Urea 46% Granules & Prills – How to Use & Buy Online in the UK

Urea 46% fertilizer, known for its high nitrogen content, is a cornerstone in modern agriculture and gardening. Its efficiency and effectiveness make it a preferred choice for enhancing plant growth and soil fertility. In the UK, reputable brands like HD Chemicals and Magic Garden offer quality urea fertilizers online, providing convenience and reliability for consumers.

Understanding Urea 46% Fertilizer

Urea, chemically represented as CO(NH₂)₂, is a white crystalline substance that contains approximately 46% nitrogen, making it the fertilizer with the highest nitrogen content available. This high concentration allows for efficient transportation and application, as smaller quantities are needed to deliver the required nitrogen levels to plants.

Upon application, urea undergoes hydrolysis, converting into ammonium carbonate through the action of the enzyme urease. This process releases nitrogen in a form that plants can readily absorb, promoting vigorous vegetative growth. However, it's crucial to manage this process properly to minimize nitrogen loss through volatilization. 

Benefits of Urea 46% Fertilizer

1. High Nitrogen Content: With 46% nitrogen, urea provides a concentrated source of this essential nutrient, supporting robust plant growth.

2. Cost-Effective: Due to its high nutrient density, urea is economical, reducing transportation and application costs.

3. Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of crops and soil types, urea can be used in various agricultural and horticultural applications.

4. Ease of Application: Available in granular form, urea can be easily applied using standard spreading equipment.

Application Methods

Proper application of urea is essential to maximize its benefits and minimize potential drawbacks:

• Broadcasting: Spreading urea evenly across the soil surface is common. To reduce nitrogen loss, it's advisable to incorporate urea into the soil through light tilling or to apply it just before rainfall or irrigation.

• Foliar Application: Urea can be dissolved in water and sprayed directly onto plant leaves. This method allows for quick nitrogen absorption but requires careful concentration management to prevent leaf burn.

• Fertigation: Integrating urea into irrigation systems enables simultaneous watering and fertilization, ensuring uniform nutrient distribution.

Environmental Considerations

While urea is highly effective, improper use can lead to environmental issues:

• Ammonia Volatilization: If left on the soil surface, urea can decompose into ammonia gas, leading to nitrogen loss and air pollution. Incorporating urea into the soil or applying it before rain can mitigate this. 

• Leaching: Excessive application or heavy rainfall can cause nitrogen to leach into groundwater, potentially contaminating water sources. Applying urea in recommended amounts and timing applications appropriately can reduce this risk.

Purchasing Urea 46% Fertilizer Online in the UK

For those looking to purchase urea 46% fertilizer online in the UK, brands like HD Chemicals and Magic Garden offer reliable options:

• HD Chemicals: Based in Plymouth, HD Chemicals provides urea prills with 46% nitrogen content. They offer various pack sizes, including 400g, 1500g, and 3kg,, catering to different needs. 

• Magic Garden: This brand offers granular nitrogenous urea 46% in 1kg 5kg and 10kg packs. Orders are processed through their website, with delivery across UK 

When purchasing online, ensure that the supplier provides detailed product information and usage guidelines. It's also advisable to check customer reviews and ratings to assess product quality and service reliability.

How to Use Urea 46% Fertilizer – Detailed Instructions

Urea 46% is a high-nitrogen fertilizer widely used in agriculture, gardening, and horticulture. Proper application ensures optimal plant growth, prevents nitrogen loss, and minimizes environmental impact. Below are detailed step-by-step instructions on how to use urea 46% fertilizer effectively.

1. Understanding Urea 46% Fertilizer

• Chemical Formula: CO(NH₂)₂
• Nitrogen Content: 46%
• Form: White granules or prills
• Purpose: Provides essential nitrogen for plant growth, improving vegetative development.

Urea is water-soluble, making it easy to apply in different ways. However, improper use can lead to nitrogen loss through volatilization (ammonia gas release), leaching, or runoff.

2. Choosing the Right Application Method

There are three main ways to apply urea fertilizer:

A. Soil Application (Broadcasting & Incorporation)

Best for: Field crops, lawns, and gardens.

1. Measure the required amount based on your crop’s nitrogen needs. Over-application can damage plants and contribute to pollution.
2. Apply evenly over the soil using a fertilizer spreader or by hand (for small areas).
3. Incorporate into the soil by lightly tilling or watering immediately after application. This prevents nitrogen loss.
4. Recommended Dosage:
   • Lawns: 5-10 grams per square meter.
   • Vegetables & crops: 50-100 kg per hectare.
   • Orchards: 250-500 grams per tree.

Pro Tip: Avoid applying on hot, dry days, as urea left on the soil surface will rapidly evaporate.

B. Foliar Application (Urea Spray)

Best for: Quick nutrient absorption for crops, vegetables, and fruit trees.

1. Dissolve urea in water (typically 1-2% solution, or 10-20 grams per liter of water).
2. Use a sprayer to evenly coat leaves, ensuring fine mist application.
3. Spray during cool hours of the day (morning or late afternoon) to prevent leaf burn.
4. Repeat every 10-14 days, depending on plant needs.

Warning: High concentrations (>2%) can cause leaf burn. Always test on a small area first.

C. Fertigation (Irrigation System Application)

Best for: Large-scale farming, hydroponics, and greenhouse crops.

1. Prepare a liquid solution by dissolving urea in irrigation water.
2. Connect to a drip or sprinkler system for even distribution.
3. Apply in moderate amounts to prevent nutrient leaching.
4. Monitor pH levels: Urea can slightly acidify the soil over time.

3. Best Practices for Urea Application

Timing Matters!

• Early morning or late evening application prevents ammonia loss.
• Apply before rainfall or irrigation to help urea absorb into the soil.
• Avoid application during extreme heat or drought to prevent evaporation.

Combination with Other Fertilizers

• Avoid mixing with superphosphate or ammonium-based fertilizers in the same application, as it can cause chemical reactions.
• Use with potassium and phosphorus fertilizers for balanced plant nutrition.

4. Storage & Safety Guidelines

• Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture.
• Keep in sealed containers to prevent clumping.
• Wear gloves and a mask when handling large amounts.
• Keep away from children and animals.

Conclusion

Proper usage of Urea 46% fertilizer leads to healthier plants, improved yields, and cost-effective farming. Whether applied to soil, leaves, or irrigation systems, timing and application techniques are crucial for maximizing benefits and minimizing nitrogen loss.

Recommended Urea 46% Fertilizer Application Rates for Specific Crops

The optimal application of Urea 46% fertilizer depends on the type of crop, growth stage, and soil conditions. Below is a detailed guide on how to use urea effectively for different plants, ensuring maximum yield and minimal waste.

1. Urea Application for Common Crops

A. Cereal Crops (Wheat, Barley, Maize, Rice, Corn)

Best Application Methods: Broadcasting, Top-dressing, or Fertigation

✅ Pro Tips:

• Apply before rain or irrigation to prevent nitrogen loss.
• Avoid excessive application in one go, as it may lead to lodging (plants falling over) and reduced yields.

B. Vegetables (Tomatoes, Peppers, Cucumbers, Lettuce, Cabbage, Carrots, Onions, Potatoes)

Best Application Methods: Broadcasting, Side-dressing, Foliar Spray

✅ Pro Tips:

• Tomatoes & Peppers: Overuse of nitrogen can cause excess foliage growth with fewer fruits. Apply cautiously!
• Onions & Garlic: Apply in small doses to avoid root damage.

C. Fruits & Orchards (Apples, Citrus, Grapes, Bananas, Berries, Avocado, Mangoes, Peaches, Olives)

Best Application Methods: Soil Application, Foliar Spray, Fertigation

✅ Pro Tips:

• Use foliar spray (1-2% solution) to boost quick nutrient uptake.
• Avoid late-season applications, as excess nitrogen may delay fruit ripening.

D. Grass & Lawns (Turf, Golf Courses, Pasture Land)

Best Application Methods: Broadcasting, Fertigation

✅ Pro Tips:

• Water immediately after application to prevent ammonia loss.
• Do not overapply in summer to avoid burning the grass.

E. Legumes (Soybeans, Peas, Lentils, Chickpeas, Beans)

Best Application Methods: Minimal Use Required

✅ Pro Tips:

• Legumes fix nitrogen naturally, so they require much less urea than other crops.
• Excess nitrogen reduces nodulation, harming their natural ability to capture nitrogen from the air.

5. Special Considerations

Using Urea in Sandy Soil

• Apply in smaller, frequent doses to prevent leaching.
• Use slow-release nitrogen fertilizers in combination with urea.

Using Urea in Clay or Heavy Soil

• Urea stays longer in clay soil, so reduce application frequency.
• Incorporate into the soil to avoid nitrogen loss.

Using Urea in Organic Farming

• Synthetic urea is not allowed in certified organic farming, but some farmers use alternative nitrogen sources like composted manure or plant-based fertilizers.

Conclusion

By following these crop-specific urea application guidelines, you can maximize yield, reduce waste, and protect the environment. Proper timing, dosage, and application methods ensure healthy plant growth and efficient nitrogen absorption.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Urea 46% fertilizer?

   • Urea 46% fertilizer is a nitrogen-rich compound containing 46% nitrogen, used to promote plant growth.

2. How should I apply Urea 46% fertilizer?

   • It can be broadcasted, applied as a foliar spray, or used in fertigation systems. Incorporating it into the soil or applying before rain helps reduce nitrogen loss.

3. Is Urea 46% suitable for all plants?

   • While versatile, it's essential to follow recommended application rates, as excessive nitrogen can harm some plants.

4. Can I mix Urea 46% with other fertilizers?

   • Yes, urea can be blended with other fertilizers, but it's important to ensure compatibility to prevent adverse reactions.

5. What precautions should I take when storing Urea 46% fertilizer?

   • Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight to prevent clumping and degradation.

6. How does Urea 46% affect soil pH?

   • Urea can temporarily increase soil pH during hydrolysis but may lead to slight acidification over time. Regular soil testing is recommended.

7. Is Urea 46% fertilizer organic?

   • No, urea is synthetically produced, though it is chemically identical to the urea found in nature.

8. Can Urea 46% be used in organic farming?

   • Synthetic urea is generally not permitted in certified organic farming.

9. What are the signs of nitrogen deficiency in plants?

   • Common signs include yellowing of older leaves, stunted growth, and poor yield.

10. Where can I buy Urea 46% fertilizer in the UK?

    • Reputable suppliers like HD Chemicals LTD