Every thriving garden, farm, or lawn depends on one crucial nutrient: nitrogen. As a key component of chlorophyll, proteins, and amino acids, nitrogen fuels lush foliage, strong stems, and bountiful harvests. But not all nitrogen fertilisers are created equal—some release nutrients too slowly, while others are costly or inefficient.
With the highest nitrogen content of any solid fertiliser (46%), Urea delivers a quick, concentrated nutrient boost that promotes vigorous plant growth. Whether you’re growing crops, maintaining a golf course, or nurturing a backyard vegetable patch, understanding how to use urea effectively can make all the difference in your garden’s success.
In this article, we’ll explore:
What is Urea 46-0-0 Fertiliser?
Why Nitrogen is Essential for Plant Growth
How Urea 46-0-0 Works in Soil
Benefits of Using Urea Fertiliser
Potential Drawbacks & How to Avoid Them
Best Practices for Applying Urea 46-0-0
Comparing Urea with Other Nitrogen Fertilisers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where to Buy Quality Fertilisers in Gold Coast
What is Urea 46-0-0 Fertiliser?
Urea (46-0-0) is one of the most widely used nitrogen fertilisers in agriculture and horticulture. With a high nitrogen content of 46%, it provides an efficient and cost-effective way to boost plant growth. Whether you’re growing crops, maintaining a lawn, or nurturing a home garden, urea can significantly improve yields and plant health.
Why Nitrogen is Essential for Plant Growth
Nitrogen is a critical nutrient for plants, playing a key role in:
Chlorophyll production – Essential for photosynthesis
Protein synthesis – Vital for plant cell growth
Leaf and stem development – Promotes lush, vigorous foliage
Without sufficient nitrogen, plants exhibit stunted growth, yellowing leaves (chlorosis), and poor yields. Urea 46-0-0 delivers a concentrated nitrogen source, making it ideal for correcting deficiencies quickly.
How Urea 46-0-0 Works in Soil
When applied, urea undergoes a transformation process:
Hydrolysis – Soil enzymes break urea into ammonium carbonate
Ammonia Volatilisation – If not incorporated into soil, nitrogen can be lost as ammonia gas
Nitrification – Ammonium converts into nitrate (NO₃⁻), the form plants absorb
Key Factors Affecting Urea Efficiency:
Soil pH – Works best in neutral to slightly acidic soils
Moisture – Requires water for hydrolysis
Temperature – Warmer soils speed up conversion
Benefits of Using Urea Fertiliser
High Nitrogen Concentration (46%)
More nitrogen per kilogram compared to other fertilisers like ammonium nitrate (34%) or ammonium sulfate (21%).
Cost-Effective
Lower transportation and storage costs due to high nutrient density.
Versatile Application
Suitable for broadcasting, foliar sprays (in diluted form), and fertigation.
Fast-Acting
Quickly corrects nitrogen deficiencies when properly applied.
Potential Drawbacks & How to Avoid Them
Ammonia Volatilisation
If left on the surface, urea can lose nitrogen as gas.
Solution: Incorporate into soil or apply before rainfall/irrigation.
Risk of Leaf Burn
High concentrations can damage plants if applied directly to foliage.
Solution: Dilute properly for foliar sprays and avoid hot, sunny conditions.
Temporary Soil Acidity
Urea decomposition may slightly acidify soil.
Solution: Monitor pH and use lime if necessary.
Best Practices for Applying Urea 46-0-0
Soil Incorporation
Till lightly after broadcasting to reduce nitrogen loss.
Timing Matters
Best applied during active growth phases (early spring for crops, growing season for lawns).
Correct Dosage
General recommendation: 100–200 kg per hectare for crops.
Lawns & gardens: 1–2 kg per 100 sqm (adjust based on soil tests).
Storage Tips
Keep in a dry, sealed container to prevent moisture absorption and caking.
Comparing Urea with Other Nitrogen Fertilisers
| Fertiliser Type | Nitrogen Content | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urea (46-0-0) | 46% | Cost-effective, high N content | Volatilisation risk |
| Ammonium Nitrate (34-0-0) | 34% | Less volatile, fast uptake | More expensive, regulated |
| Ammonium Sulfate (21-0-0) | 21% | Adds sulfur, good for alkaline soils | Lower N content |
| Calcium Nitrate (15.5-0-0) | 15.5% | Prevents soil acidification | Expensive, low N concentration |
The best choice depends on soil conditions, crop needs, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use urea for lawns?
Yes, but water immediately after application to prevent burning.
How often should I apply urea?
Every 4–6 weeks during the growing season, depending on plant needs.
Is urea organic?
No, it’s a synthetic fertiliser, though it’s derived from natural gas.
Can urea be mixed with other fertilisers?
Yes, but avoid mixing with lime or alkaline substances to prevent nitrogen loss.
Where to Buy Quality Fertilisers in Gold Coast
Looking for high-quality urea 46-0-0 fertiliser in Gold Coast? At Garden Nursery Products, we stock premium-grade fertilisers, pesticides, fungicides, and landscaping supplies to keep your garden thriving. Visit us today or shop online.
