Share this
Fertilizer application in Saudi Arabia’s unique desert environment requires careful planning to maximize crop growth while conserving resources. At Olimpum, we’ve seen firsthand how proper techniques can transform yields, even in arid conditions. Whether you’re growing maize, dates, or vegetables, understanding how to apply fertilizer effectively is key. Let’s dive into the best methods for Saudi farmers, tailored to the Kingdom’s climate and soils.
Timing Your Application
In Saudi Arabia, timing is critical due to extreme heat and limited rainfall. Apply basal fertilizers like NPK blends at planting to give roots an early boost—spring (March–April) or fall (September–October) are ideal for most crops, avoiding peak summer heat. Top-dressing, such as with urea, works best during active growth phases—typically 4–6 weeks after planting for annuals like maize, or post-flowering for perennials like dates. Avoid late applications near harvest to prevent nutrient waste.
Application Methods
Saudi farmers rely on three main methods:
- Broadcasting: Spread granular fertilizer evenly across the soil, then incorporate it with a plow or rake. Ideal for pre-planting in small plots, but less efficient in windy conditions common in the Kingdom.
- Banding: Place fertilizer in rows near plant roots, about 5–10 cm deep. This targets nutrients where they’re needed, reducing waste—perfect for sandy soils in regions like Riyadh.
- Fertigation: Mix water-soluble fertilizers into drip irrigation systems, a game-changer in Saudi Arabia. It delivers nutrients directly to roots, minimizing evaporation loss in 40°C+ temperatures.
Adapting to Saudi Soils
The Kingdom’s soils are sandy, low in organic matter, and often saline. Incorporate compost or manure before chemical fertilizers to improve retention—about 5 tons per hectare is a good start. Use slow-release granules to combat leaching, and monitor salinity with irrigation water (often desalinated). Potassium-rich fertilizers help plants cope with salt stress, a tip we’ve refined at Olimpum.
Dosage and Safety
Follow soil test recommendations, but as a baseline, 200–400 kg/ha of NPK suits most crops, split into 2–3 applications. For fertigation, dissolve 1–2 kg of fertilizer per 1,000 liters of water, adjusting for crop needs. Wear gloves and masks when handling granules, and water immediately after applying to avoid burn—crucial under Saudi’s intense sun.
Why It Matters
Proper application boosts efficiency, critical in a nation pushing for agricultural self-sufficiency under Vision 2030. Overuse wastes resources and harms soil, while underuse stunts growth. At Olimpum, we’ve tailored our fertilizers for these conditions—visit our page and contact us for expert guidance.