Liquid fertilizers

Liquid fertilization, also called fertigation, uses very soluble nutrient carriers that
are dissolved in water, forming concentrated liquids, which are injected into irrigation
systems. Nutrients can be applied through trickle or overhead systems, and can vary in
concentration and composition.
Liquid fertilization poses advantages and disadvantages. Advantages include
uniform distribution and relative ease of application. Liquid fertilization programs can be
finely tuned to the nutritional requirements of containerized nursery stock, unlike other
fertilizers whose nutrient release may not match plant needs. Fertilizer application may
be automated, decreasing labor costs.
Disadvantages of fertigation include the inefficiency of application when
overhead irrigation systems are used, and the initial expense of proportioning equipment.
Trickle and Spray
Trickle irrigation systems are noted for their efficiency, reducing the likelihood of
nutrient migration from the site of application. Overhead irrigation is a much less
efficient delivery method, since much of the fertilizer applied falls between containers.
This increases the risk of nutrient migration from the site of application, resulting in a
negative impact on the environment.
Liquid fertilizers may be applied at several different fertilizer concentrations.
Stronger concentrations (250-400 ppm N) can be applied with each watering. Reduce
application rates for young or newly transplanted nursery stock, slow-growing narrowleaf evergreens, and members of the genus Ericaceae. Well-drained media require more
frequent applications than poorly drained media.
Proportioning Devices
Liquid fertigation can be accomplished through a proportioning device that injects
concentrated fertilizer solutions into the irrigation system. Although the preliminary cost
of equipment is high, automation of this kind prevents excessive ongoing labor costs.

Two basic types of proportioners are available, those that operate by positive
displacement and those that employ the Venturi system.
Displacement proportioners:

Introduce a calculated amount of concentrated fertilizer stock solution into the

irrigation system to mix with a measured amount of irrigation water.

Constant water flow rate must be maintained to preserve the correct ratio of water
to fertilizer concentrate.

Irrigation water must be separated from the fertilizer stock solution to prevent
dilution of the fertilizer concentrate.
Venturi-type proportioners:

Allow a measured amount of concentrated fertilizer solution to be mixed into the

irrigation line.

In order to maintain a constant fertilizer: water ratio at various pressures, the rate
of fertilizer injection should coincide with the irrigation water flow rate.

Venturi-type proportioners with regulating valves allow for constant dispensing of

the fertilizer even when changes in the irrigation pressure line exist.

Proportioners should be chosen which accommodate the needs of the nursery.

Calculate the capacity of the irrigation system, dilution ratio, solubility of the fertilizer to
be used, and determine if a mobile proportioner is required before choosing a
proportioner.
Using a soluble fertilizer to prepare the stock solution allows for proper functioning
of the proportioner.

To enhance solubility, dissolve and stir the fertilizer in hot water (@ 150 degrees
F).

Prepare the stock solution in a plastic or fiberglass container.

Use dyes in the fertilizer solution to accurately monitor the rate of mixing
concentrated fertilizer solution with the irrigation water and fertigation itself .

Excellent for plants already rooted, in pots or in your garden, liquid fertilizers
allow you to continue feeding your plants after they are established. Liquid fertilizers
generally have a much quicker release than organic dry fertilizers, so you can save that
special plant immediately if need be. Most of these fertilizers can also be used in
hydroponic systems.
Earth Juice Microblast

Earth Juice Microblast is a proprietary liquid micronutrient formula to be used to prevent

and correct micronutrient deficiencies. Contains Magnesium 0.50%; Boron 0.02%;
Cobalt 0.0005%; Iron 0.10%; Manganese 0.05%; Molybdenum 0.0005%; and Zinc
0.05% in an organic base. Naturally buffered for assured plant absorption. May be
watered in or used as a foliage spray. Use 2 tsp. Earth Juice Microblast / gallon of water.

Ingredients: Kelp meal, magnesium sulfate, borax, cobalt sulfate, ferrous sulfate,
manganese sulfate, sodium molybdate and zinc sulfate.
Earth Juice Catalyst

Earth Juice Catalyst is a premium organic nutrient additive that encourages compact
branching, stimulates optimal fruiting sites, and triggers early yields. Contains enzymes,
hormones, vitamins, amino acids, nutrients and surfactants to complete your fertilization
program. Catalyst conditions soils and hydroponic solutions for better nutrient
availability. Best to use in conjunction with other NPK fertilizers. Mix 3 tbsp. per gallon
of water. OMRI Listed for use in organic production.
Ingredients: Oat bran, kelp, wheat malt, molasses, and yeast.
Grow Big Liquid Plant Food

Fox Farm Grow Big Liquid Plant Food (6-4-4) is a comprehensive blend of major, minor
and micro-nutrients. It is formulated to promote spectacular growth, instant green-up and
color intensity of blossoms, Great for roses, tomatoes, veggies, herbs and lawns. The
name says it all...expect exceptional results from Grow Big! A little goes a long way. Mix
1-3 tsp. per gallon of water. Organic based concentrate.

Ingredients: Ammonium Sulfate, Ammonium Phosphate, Urea, Blood Meal, Potassium

Nitrate, Potassium Sulfate, Earthworm Castings, Norwegian Kelp, iron EDTA, zinc
EDTA, manganese EDTA, copper EDTA, chelating agent, Di-sodium Ethylene-diamine
Tetra Acetate (EDTA), sodium borate, and sodium molybdate.
Liquid Organic Fertilizers
Use liquid fertilizers to give your plants a light nutrient boost or snack every
month or even every two weeks during the growing season. Simply mix a tankful of
foliar

spray,

and

spray

all

your

plants

at

the

same

time.

Plants can absorb liquid fertilizers through both their roots and through leaf pores. Foliar
feeding can supply nutrients when they are lacking or unavailable in the soil, or when
roots are stressed. It is especially effective for giving fast growing plants like vegetables
an extra boost during the growing season. Compost tea and seaweed extract are two
common

examples

of

organic

foliar

fertilizers.

Some foliar fertilizers such as kelp are rich in micronutrients and growth hormones.
These foliar sprays also appear to act as catalysts, increasing nutrient uptake by plants.
You can make your own liquid fertilizer by brewing up compost or manure in water.
Applying liquid fertilizers: With flowering and fruiting plants, foliar sprays are most
useful during critical periods (such as after transplanting or during fruit set) or periods of
drought or extreme temperatures. For leaf crops, some suppliers recommend biweekly
spraying.

When using liquid fertilizers, always follow label instructions for proper dilution and
application methods. You can use a surfactant, such as coconut oil or a mild soap (1/4
tsp. per gallon of spray), to ensure better coverage of the leaves. Otherwise the spray may
bead up on the foliage and you won't get maximum benefit. Measure the surfactant
carefully; if you use too much, it may damage plants. A slightly acid spray mixture is
most effective, so check your spray's pH. Use small amounts of vinegar to lower pH and
baking

soda

to

raise

it.

Aim

for

pH

of

6.0

6.5.

Any sprayer or mister will work, from hand-trigger units to knapsack sprayers. Set your
sprayer to emit as fine a spray as possible. Never use a sprayer that has been used to
apply herbicides. The best times to spray are early morning and early evening, when the

liquids will be absorbed most quickly and won't burn foliage. Choose a day when no rain
is forecast and temperatures aren't extreme. Spray until the liquid drips off the leaves. Be
sure to concentrate the spray on leaf undersides, where leaf pores are more likely to be
open. You can also water in liquid fertilizers around the root zone. A drip irrigation
system can carry liquid fertilizers to your plants. Kelp is a better product for this use, as
fish emulsion can clog the irrigation emitters.