The Rise of Smart Fertigation and Foliar Sprays in Mexico’s Modern Agriculture
In the Mexico fertilizers market, the application mode significantly influences nutrient efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and overall crop yield. Soil application is the predominant method, representing approximately 56 percent of total fertilizer usage. This method is widely utilized across key crops such as maize, wheat, and sugarcane, attributed to its simplicity, low implementation costs, and compatibility with both granular and compound fertilizers. Farmers in Central Mexico primarily rely on soil application, as it aligns with traditional farming practices and facilitates broad nutrient coverage over extensive cultivation areas. However, this approach encounters challenges, including nutrient loss through leaching and a lack of precision in nutrient delivery.
| Application Mode | Market Share (%) |
| Soil Application | 56 |
| Fertigation | 22.5 |
| Foliar Spray | 15 |
| Aerial Application | 6.5 |
Fertigation accounts for about 22.5 percent of the Mexico fertilizers market and is recognized as the fastest-growing application mode, especially in Northern and Central regions. This method combines fertilizer application with irrigation systems, ensuring precise nutrient delivery and enhancing water-use efficiency. Its adoption is increasing among commercial farmers who cultivate high-value crops under controlled irrigation, bolstered by government initiatives promoting water conservation and sustainable agricultural practices.
Foliar spray contributes approximately 15 percent of fertilizer applications, predominantly within the horticulture, fruit, and vegetable sectors. This method is employed to promptly address micronutrient deficiencies and to promote plant growth during critical developmental stages. It provides rapid nutrient absorption, making it ideal for short crop cycles and organic formulations.
Aerial application, representing a 6.5 percent share, remains limited but is steadily gaining popularity in large-scale plantations and challenging terrains. This method reduces labor costs while allowing for swift nutrient coverage, particularly in remote areas. Overall, the Mexico fertilizers market is experiencing a gradual transition from conventional soil applications toward more precision-driven fertigation and foliar methods, indicative of technological advancements and the increasing emphasis on efficient resource utilization within the country's agricultural sector.
