How should water-soluble fertilizers be applied to be reasonable? A detailed explanation of the correct method
Water-soluble fertilizer is a multi-element compound fertilizer that can completely dissolve in water. It dissolves rapidly in water, is more easily absorbed by crops, and its absorption and utilization rate is relatively high. More importantly, it can be applied in facility agriculture such as sprinkler and drip irrigation, achieving integrated water and fertilizer management, and attaining the efficiency of saving water, fertilizer and labor. Generally speaking, water-soluble compound fertilizer formulas are more reasonable, nutrients are more diverse, and they are more targeted to crops. However, unreasonable use in production can also cause fertilizer waste or even negative effects. The following suggestions are provided regarding the reasonable application of water-soluble fertilizers.
Apply in small amounts multiple times
Applying in small amounts multiple times is the most important fertilization principle for water-soluble fertilizers. It conforms to the characteristic of plant roots absorbing nutrients continuously and reduces leaching losses caused by a single large application. Applying in small amounts multiple times is the most important reason for the high utilization rate of water-soluble fertilizers. Generally, the amount used each time is 3~6 kg per mu.
Pay attention to nutrient balance
Water-soluble fertilizers are usually applied by watering, drenching, or through irrigation equipment. Especially under drip irrigation fertilization conditions, roots grow densely and in large quantities. At this time, dependence on soil nutrient supply decreases, and plants rely more on nutrients provided through drip irrigation. There are higher requirements for the reasonable proportion and concentration of nutrients. If the formula is unbalanced, it will affect crop growth.
Safe application
Prevent fertilizer from burning leaves and roots, especially in sprinkler irrigation and micro-sprinkler irrigation fertilization, where leaf burn is prone to occur. Usually, control the EC value of the fertilizer solution at 1~3 ms/cm, or dissolve 1~3 kg per cubic meter of water, equivalent to diluting 350~1000 times. Or spray clear water once after spraying fertilizer. When drenching and watering, also prevent excessive concentration from burning roots and seedlings. Some growers added 70 kg of water-soluble fertilizer to one cubic meter of water and drenched pineapple, causing root death and blackening. The safest way in production is to use a small amount of fertilizer for testing, and when damage to leaves is found, reduce the concentration for application. For some large growers, purchasing a handheld conductivity meter to monitor fertilizer concentration is a feasible method. It is especially more practical for areas with high salt concentration in water sources.