What time of year should you fertilize your fields?

Application timing varies greatly depending on location, type of crop, soil type, plant nutrient to be applied, and farming methods. Generally speaking, you should apply nutrients in such manner as the plant can most effectively utilize it, yet not lose the nutrient through soil erosion or leaching.

For example, in North America, phosphorus and potassium can be applied in the fall before a crop is planted, whereas nitrogen is best left to spring or summer applications.