Comparative analysis of suspension fertilizers as alternatives to conventional organic fertilizers in drip irrigation systems.

Abstract

This study evaluates the feasibility of utilizing suspension fertilizers as alternatives to conventional organic fertilizers in drip irrigation systems. The investigation focused on several key aspects, including storage stability, particle size distribution, soil organic matter (OM) content, seed germination, and nutrient utilization efficiency. Suspension fertilizers maintained excellent storage stability, with no stratification or deterioration observed over prolonged storage (≥ 30 days). Their particle size distribution remained suitable for drip irrigation systems, ensuring uniform application and reducing clogging risks. The application of suspension fertilizers significantly increased soil OM content across different soil layers (5-20 cm depth) by 25.3 to 44.1%. The phosphorus-use efficiency of banana seedlings increased 9.1- to 12.6-fold relative to the control. The germination index of cucumber and radish seeds improved by 41.7 to 184.6%. The results demonstrate that suspension fertilizers are a viable alternative to traditional organic fertilizers in drip irrigation systems. They enhance soil fertility, promote seed germination, and improve nutrient utilization efficiency. Future research should focus on long-term field trials to validate these benefits across diverse agricultural settings and soil types.