Share this
Maize, or corn, is an increasingly important crop in Saudi Arabia as the Kingdom works toward food security in its arid climate. At Olimpum, we’re dedicated to supporting farmers with sustainable fertilizer solutions, and one common question we hear is: how many bags of fertilizer are needed per hectare of maize? The answer depends on soil conditions, maize variety, and yield goals, but we’ll break it down with practical insights for Saudi farmers. Let’s explore the factors and calculations to optimize maize production in this desert landscape.
Maize Nutrient Needs in Saudi Arabia
Maize requires three primary nutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Nitrogen drives leaf and stalk growth, phosphorus supports root development, and potassium enhances drought resistance—crucial in Saudi Arabia’s dry environment. The Kingdom’s sandy, low-organic soils often lack these nutrients naturally, making fertilization essential. A soil test is the first step, as it reveals deficiencies and guides fertilizer rates. Without testing, general recommendations can still apply, but precision is key in this water-scarce region.
Recommended Fertilizer Rates
In Saudi Arabia, maize yields typically range from 5 to 9 tons per hectare, depending on irrigation and management. To achieve this, experts suggest applying 120–180 kg of nitrogen, 40–60 kg of phosphorus, and 40–80 kg of potassium per hectare. These rates align with the Kingdom’s agricultural goals under Vision 2030, which emphasizes efficient resource use. For simplicity, let’s assume a moderate target of 150 kg N, 50 kg P, and 60 kg K per hectare—suitable for hybrid maize under drip irrigation, a common practice in Saudi Arabia.
Calculating Bags of Fertilizer
Fertilizer in Saudi Arabia is typically sold in 50-kg bags, with common blends like NPK 15-15-15 (15% N, 15% P₂O₅, 15% K₂O) for basal application and urea (46% N) for top-dressing. Here’s how to calculate:
- Basal Application (NPK 15-15-15): To supply 50 kg P (equivalent to 115 kg P₂O₅), you’d need about 767 kg of NPK 15-15-15 (115 ÷ 0.15 = 767 kg). That’s approximately 15 bags (767 ÷ 50 = 15.34, rounded down). This also provides 115 kg N and 115 kg K, exceeding the potassium need but partially meeting nitrogen.
- Top-Dressing (Urea): Subtract the 115 kg N from NPK, leaving 35 kg N needed (150 – 115 = 35). Urea at 46% N means 76 kg is required (35 ÷ 0.46 = 76 kg), or about 2 bags (76 ÷ 50 = 1.52, rounded up).
- Total: Around 17 bags per hectare (15 NPK + 2 urea), assuming no potassium adjustment. If soil potassium is sufficient, a custom blend could reduce this.
Factors Influencing Fertilizer Use
Saudi Arabia’s climate—hot, dry, and with minimal rainfall (about 100 mm annually)—means irrigation is non-negotiable. Drip systems, widely used, pair well with fertigation, allowing split applications that reduce waste. Soil salinity, common in the Kingdom, may also require additional potassium to bolster maize resilience. Hybrid varieties, popular for their yield potential, demand more nutrients than traditional ones, pushing bag counts higher. At Olimpum, we recommend consulting local agricultural extension services for site-specific advice, especially in regions like Al-Jouf or Tabuk.
Practical Tips for Saudi Farmers
Start with 10–12 bags of NPK at planting, mixed into the soil or applied via drip lines, then follow with 2–3 bags of urea at the 6-leaf stage and tasseling. Adjust based on soil tests and water quality—Saudi’s desalinated water can affect nutrient uptake. Over-fertilizing risks salt buildup, so less is often more in this environment.
Why Olimpum?
Our fertilizers are designed for efficiency, helping Saudi farmers maximize maize yields sustainably. For tailored solutions, visit our page and contact us—we’ve supported farmers across 50 countries with proven results.