Which application method can minimize fertilizer losses?

The use of controlled-release fertilizers is particularly effective in minimizing fertilizer losses due to their unique formulation designed to release nutrients slowly over time. This steady release aligns nutrient availability with plant uptake needs, which can be particularly beneficial during peak growth periods. When fertilizer is released gradually, it reduces the likelihood of nutrient runoff and leaching, both of which can occur when fertilizers are applied in larger, more immediate quantities.

Moreover, controlled-release fertilizers are less susceptible to volatilization losses, especially under conditions like high temperatures and soil moisture fluctuations. By ensuring that nutrients remain available to the plant over an extended period, these fertilizers enhance nutrient use efficiency and support plant health, ultimately leading to improved crop yields with lower environmental impact.

In contrast, other application methods, such as broadcast application and foliar feeding, may result in quick nutrient dispensation without the same level of control over nutrient timing, increasing the risk of losses through runoff or evaporation. Deep banding, while effective in placing nutrients directly in the root zone, does not offer the gradual nutrient release that helps mitigate these losses, making controlled-release fertilizers the optimal choice in this context.