Damage decreases as the distance from the seed is increased. This can be observed by the diagrams in Figure 1 which show a comparison between narrow placement and three types of different seed and fertilizer distribution patterns. The area of fertilizer release will have an effect on placement and mixing of fertilizer in the soil. If the fertilizer is in the same flow pattern as the seed, little mixing occurs unless a spread pattern is employed. However, if the fertilizer is released separate from the seed, to the side, below or behind the seed, greater soil mixing will occur, reducing the potential for fertilizer damage.
Granular materials remain and react close to the area where placed.
If the granular material is adequately mixed with the soil, the germination damage is minimized. Liquid and especially gaseous materials will move farther in the soil from the point of placement. N movement in the soil is controlled by texture, which determines the voids or pore space where water or air can move. Liquid and gaseous materials can be placed away from the seed and still move to the seed to cause damage. The extent of the damage is controlled by the reaction of the fertilizer with the soil and water, which are controlled by texture.