Yes. Nousbo HI-COTE is an innovative product that commercialized biodegradable polymer coating technology for the first time in Korea. In recognition of this technological achievement, it was selected as the “2025 Korea’s No. 1 Premium Fertilizer.”

HI-COTE is designed to release the majority of its nutrients in line with the crop’s growing period. Therefore, when used at the recommended application rate, the likelihood of any negative impact on crops is very low.

The coating material slowly releases nutrients throughout the crop’s growing period and then fully decomposes under natural conditions such as soil temperature, moisture, and microbial activity. While it varies by environment, more than 80% of the coating disintegrates after 180 days under composting conditions, making it visually indistinguishable from the soil.

Yes, it can. HI-COTE can be used effectively on a wide range of horticultural and upland crops including cucurbits, solanaceous crops, and leafy vegetables, in addition to rice. Please refer to the recommended application rates by crop type.

The initial purchase price may be higher than conventional fertilizers. However, considering the overall reduction of more than 30% in total fertilizer use and the savings in labor and fuel costs from fewer applications, it can actually be more cost-effective overall. We are also working to reduce the burden on farmers through government subsidy programs.

For rice cultivation, apply once as a base fertilizer using side-dressing. A single application eliminates the need for additional top dressings (tillering fertilizer, panicle fertilizer, etc.).

There are three major advantages:
1. Labor Savings: Instead of applying fertilizer multiple times (base dressing, top dressing, panicle dressing, etc.), a single application is all that’s needed, dramatically reducing time and labor.
2. Reduced Fertilizer Use: With very high nutrient-use efficiency, the same effect is achieved with less fertilizer than conventional products, lowering total usage.
3. Environmental Protection: Less nutrient runoff reduces waterway pollution; biodegradable coating means no plastic residue in the soil. Reduced nitrogen fertilizer use also contributes to low-carbon farming by decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.

Yes, you can rest assured. The coating material of HI-COTE is made from a biodegradable polymer resin that is 100% broken down by soil microorganisms. It solves the longstanding problem of conventional slow-release fertilizers leaving plastic shells in paddy fields after their effect is spent, eliminating concerns about soil contamination and microplastic generation.

Yes, absolutely. HI-COTE provides a steady supply of nutrients throughout the entire growing period, so a single application is sufficient. Field trials have shown that even with over 30% less fertilizer compared to conventional methods, yields were maintained at the same level or better.

HI-COTE is designed to delay nutrient release until the seed sprouting moment, ensuring that nitrogen is released in sync with the crop’s growth and nutrient uptake needs. This approach avoids any potential for seed burn or injury to young seedlings.

HI-COTE is designed to begin releasing nitrogen at the seed germination temperature, which is typically around 50 o F at the planting depth. Below this temperature, the release of nitrogen is very slow. The release rate increases gradually as the temperature rises, aligning with the crop’s nitrogen demand throughout the growing season.

HI-COTE requires some moisture to initiate the release process by dissolving the nitrogen inside the coating. However, the release rate is primarily controlled by soil temperature, not moisture levels. In drought conditions, the release process may slow if the soil becomes extremely dry. In wet conditions, HI-COTE continues to protect nitrogen effectively, maintaining a consistent release rate. This makes HI-COTE more reliable than conventional fertilizers and inhibitors, which can be adversely affected by excess moisture.

Yes, you can reduce the amount of nitrogen when using HI-COTE if applied correctly. Field research has shown that a one-time fall application of HI-COTE can maintain crop yields with a lower nitrogen application rate compared to conventional nitrogen sources. This efficiency allows for a reduction in the total amount of nitrogen used, leading to cost savings and improved environmental outcomes.

For fall applications, we recommend applying HI-COTE in the furrow, 2-3 inches deeper than where the seeds will be placed. This ensures effective nutrient release and good contact with the soil.

Yes, fall-applied Hi-Cote continues to work the following spring. We recommend applying HI-COTE 2-3 inches below where the spring seeds will be planted. The nutrients begin to release after the soil temperature reaches seed germination levels, typically about 2 to 3 weeks after planting. This ensures that the fertilizer follows the growth pattern of the plants and prevents burning the seeds.

• Temperature
  – Generally, when the temperature increases by 10°C from 25°C, the release rate doubles. However, this may vary depending on the coating material.

  For example, at 25°C: release period is 90 days / at 35°C: release period is 45 days.

  – Conversely, when the temperature decreases by 10°C from 25°C, the release rate decreases twice

  For example, at 25°C: release period is 90 days / at 15°C: release period is 180 days.

   

  – No release occurs at temperatures below 5°C

• Humidity
  – If there is no humidity, there will be no release. However, under soil moisture conditions, the release occurs adequately, ensuring no issues. In other words, under the soil moisture conditions conducive to crop growth, fertilizer release occurs sufficiently.

   

  – However, when applying fertilizer on the surface without burying it in the soil, the release depends on the humidity in the air, which may result in lower fertilizer release. Therefore, it is essential to apply the fertilizer in the soil

The release period is determined by the point at which 80% of the coated fertilizer components are released under conditions of 25°C and submersion.

(*The margin of error for the release period is ±10 days.)

• The current global utilization of CRFs hasn’t been extensive enough to trigger significant concerns about microplastics.
• Furthermore, dibbling fertilizers, applied directly to the root zone, minimize surface treatment or runoff, thereby substantially decreasing the chances of entering marine environments and mitigating related issues.

The polymer used in coated fertilizers does not decompose in the soil

• Currently, the coating material of all CRF fertilizers worldwide does not decompose in the soil.
• Although the global usage is still low, concerns about polymer decomposition are minimal. However, Nousbo has minimized polymer usage by reducing fertilizer application rates.
• Nevertheless, with the increasing use of CRFs or continued application, concerns about polymer issues arise. Therefore, Nousbo has jointly applied for a patent with South Korean government agencies for biodegradable coating of fertilizers that decompose in the soil.

• Products tailored to the fertilizer requirements of crops ensure that the amount applied is sufficient for adequate crop growth, thus avoiding any issues with soil nutrient deficiencies in the following year.

  –  However, the fertilizer application quantity may vary depending on the presence or absence of organic matter supply.

  If you provide us with information about the target crops and fertilizer quantities for crops other than those currently treated with CRF fertilizer, customized CRF fertilizer design is possible. Please discuss with Nousbo Co., Ltd.

Generally, products are tailored to the fertilizer requirements of the crop, so they are not significantly affected by soil fertilityth just a single application.

• Nitrogen: It is the component that has the greatest impact on crop growth, and even after the growing season ends, a significant amount is lost due to volatilization, leaching, and denitrification, leading to minimal accumulation in the soil. Therefore, it needs to be supplied annually at a certain rate. Hence, the presence of nitrogen-rich soils is not common, so recommending the application rate of CRF fertilizers poses no issues.
• Phosphorus, Potassium: These components are greatly influenced by soil fertility. However, potassium and phosphorus exist in the soil in an insoluble state, but as plants grow, their roots convert this insoluble form into an available form, resulting in minimal problems. Especially in Korea, there is an excessive accumulation of available phosphorus, so CRF fertilizers are formulated taking this into account.
• Additionally, these components (phosphorus, potassium, etc.) are being highly concentrated, leading to salt damage in greenhouse cultivation areas. However, using dibbling fertilizers minimizes the application rate, thereby reducing the risk of salt damage in greenhouse cultivation areas.

Through hundreds of trials in Korea, it has been confirmed that Nousbo’s currently available product can indeed last until harvest with just a single application.

– Sigmoid-type coating method ensures safety from early-stage nutrient burn even when applied to the root zone, and supplies more fertilizer during the growth phase, promoting excellent crop growth.

– Each nutrient (N, P, K) is released at rates tailored to the specific needs of the crop, ensuring that nutrients are available when needed.

– Products are formulated with the necessary nutrients for different types of crops: vegetables, leafy greens, and grains.

* While local temperatures and cultivation methods may vary slightly, adjusting the application rate slightly according to the crop’s growth needs should ensure a successful harvest without any issues.

Product Characteristics Comparison

Linear Type	Sigmoid Type
Release period is controlled by the thickness of the coating. A thinner coating results in faster release, while a thicker coating extends the release period.	Coating method remains the same, but different coating materials are used to implement Sigmoid-type coating technology.
Nousbo’s Controlled Release Fertilizers maximize nutrient content by varying the coating release period through differences in coating materials.	Nousbo’s Sigmoid coated fertilizers are produced using proprietary coating materials unique to Nousbo.

• Product Characteristics Comparison

1) Comparison between Nousbo’s Controlled Release Fertilizer and competitor’s products

①  Nousbo’s CRFs employ a sigmoid-type coating technology:

– Dibbling allows for fertilizer application to the root zone when seedlings are weak, ensuring gradual release of nutrients after crop establishment

– Fertilizer demand increases approximately two weeks after establishment, promoting crop growth by providing substantial nutrient release

② Issues with release of Linear-type competitive products:

– Excessive release during the seedling stage compared to root zone application

– Limited release after approximately two weeks post-establishment, leading to poor crop growth

 

2) BB-type fertilizers release nutrients according to crop requirements.

• Each crop requires specific amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium at different times

• CRF fertilizers coat each nutrient separately, allowing for customized nutrient supply based on crop needs and timing

• Tailored nutrient release minimizes fertilizer usage

 

3) Customized Products for Different Crops

• Each crop has unique fertilizer requirements, timing preferences, and growth periods

• CRFs offer adjustable nutrient release rates through Sigmoid and BB types, enabling product design tailored to crop growth stages

• Competitor’s products typically come in Linear and Mono types, providing steady N, P, K supply without custom design capabilities or the ability to increase fertilizer supply during periods of high crop nutrient demand.

• Directly applying fertilizer to the root zone of crops significantly reduces the amount of fertilizer needed.

  

  — By supplying only the necessary amount of fertilizer to the root zone of the plants, we have eliminated the unnecessary use of fertilizer that crops cannot utilize in conventional fertilization practices. (There is no fertilizer application between rows and between plants.)

  – When conventional fertilizers are applied to the root zone, crops may die or suffer harm. However, with Nousbo’s CRF dibbling method, which employs a unique coating technique, only the required amount of nutrients is released when needed by the crops, minimizing any harm.

 Advantage 1

• CRF is a fertilizer that maximizes fertilizer efficiency and provides nutrients throughout the crop’s entire growth period with a single dibbling application.

  – CRF is a labor-saving fertilizer that reduces the fertilization frequency for pepper cultivation by 75% compared to conventional practices.
  Conventional Cultivation Method] 4 fertilizations per season (1 basal dressing + 3 top dressings)  ⇨  CRF Fertilization] 1 dibbling application (CRF dibbling application)
  

     Advantage 2

• Maximizing fertilizer efficiency to the highest global standards
  For conventional fertilizer application, the nitrogen utilization rate by crops is approximately 27%. However, for CRF dibbling method fertilizers, the utilization rate is around 83%.

     Advantage 3

• CRF fertilizer minimizes environmental energy consumption

  – CRF fertilizer optimizes nutrient utilization, reducing fertilizer usage and minimizing issues such as greenhouse gas emissions and nonpoint source pollution.
  – According to the Gyeonggi-do Agricultural Research and Extension Services, CRF fertilizer reduces greenhouse gas (N2O) emissions by an average of 78% and nonpoint source pollution by an average of 89% compared to traditional methods.
  (*Nonpoint source pollution: Pollution that occurs when rainwater washes trash, animal waste, motor oil, sediment, and fertilizer components into rivers or the sea through widespread discharge pathways.)

 

     Advantage 4

• Technology that no one else in the world has achieved

  Typically, applying nitrogen fertilizer directly to the root zone can cause damage due to over-supply. However, Nousbo’s CRF fertilizer, which boasts unique products and advanced technology, releases nutrients in sync with the crop’s growth, preventing any damage to the crops.

Release Mechanism of CRF

① Moisture enters the capsule
② Moisture causes the fertilizer to dissolve, creating pressure inside the coating
③ Increased pressure inside the coating causes the dissolved fertilizer solution to be released from the coating.
④ The above process (②~③) repeats continuously, resulting in the release of fertilizer from the coating.

Visit www.hi-cote.com for detailed information on Nousbo CRF features.

In addition to CRF, Nousbo produces and exports a full range of fertilizers suitable for basal application, top dressing, foliar feeding, and fertigation.
If you need fertilizer recommendations for specific crops, please visit our website or contact our customer service team for detailed guidance.

• Nousbo’s CRF is designed to release nutrients gradually in sync with the crop’s growth cycle. When combined with the precise environmental control systems of automated smart farms, it can significantly enhance the efficiency and accuracy of fertilizer management. This contributes to reduced labor, improved nutrient use efficiency, and consistent, healthy crop growth.
• Labor Reduction: With just a single application, CRF provides long-term nutrient supply, eliminating the need for frequent fertilization. This significantly reduces the workload for managers, especially in smart farms where labor costs are high.
• Improved Productivity and Quality: CRF provides a steady supply of nutrients at the right times during the plant’s growth, helping crops grow strong and healthy without suffering from nutrient shortages or excess. This results in higher yields and more consistent crop quality.
• Precise Nutrient Management: By connecting with smart farm sensors and data analysis systems, farmers can more accurately monitor residual nutrients in the soil and understand how crops absorb them. This makes it possible to choose the right CRF release period and manage fertilization more efficiently and effectively.
• Nousbo’s CRF releases nutrients slowly over time, resulting in significantly lower nutrient losses through leaching and volatilization compared to conventional quick-release fertilizers. This helps protect soil and groundwater from contamination and also reduces the carbon emissions associated with fertilizer production and transportation. It’s an eco-friendly solution that aligns well with the goals of sustainable smart farming.

The Linear type releases nutrients at a steady rate over time, regardless of the plant’s growth stage. In contrast, the Sigmoid type is designed to match the crop’s growth pattern—releasing fewer nutrients in the early stages and gradually increasing the release during the active growth phase. Nousbo has extensive expertise in developing and applying the Sigmoid type for optimal crop performance.

• Nousbo CRF is a type of controlled release fertilizer, but with more precise and predictable nutrient release control. Nutrient particles are coated with a polymer to regulate release timing.
• Precise release control: Nutrient release timing can be precisely controlled—from 30 to 360 days—by adjusting the thickness and type of coating used.
• Optimized Nutrient Supply: Nutrients are released in sync with the crop’s growth stages, maximizing fertilizer effectiveness.
• High nutrient use efficiency: By delivering nutrients only when the plant can absorb them, fertilizer losses are minimized and nutrient uptake is maximized.
• Diverse Nutrient Composition: In addition to nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, our CRF products include a variety of micronutrients, allowing for the one-time application of all essential nutrients needed by the crop.
• Reducing the number of fertilizer applications lowers labor requirements, while improved nutrient use efficiency reduces the need for equipment and minimizes environmental pollution (such as leaching into groundwater and volatilization into the air). It also helps prevent salt accumulation and fertilizer damage, ultimately contributing to higher crop quality and yields.

Nousbo offers a diverse range of fertilizers suitable for rice, field crops, fruit trees, and greenhouse crops. We provide customized fertilizers based on each crop’s characteristics and growth cycle. For crop-specific recommendations, please visit our website or contact our customer service center.

HI-COTE is a “slow-release fertilizer” that sustains its fertilizing effect all the way to harvest with just a single application. The fertilizer is coated with a special biodegradable polymer resin, designed to release nutrients gradually when crops need them most. Additionally, its 100% biodegradable coating helps reduce plastic pollution in farmland.

Nousbo is committed to developing environmentally friendly fertilizers that support sustainable agriculture. Our controlled-release technologies help reduce nutrient loss, minimizing pollution of soil and water. We also provide a diverse range of organic fertilizers suitable for organic farming, and continue to invest in research and development to lessen environmental impact.

Nousbo fertilizers are made with high-quality ingredients and are specially designed for each type of crop. We carefully mix the nutrients to match the crop’s growth stages, helping plants absorb them better and reducing waste. Our goal is to support sustainable farming by making fertilizers that are safe for the soil and water.