Survey of 400 smallholder farmers finds urea use 25–30% above recommended levels, while DAP application is 40–60% below recommendations

Brussels/Lahore, (Unib Rashid) — A survey examining fertiliser application practices among smallholder farmers in Punjab’s intensive rice–wheat cropping areas has identified a significant imbalance in the use of essential crop nutrients.

According to the survey, which covered 400 smallholder farmers, urea fertiliser is applied at an average rate of 25–30% above recommended levels, while the application of diammonium phosphate (DAP), a major source of phosphorus, is 40–60% below the recommended rate.

The survey also found that more than 97% of respondents do not use potash-based fertilisers, highlighting a potential imbalance in the supply of essential nutrients required for crop growth.

Why Is Urea Being Overused?

One important factor behind this trend is that urea application can produce relatively rapid and visible changes in the greenness of crop leaves and foliage. A greener-looking crop may lead farmers to believe that applying more nitrogen will result in a proportionate increase in yield.

However, applying nitrogen beyond a crop’s requirements does not necessarily increase production. Instead, inefficient fertiliser use can raise cultivation costs and increase the risk of nitrogen losses, potentially contributing to adverse environmental effects.

The survey findings suggest that some farmers may place greater emphasis on the immediate visible condition of their crops, while giving comparatively less attention to soil nutrient requirements and the balanced application of different fertilisers.

Phosphorus Deficiency and Neglect of Potash

In contrast to the excessive use of urea, the survey identified a substantial shortfall in phosphorus application. DAP fertiliser is an important source of phosphorus, which plays a key role in root development, energy transfer and early plant growth. An inadequate supply of this nutrient can affect crop development and potentially reduce yields.

Potash is similarly important for maintaining water balance in plants, supporting various physiological processes and improving their ability to withstand environmental stresses. The finding that more than 97% of surveyed farmers do not use potash fertilisers highlights the need for a comprehensive assessment of crop nutrient requirements.

Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are all essential nutrients for agricultural production. Excessive application of one cannot compensate for a deficiency in another, making balanced fertiliser use crucial for healthy crop development and sustainable yields.

Need for a Scientific Approach to Fertiliser Application

In light of the survey findings, the agricultural sector needs to focus less on applying larger quantities of fertiliser and more on supplying the right balance of nutrients in quantities suited to individual crops.

In this regard, the internationally recognised principle of 4R Nutrient Stewardship is particularly relevant. It promotes the use of the right fertiliser source, at the right rate, at the right time and in the right place.

Applying fertilisers on the basis of soil testing, crop type, soil fertility and local agricultural recommendations can improve nutrient-use efficiency and help reduce unnecessary farming expenses.

Implications for Agricultural Research and Policymaking

For agricultural researchers, extension services and policymakers, the findings indicate that balanced fertiliser use should be a priority in farmer education and advisory programmes.

Raising awareness of the importance of soil testing, providing recommendations tailored to crop nutrient requirements and demonstrating the benefits of balanced fertilisation through practical field demonstrations could help address the problem.

However, the findings are based on a survey of 400 farmers in Punjab’s intensive rice–wheat cropping areas. Further details, including the duration of the research, the institution responsible for the study and the methodology used to establish recommended application rates, would help enable a more comprehensive assessment of the results.

Overall, the survey highlights that increasing the quantity of fertiliser alone is not enough to improve agricultural productivity. Ensuring that crops receive a balanced supply of essential nutrients is equally important.

Scientific fertiliser management can play a significant role in reducing costs for smallholder farmers, maintaining soil fertility and advancing more sustainable agricultural production.