Definition and methods of application
Water-soluble fertilizers are formulations that dissolve completely in water and are applied either through the irrigation system (water fertilization) or by foliar sprays. Due to their form, they provide rapid and immediate availability of nutrients to the plant, making them ideal for periods of increased demands or for corrective interventions within the growing season.
Advantages and indicative uses
The use of water-soluble fertilizers is particularly effective when:
-Immediate action is required, such as during phases of intense growth or fruit set.
-There is a fertigation system, allowing targeted application.
-Corrective nutrition is applied based on analyses.
-A nutrient availability problem is observed due to high pH or soil specificities.
Water-soluble fertilizers do not replace basic fertilization, but act as a complement and enhancer.
Greenhouses
In greenhouse crops, water-soluble fertilizers are the main fertilization strategy, due to intensive growth rates, limited root space, and the need for daily adjustment.
Indicatively:
Tomato: differentiated nutrient solutions per stage (e.g. high P at establishment, increased K at fruit set).
Precise supply of trace elements (Zn, Fe, B) depending on water conductivity and temperature.
Applications in outdoor crops
Water-soluble fertilizers are also used successfully in the field, for example:
Olive: foliar application of B, Mg, Zn at critical phases.
Cotton: potassium and magnesium during flowering to improve fruit setting.
Corn: nitrogen and zinc in cases of deficient intake.
Rice: zinc in the early stages to prevent chlorosis.
Wheat: Nitrogen during tillering, through foliar applications to increase protein.
When are they necessary?
They are indicated in cases where:
-Basic fertilization does not cover the needs of the crop.
-There are leaf diagnostic data that require interventions.
-Specific elements need to be provided at a certain time (e.g. boron before flowering).
-The pH or soil composition limits the availability of nutrients.
Parameters
For the effective and safe use of water-soluble fertilizers, it is required:
-Water and soil analysis before their inclusion in the nutrition program.
-Accurate calculation of fertilizer units per cubic meter of water.
-Compatibility check of components to avoid settlements.
-Monitoring conductivity, salinity and pH of water.
-Sufficient frequency and rate of application, to avoid salt accumulation or excess that may cause toxicity.
Conclusion
Water-soluble fertilizers are a key tool in modern precision agriculture, with applications in both greenhouses and the field. Their proper use requires technical training, data analysis and agronomic guidance. When properly integrated into the fertilization program, they offer immediate action, targeted intervention and improved efficiency of each application.
See all high purity water-soluble fertilizers from ZIKO
