The value of foliar feeding was proven by research at Michigan
State University many years ago. A project partially funded by
the Atomic Energy Commission used radioactive tagged nutrients
to prove that a plant can feed through the leaves. In fact, they
proved that it is eight to ten times more effective to feed a
plant that way as far as the amount of nutrients necessary to
do the same job. While we believe foliar feeding is useful and
effective in correcting deficiencies, we use it primarily to increase
yield and quality by overcoming the limitations of the soil and
its ability to transfer nutrients into the plant.
Best Time To Foliar Feed
Between 7 and 10 am or after 5 pm when the plant’s stomata (the
small opening on the underside of the leaves) are open. However,
if the temperature is 25°C or above at 7am don’t bother to spray,
as it will have little effect – the stomata will be closed to
help the plant hold water. The best temperature is around 21ºC.
If the weather is very hot and dry, then you may have to spray
between 2 and 4 am.
All foliar sprays should have a pH between 6.2 and 7.0 where possible.
Usually you want sweeter (alkaline) sprays for young plant growth
and sour (acid) to make fruit, grain, ears etc.
If foliar feeding is done correctly, you should see visual results
in approximately 48 hours. Always mix sprays as thoroughly as
possible; apply in as fine a mist as possible. The ultimate sprayer
is a mist sprayer that homogenizes the solution and applies it
in a fine mist across a large swath.
The "law of little bits" always applies to foliar feeding.
It is better to spray small amounts of material
more frequently than it is to drench large amounts of material.
Always be careful of burning the leaf when bright sun is allowed
to shine on the spray. Many Products have an organic chelating
agent therefore the inclusion of a wetting agent may not be required
as the chelating agent acts as a wetting agent. It is also important
to use a wetting agent with most sprays to “spread” them out preventing
beads of water from forming on the leaves and to provide more
even coverage.
VALARMIN.
Fertigation Rates
Please consult your local THRISUL
agronomist. Due to the extreme variance in soil conditions, fertigation
rates will vary greatly. The local knowledge of your particular
situation is imperative to obtain the correct rates. Contact your
local THRISUL Agronomist or Adviser.
