MAP
MAP stands for Monoammonium Phosphate. It is a widely used source of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) for plant nutrition. Here’s a brief overview:
Monoammonium phosphate (MAP) is a granulated fertiliser that is high in phosphorus content. Its chemical formula is NH4H2PO4. MAP is produced by reacting ammonia and phosphoric acid under controlled conditions.
MAP typically contains 11% nitrogen and 52% phosphorus, represented as P2O5, which makes it one of the most concentrated phosphorus fertilisers. Because of its high phosphorus content, MAP is beneficial during the early stages of plant growth when phosphorus uptake is crucial.
The nitrogen in MAP is in the form of ammonium (NH4+), which can be immediately used by plants. The presence of ammonium does not impact the pH of the surrounding soil, making MAP a good choice for soils that are slightly alkaline.
It’s important to note that, as with any fertiliser, correct usage of MAP should be based on a comprehensive soil test to understand nutrient requirements for the specific crop and soil conditions. This will ensure that the right type and amount of fertiliser are applied to maximize plant health and yield.