If you're looking for an effective way to supply your greenhouse plants with plant nutrients, using liquid fertilizer might be just what you need. While growers traditionally have relied on granular or slow-release fertilizers added to the growing medium, a constant liquid fertilizer feed is now the preferred choice for many. Not only does it deliver nutrients in a form that's easy for plants to absorb, but it's also easier to control and adjust to meet your plants' needs. This blog post we'll explore the benefits of using liquid fertilizer in your greenhouse and provide some practical tips for success.
I. Introduction
A. Explanation of the importance of adequate nutrition for greenhouse plants
Proper nutrition is essential for greenhouse plants to produce high-quality crops. Adequate nutrition provides the necessary macronutrients, micronutrients, and trace elements for plant growth, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, boron, molybdenum, and chloride. A steady supply of nutrients helps plants efficiently photosynthesize, access water, and build strong tissue structures. Without the proper balance of nutrients, plants may suffer from deficiencies or toxicities, leading to stunted growth, reduced flower or fruit production, and decreased crop yield. [1][2]
B. Comparison between liquid and granular/slow-release fertilizers
Regarding fertilizers, you have two main options: liquid or granular/slow-release. Liquid fertilizers have the advantage of being easier to apply and providing quickly available nutrients to plants. However, they require specific equipment and frequent application, making them less cost-effective in the long run. Granular/slow-release fertilizers, on the other hand, are easier to store, require fewer applications, and can be custom blended for your specific crop needs. However, they can be harder for plants to absorb and may not provide consistent nutrient levels. Choosing between liquid and granular/slow-release fertilizers will ultimately depend on your specific needs and resources. [3][4]
C. Explanation of the benefits of using liquid fertilizer
Using liquid fertilizer in your greenhouse has several benefits. The liquid form can penetrate the soil and spread uniformly, ensuring all plants receive the same nutrients. Liquid fertilizers work faster than granular fertilizers, giving plants quicker access to nutrients. Additionally, it's straightforward to change the composition, concentration, and frequency of nutrient delivery when using water-soluble fertilizers. Liquid fertilizers can make for healthier and more balanced plants, making them an excellent option for optimal plant growth. It's crucial to find the right nutrient balance for your plants. [5][6]
II. Recommended Organic Liquid Fertilizers
A. Overview of Natures Source 3-1-1
Nature Source 3-1-1 is a naturally derived liquid fertilizer perfect for all plant types. It's made from fermented oilseed extract, which provides a shallow salt index organic plant food that supplies balanced and palatable nutrition for consistent and rapid plant growth. It's ideal for organic production in the greenhouse and field and even as a foliar spray. Plus, it mixes easily with cold water and doesn't emit any unpleasant odors. Get your hands on Nature's Source Organic Plant Food 3-1-1 and watch your plants grow beautifully! [7][8]
B. Overview of Bombardier 8-0-0 and Espartan 2.0-3.03-2.6
Two fertilizers manufactured by Kimitec in Spain are Bombardier 8-0-0 and Espartan 2.0-3.03-2.6, which contain L-amino acids, fulvic acids, polysaccharides, and organic matter. While they have limited availability and the labels are not written for greenhouse use, they have great promise for future use. Bombardier increases stress resistance, soil structure, fruit yields, and vegetative growth in greenhouse vegetables such as olives, grapes, fruit trees, corn, cotton, and ornamentals. Espartan, on the other hand, improves plant vigor, promotes root growth, and enhances flowers and fruit. [9][10]
C. Explanation of the benefits of using Natures Source and Sustane together
Combining Natures Source and Sustane provides plant growers with an effective way to receive the benefits of both fertilizers. Natures Source is a low-salt liquid fertilizer that delivers balanced nutrition to all types of plants. At the same time, Sustane is a slow-release granular fertilizer that provides nutrients to plants for extended periods. Incorporating Sustane with the growing medium during planting and then using Natures Source afterward offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to maximize plant growth while minimizing nutrient deficiencies. [11][12]
III. Important Specific Recommendations
A. Dilution and application methods for concentrates
After the amount of fertilizer needed to mix stock solutions, it's-diluting and applying the fertilizer concentrate properly is important. The concentrate should be diluted carefully to avoid under or over-fertilizing the plants. The dilution method will depend on the fertilizer injector used, which can have a fixed or adjustable ratio. Once properly diluted, the fertilizer solution can be applied through the irrigation system using a constant feed basis. To ensure the best results, attesting the fertilizer on a few plants before widespread use is recommended. [13][14]
B. Prevention of overall light green or yellowed color caused by nutrient deficiency
Nut deficiency can cause overall light green or yellowed color in greenhouse plants. To prevent this, regular soil testing is vital to identify any nutrient imbalances early on. Additionally, using a combination of organic fertilizers can help provide a complete nutrient profile for your plants, preventing deficiencies from occurring. It's also important to test new fertilizers on a few plants before widespread use to ensure they are compatible and effective. Finding the right nutrient balance is key for optimum plant growth in your greenhouse. [15][16]
C. Prevention of interveinal chlorosis caused by ammonium toxicity
Prevention of interveinal chlorosis caused by ammonium toxicity is crucial for healthy plant growth in greenhouses. Ammonium toxicity occurs when too much ammonium is available in the substrate, and plants take it up excessively. Visual symptoms of ammonium toxicity begin as pale lime-green foliage miming an iron deficiency. To avoid ammonium toxicity and prevent interveinal chlorosis, monitor ammonium levels, use fertilizers with a balanced ratio of ammonium and nitrate, adjust the pH of the substrate, and use soil amendments to reduce ammonium levels. [17][18]
D. Proper use of Sustane as the sole source of nutrients for the first month after planting
Proper use of Sustane as the sole source of nutrients for the first month after planting is essential to ensure your plants get the right nutrients in the right quantities. Sustane is a slow-release fertilizer that is easy to use and provides predictable results. It is recommended to use it alone for the first month after planting and then apply Natures Source or another liquid organic fertilizer. This helps plant growth by enhancing soil-plant nutrient exchange and increasing uptake efficiency. So, take advantage of Sustane's premium organic base and witness the quality results in yourself. [19][20]
E. Prevention of reduced plant size caused by organic fertilizers
When using organic fertilizers in your greenhouse, it's important to be aware of the possibility of reduced plant size. Many growers have observed this phenomenon compared to chemical fertilizers, but there are ways to overcome it. Some suggest raising the rate of organics to compensate, but increasing the rate in increments will likely be more successful. It's also important to find the right nutrient balance for optimum growth. Test fertilizers on a small scale before widespread use to ensure the best results. [21][22]
F. Importance of testing fertilizers on a small number of plants before the widespread use
Before applying any fertilizer on a large scale, it is important to test it on a small number of plants to ensure that it is suitable for use. This can help prevent any unwanted effects on the environment or the plants and save time and money. So, take the time to experiment with different fertilizers and find the right nutrient balance for optimum plant growth. By doing so, you can be sure you are using the best fertilizer for your plants and the environment. [23][24]
IV. Conclusion
A. Recap of benefits of using liquid fertilizers
To summarize, using liquid fertilizers in your greenhouse can have many benefits. Firstly, they provide a quick and easy method for delivering the necessary nutrients to your plants. Additionally, these fertilizers can help balance your soil's pH levels and promote healthier growth. Moreover, liquid fertilizers can save you time and labor compared to granular fertilizers. However, it's important to test these fertilizers on a small scale before widespread use and to find the right nutrient balance for optimum plant growth. Liquid fertilizer can be a great choice for ensuring healthy and abundant greenhouse plants. [25][26]
B. Reminder to test fertilizers on a small scale before the widespread use
It's important to remember to test any new fertilizers on a small scale before using them on a larger scale. This can help prevent any unintended negative effects on your greenhouse plants. Testing lets you see how the fertilizer interacts with your specific plant species and conditions and determine the best application method and dosage. Taking the time to test new fertilizers can ultimately lead to healthier and more productive greenhouse plants. [27][28]
C. Importance of finding the right nutrient balance for optimum plant growth.
Finding the right nutrient balance is crucial for optimum plant growth in a greenhouse. A deficiency or excess of any nutrient can lead to severe deficiencies or toxicities in the plant. While a complete fertilization program may supply N, P, and K in the desired ratios, custom blending fertilizers can help achieve the best balance for a specific plant's growth. It's important to consider both the source and amount of fertilizer used and to test fertilizers on a small scale before widespread use to ensure the ideal balance is achieved for the best results. [29][30]
