Nutrient composition and water solubility
- Available phosphate (45% to 46% P2O5): High concentration derived from treating rock phosphate with phosphoric acid.
- Water-soluble fraction: Over 85% of total phosphate is in monocalcium phosphate form, immediately available for root absorption.
- Zero nitrogen and potash: Allows precise phosphate top-ups without delivering unwanted starter nitrogen in legume pulses.
Agronomic role in pulses, oilseeds and root crops
0:45:0 is particularly effective for pulse crops (chickpea, pigeon pea, green gram) and oilseeds (groundnut, soybean) that fix their own atmospheric nitrogen through symbiotic rhizobia. Supplying pure phosphate at sowing accelerates root nodulation and ATP energy transfer for vigorous pod filling.
Application placement and soil testing
Because phosphate ions are immobile in soil, 0:45:0 must always be applied as a basal dressing placed 5 cm below and to the side of the seed furrow during land preparation. Surface broadcasting should be avoided, as exposed phosphate becomes fixed by iron, aluminium, or calcium ions.
Official source
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Department of Fertilizers, Government of India ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What nutrient is provided by a 0:45:0 fertilizer?
It provides 45% to 46% available phosphorus (P2O5) without nitrogen or potassium.
Why is straight phosphate fertilizer preferred for pulse crops?
Pulses fix their own nitrogen from the air; high straight phosphate stimulates active root nodulation without excessive vegetative growth.
How should high-phosphate granular fertilizers be placed in the soil?
Place granules in bands 5 cm below and beside the seed line so emerging seedling roots can intercept the immobile phosphorus directly.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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