Assessment of Chemical Fertilizer Use in Mustard Production: Evidence from Kurigram District, Bangladesh

Agricultural practices in the Kurigram district of Bangladesh remain largely traditional, with most farmers relying on plows, ladders, and cattle for crop production and processing. As a result, this district of Bangladesh has been a scene of poverty and persistent food insecurity. This study examines the extent and determinants of chemical fertilizer overuse in mustard cultivation in Nageswari Upazila, Kurigram, Bangladesh. Based on a survey of 250 mustard farmers, the findings reveal that 78.33% applied chemical fertilizers in excess of the recommended doses. Specifically, 95.2% overused Urea, 94.8% TSP, 89.6% MP, 66% Gypsum, and 100% Zinc sulphate—while 24.4% applied Boric acid, which is not officially recommended. The average application per bigha was 36.98 kg for Urea, 34.20 kg for TSP, and 15.57 kg for MP, all significantly exceeding the standard guidelines. Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression analysis showed that age, education, farming experience, and agricultural training significantly reduce overuse (p < 0.01), while farm size and extension contact were not significant predictors. Additionally, 56.8% of farmers relied on personal experience to determine fertilizer use, with only 9.2% consulting specialists. Multicollinearity tests confirmed the robustness of the regression model. These findings highlight the urgent need for improved farmer education, effective extension services, and local policy enforcement to reduce excessive fertilizer application and mitigate its environmental and economic consequences.