Tips to avoid Nitrogen leaching
Nitrate leaching is natural
procedure. It occurs when nitrate leaves the soil in drainage water. Leaching also occurs
when irrigation or rainfall carries nitrogen mostly in the nitrate form dropping
through the soil profile. As nitrate moves below plant root systems, it constantly
move downward and ultimately reaches to groundwater. When it remains in ground
water, it does not create problem but once it comes into the ground water and mix
with other fresh water bodies, it is harmful and becomes an environmental
pollutant.
Environmental scientists have signified that nitrate level in fresh
water is an important pointer of effluence and there is stern need to devise
policies by national and regional government to enhance water quality. Agriculturalists
must be aware of the risk of leaching and they must manage their crops to reduce
losses from their land.
There are a number of
ways in which gardeners can minimize nitrate leaching.
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It
is necessary for grower to apply correct amount of fertilizer.
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Fertilizers
must be applied when same is needed by plants.
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Growers
must adopt proper irrigation management methods.
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There
is a need for good fertilizer planning for realistic yield goals.
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Gardeners
must use advanced technology to support best management practices such as
software decision support tools.
Major possibility for
leaching is in sandy soils during wet weather or under excessive irrigation,
and following applications of quick-release nitrogen at high rates. Growers may
lessen the impact of leaching by using slow-release nitrogen sources on
high-sand-content soils or by using low rate applications of quick-release
nitrogen sources. Leaching can also be condensed by limiting nitrogen
applications when plants are not actively growing and/or during highly wet
periods of the year.
To encapsulate, Nitrogen
leaching from arable land to the marine environment is grave concern for
environmentalist. It degrades the environment and adversely impacts on human
health. Nitrogen leaching is major ways of nitrogen loss which results in
groundwater adulteration or surface water eutrophication.
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