There are pros and cons with both granular and foliar applied liquid fertilizers. With fertilizer costs out of control, gamekeepers need to make sure they get the most bang for their buck. Plants need the nutrients and I don’t think they care where they come from. What are the big differences between granular and foliar applied liquid fertilizers?
Although the correct amount of nutrients can be supplied by either granular or liquid fertilizer, there are differences, and many favor the liquid applied method. For example; when it comes to phosphorus, one must be aware how far away the source is from the plant’s roots. Less mobile nutrients like phosphorus can’t get closer than the individual granule containing them. In liquid form, they are more mobile in the soil water solution. Granular fertilizers can be “hot” — roots can actually steer away from granular fertilizer that contains high levels of nitrogen and potassium. Liquids are often preferred for a “starter.” The nutrient content is identical in every drop of liquid fertilizer, while granular options have individual nutrient components in each granule.
Austin Delano, Southern Field Services Manager for BioLogic says, “With increasing prices, fertilizer efficiency is more important than ever. Water soluble and liquid fertilizers from Biologic bypass potential soil issues and feed the plant directly through a foliar application. Quick uptake of macro and micro nutrients gives plants immediate growth benefits and stress protection.”
Some benefits of liquid fertilizer:
- Liquid
- Ease of handling and application
- Ease of blending
- Uniformity of application
- Can be used for either starter or in-season application
- Can be blended with crop protection products or selective herbicides
Some benefits of granular fertilizer:
- Has traditionally been cheaper in bulk (which doesn’t mean it will be this year)
- More efficient for heavy pre-plant applications
- Slow-release options (polymer-coated urea)
You’ll have to choose which option is right for your situation. With today’s times, we should consider all of the above, including options from the previous article.
For more on the foliar fertilizers listen to episode #96 on the Gamekeeper Podcast
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