Triple Superphosphate (0-46-0) vs Superphosphate (0-20-0): Compared
Triple superphosphate is more cost-effective and concentrated, making it the standard commercial choice. Regular superphosphate provides calcium and sulfur as secondary nutrients, which can benefit calcium-deficient soils without needing a separate amendment.
How Do Triple Superphosphate (0-46-0) and Superphosphate (0-20-0) Compare?
Triple Superphosphate (0-46-0) wins 3 of 5 categories. The breakdown below covers phosphorus content, secondary nutrients, cost efficiency, acidic soil benefit, storage and handling.
| Factor | Triple Superphosphate (0-46-0) | Superphosphate (0-20-0) |
|---|---|---|
Phosphorus Content 0-46-0 has more than double the phosphorus concentration, requiring much less product | ||
Secondary Nutrients 0-20-0 contains 20% calcium and 12% sulfur, valuable secondary nutrients not found in triple super | ||
Cost Efficiency Per pound of phosphorus delivered, triple superphosphate is significantly cheaper | ||
Acidic Soil Benefit The calcium in regular superphosphate helps buffer acidic soils, reducing the need for separate lime application | ||
Storage and Handling Higher concentration means less product to store and transport for the same phosphorus delivery |
When Should You Choose Triple Superphosphate (0-46-0)?
Choose Triple Superphosphate (0-46-0) when you prioritize phosphorus content, cost efficiency, storage and handling. 0-46-0 has more than double the phosphorus concentration, requiring much less product
- Phosphorus Content: 0-46-0 has more than double the phosphorus concentration, requiring much less product
- Cost Efficiency: Per pound of phosphorus delivered, triple superphosphate is significantly cheaper
- Storage and Handling: Higher concentration means less product to store and transport for the same phosphorus delivery
When Should You Choose Superphosphate (0-20-0)?
Choose Superphosphate (0-20-0) when you prioritize secondary nutrients, acidic soil benefit. 0-20-0 contains 20% calcium and 12% sulfur, valuable secondary nutrients not found in triple super
- Secondary Nutrients: 0-20-0 contains 20% calcium and 12% sulfur, valuable secondary nutrients not found in triple super
- Acidic Soil Benefit: The calcium in regular superphosphate helps buffer acidic soils, reducing the need for separate lime application
Sources
Source:Wikipedia: SuperphosphateSource:Clemson Cooperative Extension: PhosphorusLast updated: