Based on the provided reference, urea should be applied on sod crops when the atmosphere temperature is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Understanding the optimal timing for applying fertilizers like urea is crucial for their effectiveness and environmental responsibility. While urea application timing can depend on various factors including crop type, soil conditions, and climate, the provided reference gives specific guidance for application on sod crops related to temperature.
Key Timing Factor for Sod Crops
According to the reference, a primary condition for applying urea on sod crops is tied directly to ambient temperature:
- Apply urea on sod crops when atmosphere temperature is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Applying urea under cooler conditions, specifically below this 60°F threshold, helps minimize the potential for volatilization, which is the loss of nitrogen to the atmosphere as ammonia gas. This loss is more significant at higher temperatures, particularly on warm, moist soil surfaces.
Consideration for High pH Soils
The reference also includes important guidance regarding soil pH when broadcasting urea:
- When broadcasting urea on soils of high pH (above 7.5), incorporate the material into the soil as soon as possible.
This incorporation helps move the urea away from the soil surface, where the risk of ammonia volatilization is highest, especially in high pH environments which promote the conversion of urea to ammonia.
Summary of Application Conditions from Reference
Here is a quick summary of the conditions mentioned in the reference:
| Crop Type | Condition | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Sod crops | Atmosphere temperature is below 60°F | Apply urea (specifically mentioned timing) |
| All (when broadcasting on high pH soils) | Soil pH is above 7.5 | Incorporate material into soil as soon as possible |
Adhering to these conditions, as outlined in the reference, helps ensure that the applied urea is available to the plants and reduces potential nitrogen losses.
