Choosing fertilizer blindly can cost you yields, time and money. A simple understanding of NPK, CAN and Urea can immediately improve your crop's performance.
Introduction
Every crop has unique nutritional needs, and the fertilizer you choose determines how well the crop grows, resists stress, and produces. Farmers often ask: Should I use NPK, CAN, or Urea?
This guide breaks down the difference, when to use each, and how to make the best choice for your farm.
1. Understanding NPK Fertilizer
NPK stands for Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K)—the three primary nutrients crops need.
Best for:
- Planting stage as a basal fertilizer
- Crops at early vegetative or seedling stages
- Improving root development, early growth and overall plant health
Common formulations: 17:17:17, 10:26:10, 20:10:10
When to use:
- During planting
- When establishing young crops
- When the soil test shows low phosphorus or potassium
Benefits:
- Balanced nutrition
- Stronger roots
- Faster establishment
- Improves crop uniformity
2. Understanding CAN (Calcium Ammonium Nitrate)
CAN contains Nitrogen (Ca + N) and Calcium, which improves soil structure and reduces acidity.
Best for:
- Top dressing after crops have established
- Crops experiencing nitrogen deficiency
- Crops grown in acidic soils
Advantages:
- Slow-release, does not burn crops
- Calcium strengthens cell walls and improves crop firmness
- Stays stable in the soil, even in hot climates
Ideal crops:
Maize, potatoes, cabbages, tomatoes, and most vegetables.
3. Understanding Urea (46% Nitrogen)
Urea is the most concentrated source of nitrogen. It drives vegetative growth and leaf development.
Best for:
- Fast greening
- Boosting vegetative growth in maize, vegetables, and pastures
- Splitting nitrogen applications across the season
Important Things to Note:
- Volatilizes easily—apply before rain or mix with soil
- Not ideal for acidic soils unless lime is added
- Must not be used at planting hole to avoid burning seeds
Why it’s popular:
- Fast action
- Affordable
- High nitrogen content
4. Which Fertilizer Should You Choose?
Crop Stage | Best Fertilizer | Reason |
|---|---|---|
Planting/Basal | NPK | Balanced nutrients for root establishment |
Early Growth | Urea | Drives vegetative growth |
Mid to Late Stage | CAN | Slow-release nitrogen + calcium support |
Acidic Soils | CAN | Neutralizes acidity and prevents losses |
Low P or K soils | NPK | Provides missing nutrients |
Pro tip: Always combine fertilizer choice with a soil test for maximum efficiency.
Conclusion
NPK, CAN, and Urea serve different but complementary purposes. NPK sets the foundation, Urea boosts early vegetative growth, and CAN keeps the crop stable and productive through mid-season. Understanding these roles ensures you invest in the right input at the right time—and get the best yield per shilling.
For high-quality NPK, CAN, Urea, foliar feeds, fungicides and certified seeds, visit Kuza Agrochemicals and Supplies Ltd today.
We help farmers Sow, Grow, Thrive with the right inputs and expert guidance.
Contact us or visit our website www.kuzaagrochem.co.ke to order or get personalized recommendations.