What is Nitrogen Loss in Plants? | Koch Agronomic Services

What is Nitrogen Loss

The process of keeping nitrogen available to nourish crops is complicated. Variables such as weather, soil type and soil microbe population can all have an impact on how nitrogen can be lost. This diagram illustrates how nitrogen is made available for plants as well as the various mechanisms for loss.

AMMONIA VOLATILIZATION

• Above ground nitrogen loss
• Occurs when the soil’s urease enzymes break the urea molecules into ammonia gas
• Can take place in every soil type

NITRATE LEACHING

• Below ground nitrogen loss
• Happens when negatively charged nitrate is moved below the plant’s root zone by percolating water
• Most common in sandy soils

DENITRIFICATION

• Below ground nitrogen loss
• Occurs when nitrate nitrogen is converted back to gaseous forms
• Most prevalent in soils that are poorly drained or become waterlogged

ENHANCED EFFICIENCY FERTILIZERS CAN REDUCE NITROGEN LOSS

At Koch Agronomic Services (KAS) we’re proud to be part of the solution. Our products have been scientifically proven to minimize all three forms of nitrogen loss. From advanced urease and nitrification inhibitors to slow and controlled-release fertilizers, KAS is committed to delivering exceptional value to growers through a combination of innovative, effective products and outstanding service.