Nitrate/ammonium imbalance

To correct a nitrate/ammonium imbalance in a regenerative agriculture system, you can consider the following approaches ;

Adjust fertilizer application: a. If there is an excess of nitrates, reduce or avoid applying nitrate-based fertilizers and focus on using organic fertilizers. b. If there is an excess of ammonium, reduce or avoid applying ammonium-based fertilizers and focus on using organic fertilizers. Note of caution : When ammonia-heavy amendments are applied, they can quickly converted to nitrate in a few weeks. Soil tests usually show higher nitrate than ammonium levels due to this chemical process. Continuously adding ammonium based on low soil test levels can lead to nitrogen over-application and less resilient crops. High nitrogen environments are favourable for powdery mildew, aphids, and other pests, as evidenced by the plant being crushed by powdery mildew. Nitrogen application should be based on crop requirement, existing organic matter, time of year, and soil nitrogen levels determined by soil testing. Sap or tissue analysis can provide additional insights.

Promote nitrification and denitrification processes: a. Nitrification converts ammonium to nitrates. Ensure proper aeration and moisture levels in the soil to encourage nitrifying bacteria. b. Denitrification converts nitrates to nitrogen gas. Incorporate carbon-rich materials (like crop residues or compost) to stimulate denitrifying bacteria.

Adjust soil pH: a. Nitrification is favoured in slightly acidic conditions (pH 6.0-8.0), while denitrification occurs more readily in slightly alkaline conditions (pH 7.0-8.5). b. Lime can be added to raise soil pH if it is too acidic, or sulfur can be added to lower pH if it is too alkaline.

Enhance microbial activity: a. Promote a diverse and active soil microbial community by adding compost, biochar, or other organic amendments. b. Microbial activity can help regulate the conversion between ammonium and nitrate forms.

Crop rotation and cover crops: a. Rotate crops with different nitrogen requirements and uptake patterns to help balance the nitrogen forms in the soil. b. Incorporate cover crops that can scavenge excess nitrates or fix atmospheric nitrogen.

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