Understanding Nitrogen Use Efficiency
Nitrogen Use Efficiency is the measure of how effectively crops absorb and utilise applied nitrogen. High efficiency means more of the nutrient is taken up by plants, leading to improved growth, stronger yields, and reduced environmental losses. With regulations tightening and the cost of inputs rising, achieving greater efficiency has become an essential part of nutrient management planning.
What Makes AdvaNShield Different
AdvaNShield is a liquid fertiliser technology that protects nitrogen from loss and supports longer availability in the soil. It uses proven inhibitors and stabilisers to reduce the conversion of nitrogen into forms that can be lost through leaching or volatilisation. By slowing these processes, nitrogen remains in a form that plants can use for longer, improving nitrogen use efficiency and helping farmers get more value from each application.
Protection Against Nitrogen Loss
One of the main challenges in nitrogen management is loss through ammonia emissions and nitrate leaching. These not only reduce the amount of nutrient available to the crop but can also impact environmental quality. AdvaNShield reduces these losses by maintaining higher levels of nitrogen in the ammonium form, which crops can absorb more effectively. This leads to better uptake and less wastage.
Meeting Current Regulatory Standards
The introduction of “Option 4” regulations has changed how and when urea-based fertilisers can be applied. AdvaNShield meets the Red Tractor standard for ammonia emission reduction, meaning it can be added to Liquid Nitrogen and Liquid Nitrogen + Sulphur grades for application after 1 April to meet compliance requirements.
Technology That Supports Efficiency
AdvaNShield uses NutriSphere-NL, a patented inhibitor technology combining maleic acid and itaconic acid. These compounds limit the availability of certain metals needed by soil bacteria to convert nitrogen into gaseous or leachable forms. The result is a slower conversion rate and more consistent nitrogen availability for the crop. This technology is compatible with all sulphur grades, providing flexibility in nutrient programmes.
AdvaNShield and Yield Benefits
Field trials have shown that AdvaNShield can support yield improvements of up to 4% compared to untreated nitrogen sources. This is achieved through a combination of better nutrient availability, reduced losses, and improved timing flexibility. In some situations, the protection it provides means a single nitrogen application can meet the needs of the crop, reducing the number of passes required and saving time and fuel.
Practical Advantages for Growers
AdvaNShield offers practical advantages beyond nitrogen use efficiency. It provides the option to upgrade standard grades to protected versions at dispatch if applications are planned for after 1 April. This means farmers can buy unprotected products for early-season use and still remain compliant if field conditions delay operations. The product is also stable in storage, so it can be held between seasons without loss of effectiveness.
Supporting Sustainable Farming Practices
By improving nitrogen use efficiency, AdvaNShield reduces the risk of nutrient losses to the environment. This supports sustainability goals and aligns with market and regulatory expectations for lower emissions. The technology does not harm beneficial soil organisms, making it a responsible choice for long-term soil health. It also helps farmers balance productivity with environmental stewardship.
Integrating AdvaNShield into Crop Nutrition Plans
AdvaNShield can be incorporated into a wide range of liquid fertiliser formulations, including those containing sulphur. It fits into existing nutrient management strategies and can be used with other best practices such as accurate soil testing and variable rate application. Working with FACTS-qualified advisers helps tailor application rates and timings for maximum benefit.
Why It Matters Now
With fertiliser regulations becoming more restrictive and costs continuing to influence production decisions, technologies that improve nitrogen use efficiency are increasingly valuable. AdvaNShield provides both a regulatory and agronomic advantage, allowing farmers to meet compliance rules while getting the most from their nitrogen investment. Starting to integrate it into plans for the coming season can help secure both yield and sustainability goals.
Are you looking to switch to liquid fertiliser? Contact Nitrasol today to get started.
