What is characterized as a low phosphorus availability fertilizer?

Bone meal is characterized as a low phosphorus availability fertilizer primarily due to its composition and how phosphorus is released in the soil. Bone meal typically has a lower soluble phosphorus content compared to other fertilizers like monoammonium phosphate (MAP), superphosphate, and diammonium phosphate (DAP), which are more readily available for plant uptake.

In the case of bone meal, the phosphorus is often bound in an organic form, which means that it needs to undergo microbial breakdown before it becomes available to plants. This slow release makes it beneficial for long-term soil health and provides a sustained source of nutrients over time, but it makes it less suitable for situations where immediate phosphorus availability is critical.

In contrast, fertilizers like MAP, superphosphate, and DAP are designed to provide phosphorus in a readily available format, making them quick-acting options for meeting plant nutrient needs. This characteristic of bone meal is why it is considered a low phosphorus availability fertilizer when compared to others that are more soluble and quickly absorbed by plants.