Nitrate Fertilizers

• In 1903, calcium nitrate, the first N fertilizer, was originated. It wasn't until the 20th century that ammonium nitrate became an important fertilizer, and ultimately, the leader in fertilizer.
  
  

Phosphorus Fertilizers

• According to Garden Guides, modern chemical fertilizer production began in 1842 when Sir John Lawes summarized a process of treating phosphate rock with sulfuric acid to produce superphosphate. During the 1960s, ammonium phosphate fertilizers, the most extensive used today, gained popularity with improved manufacturing developments.
  
  

Potassium Fertilizers

• Potassium, or potash, fertilizer derived from wood ash and saltpeter. In 1861, the potassium fertilize industry began in Germany. Through the years, more deposits were discovered in other areas, enhanced methods improved the resource quality and high-grade potassium chloride is today's product.
  
  

Modern Production

• In the 1950s, fertilizer production changed to accommodate the use of granular fertilizers. Liquid and dry bulk fertilizers became popular to meet the large-scale production of the agriculture industry.
  
  

Development

• In 1933, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) was formed with a nationwide responsibility of civilizing the manufacture and use of fertilizer. More than 75 percent of chemical fertilizers produced in the United States are made using processes developed by TVA.