Controlled Release Fertilizers: A Game Changer for Efficient Crop Production

Introduction

The global controlled-release fertilizer market is on a significant growth trajectory, driven by advancements in agricultural technology and increasing demand for sustainable farming practices. The market, valued at approximately USD 3.1 billion in 2023, is expected to expand to around USD 6.6 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.9% from 2024 to 2033. Several key factors fuel this growth. The rising need for enhanced crop yields and efficient nutrient management, coupled with the adoption of precision agriculture, is propelling the demand for controlled release fertilizers.

These fertilizers offer the advantage of releasing nutrients gradually, which improves nutrient use efficiency and reduces environmental impact.
However, the market also faces challenges, including high production costs and the need for significant research and development to meet evolving agricultural needs. Recent developments in the industry include the introduction of new formulations that provide extended nutrient release periods and improve crop performance.

Koch Industries has made significant strides in the controlled-release fertilizer sector through its subsidiary, Koch Agronomic Services. The company focuses on innovative technologies that enhance nutrient use efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Koch’s controlled-release fertilizers are designed to provide a steady supply of nutrients, which improves crop yields and minimizes nutrient loss. Their products cater to various agricultural needs, aligning with the industry’s push towards more sustainable and efficient farming practices.

ICL is a key player in the controlled release fertilizer market, and it is known for its advanced product offerings through ICL specialty fertilizers. The company’s controlled release fertilizers are designed to optimize nutrient availability over an extended period, enhancing crop performance and reducing environmental impact. ICL’s innovative products aim to meet the growing demand for efficient and sustainable agricultural solutions, leveraging their expertise in specialty nutrients.

Key Takeaways

Controlled Release Fertilizer Market size is expected to be worth around USD 6.6 Billion by 2033, From USD 3.1 Billion by 2023, growing at a CAGR of 7.9% from 2024 to 2033.
Regional Dominance: In the Asia-Pacific region, the controlled-release fertilizer market is valued at USD 1.2 billion, representing a 40.0% share.
By Product Type: Coated and encapsulated products dominate, comprising 42.2% of the market share.
By Form: Granules are the preferred form, constituting 58.6% of product distribution.
By Application: Soil application holds the majority share at 62.1% in the market.
By Crop Type: Fruits and vegetables lead crop preferences, representing 46.2% of usage.

Statistics

Chemical fertilizers made from raw synthetic components exhibit lower utilization efficiency when directly applied to plants, with only 30–35 % of the nutrients being absorbed.
Based on adsorption tests, recent experiments with phosphate-CRF have demonstrated that the nutrient PO43- can be efficiently loaded, with a maximum loading capacity of 130 mg per g of composite biochar.
The use of CRF has been demonstrated to enhance mineral nutrition in plants for an extended duration, from 3 to 18 months with just one application.
The early product had 60 percent of the total nitrogen cold-water-insoluble, and the unreacted (quick-release) less than 15%. Methylene ureas, e.g. methylene urea, were commercialized in the 1960s and 1970s, having 25% and 60% of the nitrogen as cold-water-insoluble, and unreacted urea nitrogen in the range of 15% to 30%.
Many factors motivate the use of CRF, including the more efficient use of fertilizer. Illustrating the problem, it is estimated that, on average, 16% of conventional nitrogen-based fertilizers are lost by evaporation (as NH3, N2O, N2) or run-off ammonia.
However, the nutrient use efficiency of conventional agricultural chemical fertilizers is still very low (nitrogen (N) 30–40%, phosphorus (P) 15–20%, potassium (K) 50–55%, trace elements 2–5%).
Controlled-release fertilizer with 50% of the total nitrogen dose and T3: Controlled-release fertilizer with 75% of the total nitrogen dose was compared to conventional fertilizer (C).
The results revealed that the application of these controlled-release fertilizers at less than 75% decreased vegetative growth.
No effect of fertilizer type on leaf nutritional components such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium, and fruit quality as pH, juice percentage, and °Brix. Besides, the application of the CRF improved the chlorophyll index by 9.39%, 8.31%, and 3.60% respectively under T3, T2, and T1.
However, the reduction of controlled-release fertilizers to half (50%) can be considered to have positive effects on fruit diameter, weight, and yield compared to other CRF doses. Compared to T1 (100%), the application of T2 (50%) improved the fruit diameter, fruit yield, and fruit weight respectively by 9.94%, 33.90%, and 15.39%.
Slow and controlled release fertilizer improves fertilizer use efficiency by up to 30 percent over traditional fertilizers.
There were two kinds of nitrogen fertilizer, PCU, and urea, which were combined with PCPC at three application rates (40, 80, and 120 kg ha−1).
In particular, only about 40–60% of fertilizer nitrogen, 15–20% of phosphorus, and 50–60% of potassium are used by crop plants, the rest ending up polluting the environment.
The experimental hydrogel showed a high water retention capacity able to absorb 300 times its weight water.
Less than 50% of the nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in the fertilizers is taken up by the plants
The best fertilizer rate continued to be 6.0 g N/pot for weigela with Plantacote, while the best fertilizer ranges were 3.0–4.5 g N/pot for spirea and weigela with Osmocote and 3.0–6.0 g N/pot for spirea with Plantacote.
G-CRF had a better effect on controlling the release of N, P, and K nutrients, and the effect was more efficient when soil-water content was lower than 45% (w/w), temperature was below 35°C, and soil pH was in the range from weak acid to neutral.

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Emerging Trends

Sustainability Focus: There is a growing emphasis on eco-friendly controlled release fertilizers that reduce environmental impact by minimizing nutrient runoff and improving soil health. Manufacturers are developing products with biodegradable coatings and using renewable materials.
Technological Innovations: Advances in coating technologies and nutrient delivery systems are enhancing the effectiveness of controlled release fertilizers. Innovations include smart coatings that respond to soil conditions and temperature, providing nutrients as needed.
Precision Agriculture Integration: Controlled-release fertilizers are increasingly being integrated with precision agriculture technologies. This integration allows for more precise application and monitoring, improving nutrient use efficiency and reducing waste.
Enhanced Formulations: New formulations are being developed to extend the nutrient release period, which helps meet the varying needs of different crops and growing conditions. These formulations aim to improve crop yields and reduce the frequency of fertilizer applications.
Increased Adoption in Developing Regions: There is growing adoption of controlled-release fertilizers in developing regions, driven by the need for increased agricultural productivity and sustainable farming practices. This trend is supported by rising awareness and access to advanced agricultural technologies.
Regulatory and Policy Support: Government policies and regulations promoting sustainable agriculture are encouraging the use of controlled release fertilizers. Supportive regulations and incentives are helping to drive market growth and innovation.

Use Cases

Crop Yield Enhancement: Controlled-release fertilizers are used to boost crop yields by providing a steady supply of nutrients. For example, studies have shown that using these fertilizers can increase crop yields by up to 15% compared to traditional fertilizers. This steady nutrient release supports crops throughout their growth cycles, leading to better overall productivity.
Sustainable Farming Practices: These fertilizers help promote sustainable farming by reducing nutrient runoff and soil erosion. They can cut nitrogen losses by up to 50%, minimizing environmental pollution and improving soil health over time. This is particularly beneficial in reducing the negative impact of fertilizer use on nearby water bodies.
Precision Agriculture: Controlled-release fertilizers are integral to precision agriculture, where they are used alongside technologies like GPS and soil sensors. This integration allows for precise nutrient application tailored to specific areas within a field, optimizing resource use and reducing wastage. This can lead to a 10-20% increase in nutrient efficiency.
Ornamental and Turf Management: In landscaping and turf management, controlled release fertilizers are used to maintain healthy and visually appealing plants and lawns. They provide consistent nutrition over extended periods, reducing the need for frequent applications and labor. This can decrease fertilizer application frequency by up to 40%, saving both time and cost.
High-Value Crops: For high-value crops like fruits, vegetables, and flowers, controlled release fertilizers ensure optimal growth and quality. They help in achieving uniform growth and enhancing the size and quality of produce. For instance, controlled release fertilizers can improve fruit size by up to 10% and enhance flower blooming.
Greenhouse Production: In greenhouse environments, controlled release fertilizers help manage nutrient delivery efficiently. They are used to ensure that plants receive a steady supply of nutrients, which is crucial in the controlled environment of a greenhouse where precise conditions are maintained. This can lead to better plant health and reduced nutrient leaching.

Key Players

ICL is a key player in the controlled release fertilizer market, and it is known for its advanced product offerings through ICL specialty fertilizers. The company’s controlled release fertilizers are designed to optimize nutrient availability over an extended period, enhancing crop performance and reducing environmental impact. ICL’s innovative products aim to meet the growing demand for efficient and sustainable agricultural solutions, leveraging their expertise in specialty nutrients.

Yara International is a leading player in the controlled release fertilizer sector, known for its innovative solutions in nutrient management. The company focuses on developing advanced fertilizer technologies that enhance nutrient efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Yara’s controlled release products, such as the YaraMila range, are designed to deliver nutrients gradually, optimizing crop growth and minimizing waste. This approach supports sustainable agriculture by improving fertilizer use efficiency and promoting better crop yields.

SQM, a prominent global chemical company, actively contributes to the controlled release fertilizer market through its high-quality products. The company’s controlled release fertilizers are engineered to offer extended nutrient release, which helps in improving crop yield and reducing environmental impact. SQM’s innovations in fertilizer technology focus on optimizing nutrient delivery and enhancing soil health, aligning with sustainable agricultural practices. Their products are widely recognized for their effectiveness and contribution to more efficient farming.

Haifa Chemicals is a notable player in the controlled release fertilizer sector, renowned for its innovative products that enhance nutrient efficiency and minimize environmental impact. The company offers a range of controlled release fertilizers under its Poly-Feed brand, designed to provide crops with essential nutrients over an extended period. Haifa Chemicals’ focus on advanced technology and sustainability positions it as a leader in improving crop yields while addressing environmental concerns.

Jcam agri is a key contributor to the controlled release fertilizer market, known for its advanced formulations that ensure efficient nutrient delivery and prolonged release. The company’s fertilizers are designed to optimize nutrient uptake by plants and reduce wastage, addressing both agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. Jcam agri’s commitment to innovation and quality makes it a significant player in enhancing crop performance through controlled release technologies.

Compo Expert is a leading player in the controlled release fertilizer sector, specializing in innovative solutions that enhance nutrient delivery and efficiency. Their products, such as the “Compo Expert Basacote” range, are designed to provide a steady supply of nutrients over extended periods, which helps optimize plant growth and minimize environmental impact. Compo Expert focuses on advanced coating technologies and customized formulations to meet the specific needs of various crops and soil conditions, supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

AgroBridge (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd is a prominent company in the controlled release fertilizer sector, known for its high-quality products that improve nutrient management in agriculture. The company offers a range of controlled release fertilizers designed to deliver nutrients gradually, enhancing crop yields and reducing the need for frequent applications. AgroBridge’s emphasis on innovation and quality ensures that their fertilizers support efficient farming practices while addressing environmental concerns.

Central Glass Co., Ltd. is an active player in the controlled-release fertilizer sector, focusing on developing advanced products that enhance agricultural productivity. The company utilizes its expertise in glass technology to create specialized coating materials for fertilizers, ensuring a slow and steady release of nutrients. This approach helps improve nutrient use efficiency and minimizes environmental impact. Central Glass’s innovations cater to the growing demand for sustainable farming solutions and are integral to modern precision agriculture practices.

Nufarm Limited is a prominent player in the controlled-release fertilizer sector, focusing on innovative solutions to enhance agricultural productivity. The company is known for developing and distributing advanced fertilizers that release nutrients slowly, improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact. Nufarm’s controlled release fertilizers are designed to meet the evolving needs of modern agriculture, supporting sustainable farming practices and boosting crop yields. Their commitment to research and development ensures that they remain at the forefront of fertilizer technology.

Conclusion

This growth is fueled by the need for efficient nutrient management and improved crop yields. Controlled-release fertilizers offer significant benefits, including reduced environmental impact and enhanced nutrient use efficiency. However, challenges such as high production costs and the need for ongoing innovation remain. Recent developments in fertilizer technology continue to address these issues, contributing to the market’s expansion. As agricultural practices evolve towards sustainability, controlled release fertilizers are poised to play a crucial role in meeting the global demand for food while minimizing environmental impact.

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