounts in farming fields.
As a part of crop production management, farmers largely depend on fertilizer. But they should only be
used when it’s necessary. Manure should not be replaced by fertilizer as constant use of it may lead to
infertility of soil and pollution. During over-irrigation, fertilizers get washed along with excess water and
are unavailable for absorption by plants which cause water pollution. Also, replenishment of organic
substances in the soil get affected and microbes will be harmed due to clogging of fertilizers in the soil.
Sometimes fertilizers cause various plant diseases. Therefore, the amount and frequency of their use need
to be checked and controlled. It should always be optimum [17]. Due to these disadvantages, nowadays
organic farming is much preferred over fertilizer. Organic farming is a new method of farming where crops
are grown with the help of natural compost.

Fig. No 1.1 Fertilizers

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 Research Methodology and IPR[BRMK557] ` 2023-2024

2.Types of Fertilizers

• Organic Fertilizers
• Inorganic (Synthetic) Fertilizers
• Biofertilizers

2.1 Organic Fertilizers

Organic fertilizers are derived from natural sources such as plants, animals, and minerals,
offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic fertilizers. These fertilizers provide essential
nutrients to plants and improve soil health in ways that are environmentally friendly. Unlike
synthetic fertilizers, which are chemically manufactured, organic fertilizers release nutrients
slowly, providing a continuous supply of nourishment to plants. They not only enhance the
growth of plants but also contribute to the overall health of the soil.

Types of Organic Fertilizers

Organic fertilizers come in various forms, each with distinct characteristics and benefits:
1. Compost: Decomposed organic matter, including plant residues, kitchen scraps, and manure,
compost improves soil structure and nutrient content. It enriches the soil with essential nutrients and
increases its ability to retain water.
2. Manure: Animal manure, including cow, chicken, and horse manure, is a commonly used organic
fertilizer. Manure is rich in nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, essential for plant
growth. However, it must be well-composted to avoid introducing pathogens or weed seeds into the
soil.
3. Green Manure: This involves growing certain crops like clover, alfalfa, or legumes, which are then
tilled back into the soil to improve its nutrient content and organic matter. Green manure is
particularly beneficial for improving nitrogen levels due to the ability of leguminous plants to fix
atmospheric nitrogen.

Benefits of Organic Fertilizers

1. Improved Soil Health: Organic fertilizers enhance the soil structure by increasing the organic
matter content, which helps improve water retention, drainage, and aeration. This leads to a better
root environment and healthier plants.
2. Slow Release of Nutrients: Organic fertilizers release nutrients gradually over time, ensuring a
steady supply for plants. This slow release reduces the risk of nutrient leaching and minimizes the
potential for environmental pollution.
3. Environmentally Friendly: Organic fertilizers are biodegradable and less likely to harm the
environment. They do not cause soil acidification or contamination of water resources, unlike some
synthetic fertilizers, which can lead to eutrophication and groundwater pollution.
4. Increased Microbial Activity: Organic fertilizers stimulate the growth of beneficial
microorganisms in the soil, such as bacteria and fungi. These microorganisms break down organic
matter, enhancing nutrient availability to plants and promoting a healthy soil ecosystem.
5. Sustainability: By recycling organic waste materials, organic fertilizers contribute to sustainability
in agriculture. They reduce the need for synthetic chemicals and provide a natural, renewable source
of plant nutrients.

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 Research Methodology and IPR[BRMK557] ` 2023-2024

Fig. No 2.1 Organic fertilizers

2.2 Inorganic (Synthetic) Fertilizers

Inorganic or synthetic fertilizers are chemically manufactured products that supply

essential nutrients to plants, including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K),
commonly referred to as NPK. These fertilizers are designed to provide plants with nutrients in
concentrated forms, and their use has been integral in increasing agricultural productivity and
meeting the demands of a growing global population. Unlike organic fertilizers, which release
nutrients slowly, inorganic fertilizers are fast-acting and deliver nutrients quickly to plants.

Types of Inorganic Fertilizers

1. Nitrogen Fertilizers: Nitrogen is essential for promoting vegetative growth and is a major
component of amino acids and proteins. Synthetic nitrogen fertilizers include ammonium nitrate
(NH₄NO₃), urea (CO(NH₂)₂), and ammonium sulfate ((NH₄)₂SO₄). These fertilizers are used to
stimulate rapid growth, particularly in leafy vegetables and grasses.
2. Phosphorus Fertilizers: Phosphorus is crucial for root development, energy transfer within the
plant, and flowering. The most common synthetic phosphorus fertilizers are superphosphate
(Ca(H₂PO₄)₂) and ammonium phosphate (NH₄H₂PO₄). These fertilizers help improve crop
establishment and increase fruit and seed production.
3. Potassium Fertilizers: Potassium is essential for water regulation, photosynthesis, and disease
resistance. Potassium fertilizers include potassium chloride (KCl), potassium sulfate (K₂SO₄), and
potassium nitrate (KNO₃). These fertilizers are particularly important for crops like potatoes,
tomatoes, and fruits that require strong cell structure and resistance to stress.
4. Micronutrient Fertilizers: These fertilizers provide trace elements such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn),
copper (Cu), and manganese (Mn), which are necessary for plant growth in small quantities.
Micronutrient fertilizers are often applied when there is a deficiency in the soil, impacting plant
health and productivity.

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 Research Methodology and IPR[BRMK557] ` 2023-2024
Benefits of Inorganic Fertilizers

1. Quick Nutrient Availability: One of the primary advantages of synthetic fertilizers is that they
deliver nutrients to plants rapidly, promoting fast plant growth. This is particularly beneficial during
critical stages of crop growth, such as the flowering and fruiting periods.
2. High Nutrient Concentration: Inorganic fertilizers are concentrated, meaning they provide a high
nutrient density in small amounts. This makes them more efficient in terms of nutrient delivery
compared to organic fertilizers, which may require larger quantities to achieve similar results.
3. Precise Nutrient Control: Synthetic fertilizers allow for precise control over the nutrient
composition applied to plants.
4. Cost-Effective: Inorganic fertilizers are often more affordable than organic alternatives, making
them accessible to a larger number of farmers.

Fig. No 2.2 Inorganic Fertilizers

2.3 Biofertilizers

Biofertilizers are natural, environmentally friendly substances that contain living

microorganisms which promote plant growth by enhancing nutrient availability or improving
soil health. These microorganisms include bacteria, fungi, algae, and other beneficial microbes
that contribute to the biological processes essential for plant development. Biofertilizers have
gained significant attention due to the increasing demand for sustainable agricultural practices,
as they offer an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers.

Types of Biofertilizers:

1. Nitrogen-Fixing Biofertilizers: These biofertilizers primarily consist of nitrogen-fixing bacteria,

which help plants by converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be absorbed by plants.
Common examples include Rhizobium, Azotobacter, and Azospirillum. Rhizobium is especially
known for its symbiotic relationship with leguminous plants, where it forms nodules on the plant
roots to fix nitrogen.
2. Phosphate-Solubilizing Biofertilizers: Phosphate is an essential nutrient for plants, but it often
becomes insoluble in the soil. Phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms, such as Pseudomonas and
Bacillus, help release phosphates from organic and inorganic compounds, making it available to

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 Research Methodology and IPR[BRMK557] ` 2023-2024
plants.
3. Mycorrhizal Fungi: Mycorrhizae are fungi that form symbiotic relationships with plant roots.
These fungi increase the root surface area, improving nutrient and water absorption, especially in
nutrient-poor soils. Mycorrhizal biofertilizers, such as Glomus, benefit a wide range of crops by
enhancing their growth, particularly in conditions of drought or soil nutrient deficiencies.
4. Decomposers: These biofertilizers contain microbes like Trichoderma and Bacillus species that
help in the breakdown of organic matter in the soil. This process releases essential nutrients, such as
nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are crucial for plant growth.

Benefits of Biofertilizers:

1. Enhanced Soil Fertility: By promoting the biological cycling of nutrients, biofertilizers improve
the overall fertility and health of the soil. They enhance the microbial activity in the soil, leading to
better nutrient availability for plants.
2. Reduced Dependence on Chemical Fertilizers: The use of biofertilizers helps reduce the reliance
on synthetic fertilizers, which are not only costly but also contribute to soil degradation, pollution,
and other environmental hazards.
3. Environmental Sustainability: Since biofertilizers are natural products, their use helps minimize
environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions associated with chemical fertilizers. They
also contribute to maintaining biodiversity and improving soil structure.
4. Cost-Effectiveness: Biofertilizers can be a cost-effective solution for small and large-scale farmers.
They are often cheaper to produce and apply compared to chemical fertilizers, making them
accessible to a broader range of farmers.
5. Disease Resistance: Some biofertilizers, such as Trichoderma, can also act as biocontrol agents,
protecting plants from certain soil-borne diseases by outcompeting harmful pathogens.

Fig. No 2.3 Biofertilizers

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Research Methodology and IPR[BRMK557] ` 2023-2024
3. Importance of Fertilizers in Agriculture

3.1 Enhancing Soil Fertility

Soil fertility is a critical factor in determining the success of crop production. Fertilizers replenish
essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which may be depleted over time
due to constant cropping. Without fertilizers, soil becomes infertile, leading to poor crop yields.

3.2 Boosting Crop Yields

Fertilizers are vital for boosting crop yields. They supply plants with the necessary nutrients to grow
to their full potential. For instance, nitrogen fertilizers increase leaf growth, while phosphorus
encourages root development, and potassium improves overall plant health. Increased crop yield
leads to higher food production, ensuring food security for growing populations.

3.3 Improving Crop Quality

Fertilizers also improve the quality of crops by enhancing their nutrient content, color, taste, and
resistance to diseases. For example, the application of balanced fertilizers can lead to higher vitamin
content in fruits and vegetables, benefiting consumers' health.

3.4 Supporting Sustainable Agriculture

When used correctly, fertilizers can support sustainable farming practices by improving soil health,
reducing the need for extensive land clearing, and increasing the efficiency of water use. Fertilizers
are essential for reducing the environmental footprint of agriculture while still meeting the demands
of a growing global population.

Fig. No 3.1 Crop yield improvement

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 Research Methodology and IPR[BRMK557] ` 2023-2024

4. Advantages and Disadvantages of Fertilizers

Fertilizers, both organic and inorganic, play a vital role in modern agriculture by providing essential
nutrients to plants and enhancing crop yields. However, their use comes with both benefits and
drawbacks, depending on the type, application method, and management practices. Below is an
overview of the advantages and disadvantages of fertilizers.

4.1 Advantages of Fertilizers

1. Increased Crop Yield: Fertilizers are key to enhancing agricultural productivity. By supplying
essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, fertilizers boost plant growth and help
achieve higher yields. This is particularly important in regions where soil fertility is depleted or
insufficient for optimal crop production.
2. Improved Plant Quality: Fertilizers contribute to the overall health of plants by supplying them
with the nutrients needed for strong growth, disease resistance, and high-quality produce. This
results in better crop appearance, improved taste, higher nutrient content, and greater market value.
3. Enhanced Soil Fertility: Fertilizers replenish nutrients that are depleted in the soil due to continuous
cropping. For instance, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are often lost through harvests, and
fertilizers help restore these vital nutrients, maintaining soil fertility over time.
4. Faster Growth and Maturation: Fertilizers can accelerate the growth and maturation process of
crops. This is especially beneficial in areas where time is a critical factor, allowing farmers to
produce multiple harvests in a single growing season.
5. Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility: Compared to other agricultural inputs, fertilizers are
relatively cost-effective. They are readily available and can be applied in precise amounts, making
them an accessible and efficient way to improve crop production and food security.

4.2 Disadvantages of Fertilizers

1. Environmental Pollution: Overuse or misapplication of fertilizers can lead to nutrient runoff into
nearby water sources, causing water pollution. Excess nitrogen and phosphorus can lead to
eutrophication, which disrupts aquatic ecosystems, leading to algal blooms, reduced oxygen levels,
and the death of marine life.
2. Soil Degradation: Long-term reliance on synthetic fertilizers can lead to soil degradation. These
fertilizers often do not add organic matter to the soil, which is necessary for maintaining soil
structure, improving water retention, and supporting beneficial microorganisms. Over time, the soil
can become more acidic and less fertile.
3. Nutrient Imbalances: Fertilizers provide essential nutrients, but they often focus on just a few key
elements, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This can lead to nutrient imbalances, where
certain trace elements or micronutrients, such as calcium, magnesium, or iron, become deficient,
negatively affecting plant growth and health.
4. Health Risks: The improper use of chemical fertilizers, especially synthetic ones, can have health
risks for both farmers and consumers. Overexposure to some chemicals in fertilizers can lead to
respiratory problems, skin irritation, and contamination of food crops with harmful substances,
posing risks to human health.
5. Cost and Dependency: While fertilizers are generally cost-effective, their continuous use can create
a financial burden for farmers, especially in regions with limited access to affordable fertilizers.
Additionally, dependency on chemical fertilizers can lead to a "fertilizer treadmill," where
increasing amounts are needed to maintain yields, ultimately raising production costs.

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5. Conclusion

Fertilizers are undeniably crucial in modern agriculture, playing an essential role in boosting food
production and ensuring food security for the growing global population. The primary purpose of fertilizers
is to replenish the nutrients in the soil that are vital for plant growth, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and
potassium. By providing these essential nutrients, fertilizers enhance crop yields, improve the quality of
produce, and contribute to the overall efficiency of agricultural systems.
The importance of fertilizers in agriculture extends beyond mere crop production. Fertilizers are key in
supporting sustainable farming practices by promoting soil health, improving water retention, and
facilitating better resource management. Organic and inorganic fertilizers, when used correctly, can ensure
that crops grow to their full potential, which in turn, supports the livelihoods of millions of farmers
worldwide.
In addition to improving the quantity and quality of crops, fertilizers enable farmers to cultivate crops in a
wide variety of environments. Fertilizers are particularly valuable in regions with poor soil fertility, as they
can make up for the natural nutrient deficiencies in the soil. Furthermore, they help in maintaining the long-
term productivity of agricultural land by providing essential nutrients that may be depleted through
continuous farming.
However, the use of fertilizers also comes with challenges. The environmental impacts, such as water
pollution, soil degradation, and greenhouse gas emissions, are significant concerns. Over-reliance on
synthetic fertilizers can lead to nutrient imbalances, reduced soil health, and other ecological issues. Thus,
the efficient and balanced use of fertilizers, along with sustainable farming practices, is critical to
minimizing these negative impacts.

Fig No 4.1 Presentation

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Research Methodology and IPR[BRMK557] ` 2023-2024

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