Which Fertilizer Is Better—DAP or NPK? A Complete Guide for Farmers

Krishi Dunia

• 23 Nov, 2025 11:49 AM IST ,
• Updated Sun, 23 Nov 2025 03:08 PM

Choosing the right fertilizer has a direct impact on crop yield, plant growth, and overall quality. While many farmers still rely heavily on DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate), agricultural experts now recommend using NPK fertilizers based on the specific nutrient needs of each crop.

What Does DAP Fertilizer Contain?

DAP provides two primary nutrients:

• Phosphorus – 46%
• Nitrogen – 18%

However, it does not contain important nutrients such as Potash and Sulphur. The absence of these elements limits the crop’s overall quality, strength, and disease resistance.

Why Is NPK Fertilizer More Beneficial?

NPK fertilizers supply all three major nutrients—Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K)—in balanced proportions.
They are available in several combinations, including:

• 12:32:16
• 10:26:26
• 19:19:19
• 15:15:15
• 16:16:16

This balanced nutrient mix promotes:

• Better root and stem development
• Healthy flowering and fruit formation
• Improved crop quality
• Higher productivity

Which Fertilizer Should Be Used for Which Crop?

Cereals and pulses – NPK 12:32:16
Root, tuber and oilseed crops – NPK 10:26:26
Vegetables, fruits and flowers – NPK 16:16:16 or 15:15:15
Sugarcane and banana – NPK 15:15:15

These nutrient ratios are specifically designed to match the needs of different crop groups.

Which Is More Effective—DAP or NPK?

DAP remains a widely used traditional fertilizer, but it provides only limited nutrition.
NPK, on the other hand, offers balanced and complete nutrition, resulting in:

• Better yield
• Stronger and healthier crops
• Improved quality and higher income

Conclusion

When fertilizers are chosen according to the crop’s requirements, NPK is generally a more effective and beneficial option than DAP. Its balanced composition supports complete plant growth and enhances overall productivity.