The farmers objected arguing that they wanted to use the fertiliser they trusted — DAP. Actually, NP fertiliser is more concentrated in nitrogen but weaker in phosphate. … The argument by extension officers that the NPK fertiliser is superior to DAP because the latter does not acidify soils is highly debatable.

What is DAP fertilizer used for?

DAP is used as a fertilizer. When applied as plant food, it temporarily increases the soil pH, but over a long term the treated ground becomes more acidic than before upon nitrification of the ammonium.

Is DAP harmful for plants?

As ammonium is released from dissolving DAP granules, volatile ammonia can be harmful to seedlings and plant roots in immediate proximity. This potential damage is more common when the soil pH is greater than 7, a condition that commonly exists around the dissolving DAP granule.