What are the differences between controlled-release fertilizer and slow-release fertilizer?

Release Date:

2019-09-06

Many farmers are unclear about the differences between controlled-release fertilizers and slow-release fertilizers. Although controlled-release fertilizers are widely used, market complexity often leads to confusion about fertilizer types. So, what are the key distinctions between controlled-release and slow-release fertilizers?

Many farmer users are not very clear when applying fertilizer. Controlled-release fertilizer What exactly is the difference between controlled-release fertilizer and conventional fertilizer? Although controlled-release fertilizer is a widely used type of fertilizer, the complexity of the market often leads many users to confuse different fertilizer categories. So, what distinguishes controlled-release fertilizer from… Slow-release fertilizer What are the differences?

What is controlled-release fertilizer?

Controlled-release fertilizers extend the decomposition and nutrient‑release period through coating, encapsulation, or the addition of inhibitors, thereby enhancing nutrient use efficiency and achieving longer fertilizer efficacy and increased agricultural yields. They are among the key fertilizers promoted by the Ministry of Agriculture. Common types of controlled-release fertilizers include sulfur‑coated (fertilizer‑encapsulated) products, resin‑coated formulations, and urease inhibitors; based on production processes, they can further be classified into compound, blended, and mixed types.

What is a slow-release fertilizer?

The term “release” refers to the process by which nutrients are transformed from chemical forms into bioavailable, plant‑readily absorbable forms (e.g., dissolution, hydrolysis, degradation). “Controlled release” means that the rate at which nutrient‑bearing chemicals are released is significantly slower than the rate at which soluble fertilizers, once applied to the soil, are converted into plant‑available forms. Consequently, organic nitrogen compounds that can be decomposed through biological or chemical processes—such as urea‑formaldehyde (UFs)—are commonly classified as controlled‑release fertilizers.

The difference between controlled-release fertilizer and slow-release fertilizer

First, both slow-release and controlled-release fertilizers exhibit a gradual nutrient release rate and prolonged efficacy; in this sense, there is no strict distinction between the two.

However, from the perspective of the mechanisms and effects governing the rate of nutrient release, there is a distinction between slow-release fertilizers and controlled-release fertilizers. Slow-release fertilizers rely on chemical and biological factors to retard the release of nutrients; during this process, the release rate is influenced by numerous external factors, including soil pH, microbial activity, soil moisture content, soil type, and irrigation volume.

Controlled-release fertilizers encapsulate water-soluble nutrients within a coating, enabling the gradual release of nutrients. When the coated fertilizer granules come into contact with moist soil, water from the soil permeates through the coating and dissolves a portion of the fertilizer. The resulting aqueous nutrient solution then diffuses outward through the microscopic pores in the coating at a slow but steady rate. Higher soil temperatures accelerate both the dissolution of the fertilizer and its passage through the coating, while thinner coatings facilitate faster penetration.

Second, in terms of the types of nutrients, the two also differ.

Most slow-release fertilizers are single‑nutrient products, with the primary type being slow‑acting nitrogen fertilizer—also known as long‑lasting nitrogen fertilizer—which exhibits very low solubility in water. Once applied to the soil, under the influence of chemical and biological processes, the fertilizer gradually breaks down, releasing nitrogen slowly to meet the crop’s nitrogen requirements throughout its entire growth period.

Controlled-release fertilizers are typically N‑P‑K compound fertilizers, often supplemented with micronutrients to provide a complete nutrient profile. Once applied to the soil, their release rate is governed solely by soil temperature. However, soil temperature also exerts a significant influence on plant growth: within a certain temperature range, as soil temperature rises, the release rate of the controlled-release fertilizer accelerates, while plant growth likewise speeds up, leading to an increased demand for nutrients.

Third, it is essential that the rate of nutrient release aligns with the nutrient requirements of plants at different growth stages. Slow-release fertilizers exhibit uneven nutrient release, and their release kinetics may not fully synchronize with crop nutritional demands; in contrast, controlled-release fertilizers more closely match the rate of nutrient uptake by plants, thereby meeting crop nutrient needs throughout various growth phases.

That concludes our explanation of the differences between controlled-release fertilizers and slow-release fertilizers. In addition, China Agricultural University advises farmers that when purchasing controlled-release fertilizers, they should not only buy from authorized retailers and opt for well-known brands, but also request proper proof of purchase.

CCTV.com reports: Against the backdrop of comprehensively advancing rural revitalization and accelerating agricultural modernization, agricultural scientific and technological innovation has become a key driving force for green agriculture. Leveraging the research platforms of Shandong Agricultural University, Shandong Nongda Fertilizer Technology Co., Ltd. has successfully developed a new functional foliar fertilizer called “Nongda Leaf Power.” Field trial data confirm that this product significantly enhances crop photosynthetic efficiency and improves fruit quality, offering a fresh solution for boosting agricultural productivity and quality.

2026-04-28

The postdoctoral proposal defense at Nongda Fertilizer Industry marks the beginning of a new chapter in agricultural research.

On April 21, the review meeting for the postdoctoral proposal defenses of Dr. Li Pei and Dr. Cong Ping was held at the Agricultural University Fertilizer Company. Distinguished experts—including Academician Xu Minggang from Shanxi Agricultural University, Professors Zhang Min and Wan Yongshan, Dean Zhu Ge Yuping from Shandong Agricultural University, and Minister Gao Xia of the Soil and Fertilizer Department at the Shandong Provincial Agricultural Technology Extension Center—gathered to jointly embark on a new chapter in agricultural research.

2026-04-28

The Fertilizer Branch of the China Agricultural University Alumni Association hosted a “Symposium on High-Quality Development of China’s Fertilizer Industry” in Sanya, jointly charting a new roadmap for industry transformation and talent cultivation.

On December 6–7, the Fertilizer Branch of the China Agricultural University Alumni Association hosted the “Symposium on High-Quality Development of China’s Fertilizer Industry” in Yazu, Sanya.

2026-02-03

Nongda Technology has become the first company from Shandong Province to list on the Beijing Stock Exchange in 2026.

Taian City has consistently regarded promoting corporate IPOs as a key lever in building a strong, new‑type industrial city, and has innovatively established working mechanisms such as leadership‑assigned oversight for listed companies, empowerment task forces, one‑stop service via a single official letter, and direct communication channels between disciplinary inspection authorities and enterprises.

2026-02-03

Shandong’s first IPO of the year! Shandong Agricultural University Technology listed on the Beijing Stock Exchange.

On January 28, Shandong Agricultural University Fertilizer Technology Co., Ltd. was listed on the Beijing Stock Exchange, becoming the first company in Shandong Province to debut on the A-share market this year.

2024-09-14

ERP office system

WeChat

Video

Agricultural University Fertilizer Industry

Agricultural University Humic Acid

Tel：+86-538-3529921

Tel：+86-400-607-6731

Email：sdndfybgs@163.com

What are the differences between controlled-release fertilizer and slow-release fertilizer?

Sorry，当前栏目暂无内容!

Sorry，The current column has no content!