Protected urea fertiliser is ‘game-changer’ for farmers

More fertiliser manufacturers are launching urea products to meet forthcoming restrictions on ammonia emissions.

The so-called Option 4 rules mean growers spreading urea fertilisers beyond 1 April 2024 must apply products coated with urease inhibitors to reduce ammonia emissions.

Developed by BASF, new product Starbur has a patented coating to reduce ammonia losses by 98%. Other companies have launched products too. The include Origin Enhanced Nitrogen (OWN) from Origin Fertilisers; and YaraVera AmiPlus from Yara.

‘Premium solution’

“Starbur is more than just a urea product; it’s a game-changer for UK farmers,” said Will Ingham, supply chain manager at granular fertiliser specialists Glasson Fertilisers, which supplies Stabur in the UK.

“We’re providing a premium solution that not only meets legislative requirements but also enhances crop quality and yields and helps UK farmers protect the environment. No other protected urea product performs like Starbur,” added Mr Ingham.

“The unique, patented coating provides the highest reduction in ammonia emissions available on the market, with its two active ingredients lowering ammonia emissions by up to 98%, ensuring better nitrogen availability from urea for crops to optimise both yield and quality.”

Trials suggest a 4.6% yield uplift in wheat crops treated with Stabur compared to untreated urea. The product was launched at last autumn’s Croptec event, held at the National Agricultural Exhibition Centre, Warwickshire.

Meanwhile, Origin Fertilisers will discuss ways to  navigate the new rules at this month’s LAMMA event.

Mandy McAulay, marketing manager at Origin Fertilisers, says it is essential to understthe rules and requirements before buying urea.

“Although the change may be seen by some as further red tape, growers should be looking at it as a chance to explore different fertiliser options. Applying a protected urea treated with a urease inhibitor can increase fertiliser efficiency, spread accurately to 32m, and offer comparable returns.”