The exact amount of urea fertilizer you should use depends primarily on the nitrogen (N) needs of your plants or soil and the size of the area you plan to fertilize. According to the WVU Extension, for an area of 100 square feet, the recommended amount of urea varies based on the relative nitrogen need.
Urea Application Rates Based on Nitrogen Need
The following table, based on information from WVU Extension, outlines the recommended annual amount of urea (46-0-0 analysis) to apply per 100 square feet, correlated with different nitrogen requirement levels:
| Relative N Need | N Class (Pounds N per Acre per Year) | Ounces Urea per 100 Square Feet per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 75 | 6 |
| Medium | 100 | 8 |
| 125 | 10 | |
| High | 175 | 14 |
Source: WVU Extension - Urea Fertilizer
Understanding Your Nitrogen Needs
To use this table, you first need to determine the "Relative N Need" for your specific situation. This is often related to:
- The type of plants you are growing: Different crops, grasses, or ornamentals have varying nitrogen requirements.
- Soil test results: A soil test can indicate your soil's current nitrogen levels and nutrient-holding capacity, helping determine if supplemental nitrogen is necessary.
The values in the table provide the total amount of urea to be applied over the entire year for a 100 square foot area. It's often recommended to split the total annual amount into multiple smaller applications throughout the growing season rather than applying it all at once. This helps prevent nitrogen loss and provides a more consistent supply to the plants.
Remember that these are general guidelines. Adjustments may be needed based on specific soil conditions, plant performance, and local extension recommendations.
