What does the % Urea Nitrogen signify in fertilizers?

The percentage of Urea Nitrogen in fertilizers specifically indicates the amount of nitrogen that is present in the urea form. Urea is a synthetic organic compound that provides a significant source of nitrogen for plants when applied as fertilizer. This type of nitrogen can be converted by soil microorganisms into forms that plants can uptake, such as ammonium and nitrate.

Understanding the urea nitrogen content helps applicators determine how much nitrogen will be available to crops during the growing season. Urea is often favored for its high nitrogen content and low potential for volatilization compared to other nitrogen sources, assuming proper application techniques are used.

By focusing on the urea nitrogen percentage, fertilizer applicators can better optimize their fertilization strategies, ensuring they meet the nutritional needs of their crops while minimizing potential environmental impacts.