Frequently Asked Questions about ESN Smart Nitrogen.
What is ESN?
ESN is a controlled release nitrogen (N) fertilizer. It consists of a quality urea granule contained within a proprietary polyurethane coating. The N fertilizer is encapsulated and isolated from its surrounding environment which makes it unique from conventional nitrogen fertilizers. The analysis of ESN is 44-0-0.
How does ESN work?The unique polymer coating allows water to diffuse into the granule, dissolving the nitrogen within. The N liquefies, and remains within the coating.
Nitrogen release is driven by two factors; soil temperature and moisture. Moisture is required to liquefy the urea granule -- and the release rate of N remains relatively stable with increasing amounts of water. Increasing temperature is the principle factor that drives the N release through the polymer coating. The higher the temperature the greater the release rate.
How should ESN be handled?Care should be taken to minimize granule abrasion. Minimize excessive handling of the product. Belt conveyors are preferred, while screw augers, especially when operated at high speeds and low volumes, should be minimized.
Can ESN be blended with other fertilizers?Yes. ESN blends well with other fertilizers. To help avoid abrasion, add ESN to the blend last and mix for the minimum time required to achieve uniformity. The blend will remain dry and flowable.
How long can ESN be stored?Since ESN does not absorb moisture from the air, it will remain flowable throughout the season - regardless of temperature and humidity. ESN will not set-up in a bin and flows freely even after extended time in storage.
Is ESN recommended for use on all acres?ESN is designed for land that is at risk for N-loss and where nitrogen has been the limiting factor for growth. The added value of ESN may not be realized in soils that have other limiting factors such as compaction, drought, flooding, imbalance of other nutrients and excessively high or low pH. ESN does not correct existing problems in the soil other than the loss of N from traditional sources.
Does ESN have to be soil incorporated to work effectively?No. Tests show that ESN works very well when surface applied. However, when applied to very dry soil, ESN will not release as adequate moisture is required to initiate the process. For that reason, if a soil is being tilled it is advisable to incorporate ESN during the last pass.
Will ESN work in no-till corn?Yes. ESN performs very well in no-till corn. The ESN granules come to rest next to and slightly under the crop residue. The granules then begin to hydrate and in response to increasing temperature, will begin releasing N to the soil for crop uptake.
How should ESN be spread?ESN can be applied using both spinner and air flow machines. ESN should be double spread for uniformity when using a spinner because fertilizer tapers off at the edges of the spread pattern. Always ensure the spreader is properly calibrated to deliver the desired N rate.
Will ESN granules wash away in pounding rain?If surface water flow is strong enough to erode soil in conventional-till, or erode residue in no-till, it is strong enough to move ESN granules as well. ESN may be less prone to move during such rain if they previously received a moderate rain that firmed soil or residue contact.
