Which potassium source is typically avoided for bagged fertilizers due to its hygroscopic nature?

The correct answer highlights Muriate of Potash, often avoided for bagged fertilizers due to its hygroscopic nature. Hygroscopic materials have the ability to absorb moisture from the air, which can cause clumping or caking in fertilizer products. This characteristic makes them less desirable in bagged forms where easy flow and application are key.

Bagged fertilizers need to be user-friendly, allowing for easy handling and spreading. When potassium sources like Muriate of Potash absorb moisture, they compromise the quality and usability of the product, leading to potential difficulties during application. Therefore, producers tend to favor potassium sources that are less hygroscopic, such as Sulphate of Potash or Potassium Nitrate, which maintain their free-flowing characteristics even in varied humidity conditions.

In summary, Muriate of Potash's hygroscopic nature is the primary reason it is typically avoided in bagged fertilizers, emphasizing the importance of product performance and usability in nutrient management practices.