Chelated Micronutrient Fertilizer
January 6, 2022
Micronutrients like zinc, boron, iron, copper, and manganese are essential for the health of crops and can boost plant quality and improve yields. Nutrient management is vital for effective productivity in crop production.
However, these nutrients are easily precipitated or oxidized in the soil, and thus, their utilization may not be optimal. A chelated micronutrient fertilizer offers an excellent way to enhance micronutrient optimization and efficiency.
At Ferticell, we offer a micronutrient fertilizer package with added freshwater algae that can help boost the availability of micronutrients in the soil and improve hydroponic or foliar reapplications. By including an application of Nutri-Plus™ with micronutrient applications, the amino acids in Nutri-Plus™ act as a natural chelator, increasing uptake of vital micronutrients. It should be mentioned this mix of Nutri-Plus™ and Microelements™ is an entirely soluble blend, some of which can be applied through foliar sprays, whereas others are directed to the soil.
What Are Chelates?
Chelates are organic elements that pick up and keep metal ions (soluble micronutrients) to prevent them from being oxidized by other ions. The good part is that these metal ions can still be absorbed through the roots and used as nutrients. Chelated micronutrients will have an increased bioavailability in soils with higher pH values, especially above 7.0.
Simply put, chelates make it easier and convenient for crops to access some nutrients. It also helps make metal ions more soluble, prevent precipitation, and reduce the toxicity level of ions.
Is Chelated Fertilizer Necessary?
As mentioned earlier, traditional micronutrients may be unavailable in the soil due to oxidation or precipitation processes. Chelated fertilizer is needed to boost the bioavailability of micronutrients and enhance crop quality. Low OM soils will have depleted micronutrient numbers and will benefit and respond to lower rates as a chelated metal ion.
Similarly, if soil micronutrient supplementation is inadequate or plants exhibit micronutrient stress, chelated fertilizer should be considered. In addition to chelated fertilizer, the amino acid can also be added to the soil to provide food and energy for microbes and modify different stress responses.
High yield production will deplete micronutrients from soil reserves and foliar applications will often produce the greatest efficiency of uptake to deficient plants. Tree nut crops and vegetables are at a greater risk for micronutrient deficiencies in high production soils.
Stress conditions such as a low temperature or soils that are saturated will reduce root growth that will directly influence the uptake of soil stored micronutrients, so foliar applications of chelated materials can maintain correct levels of metal lions that are critical in flowering and seed filling.
Where to Purchase Chelated Micronutrient Fertilizer from Ferticell
Ag retailers, if you want to supply your customers with a high-quality chelated micronutrient fertilizer, at Ferticell™, we can help. We partner with retailers and distributors across the country to ensure the production of sustainable agricultural products. View a full list of
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Contact us online or call us at
480-361-1300 to see how we can help your business grow.
Achieving optimal plant health and maximizing crop yield requires more than just the application of primary nutrients like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). While these macronutrients are foundational, the often-overlooked microelements, also known as micronutrients, play equally vital roles in plant physiology, soil fertility, and nutrient synergy. For farmers interested in sustainable productivity, a balanced nutrient approach that includes essential microelements is not just beneficial, it is essential. Ferticell® Microelements™ 1-0-0 is a scientifically formulated blend designed to meet agricultural needs. It contains 1% nitrogen, 0.45% magnesium, 1.80% sulfur, 0.02% boron, 0.2% copper, 0.2% iron, 0.75% manganese, and 1.5% zinc, this comprehensive product supports robust crop growth, nutrient uptake, and long-term soil health. Its application can make a noticeable difference in productivity, particularly in intensive cropping systems where micronutrient depletion is a growing concern its effectiveness can be further enhanced by using Ferticell® Universal™ 0-0-1, which facilitates rapid absorption and complete uptake by the plant. Nitrogen and Magnesium: Energizing Plant Metabolism Even at 1% nitrogen, the concentration used in this formulation supports the creation of amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids (if using Ferticell® Explorer™ 10-0-0 or 16-0-0 adds to their already high level of amino acids) and enzymes, key compounds in plant growth and metabolic function. It also plays a pivotal role in the production of chlorophyll, essential for photosynthesis, which directly affects plant vigor and yield. Magnesium, at 0.45%, serves as the central atom in the chlorophyll molecule. Its presence boosts photosynthetic capacity, improves carbohydrate transportation, and facilitates phosphate metabolism. For farmers growing high-energy-demand crops such as corn, potatoes, and tomatoes, magnesium ensures that the photosynthetic production operates efficiently, especially under high light conditions. Sulfur and Boron: Enhancing Protein Synthesis and Reproductive Health Sulfur, present at 1.80%, is essential in the formation of cysteine and methionine, two critical amino acids. Sulfur also improves nitrogen-use efficiency, meaning farmers can potentially reduce nitrogen fertilizer inputs without compromising plant performance. Furthermore, sulfur plays a defensive role by enhancing plant resistance to diseases and environmental stressors such as drought or temperature fluctuations. Boron, though present in minute quantities (0.02%), has an outsized impact on plant productivity. It is instrumental in cell wall synthesis, pollen tube formation, and carbohydrate transport. In crops such as almonds, grapes, and sugar beets, boron deficiency can cause significant yield losses due to poor fruit set and compromised structural integrity. Precision management of boron can prevent such problems and improve overall crop quality. Copper and Iron: Catalyzing Growth and Preventing Chlorosis Copper (0.2%) functions as a co-factor in numerous enzymatic reactions. It is involved in lignin synthesis, which strengthens plant tissues and improves resistance against fungal and bacterial diseases. Copper also helps regulate photosynthetic enzymes, maintaining a balance between vegetative growth and reproductive success. Iron (0.2%) is a crucial element in electron transport chains within chloroplasts. A deficiency in iron leads to interveinal chlorosis, the yellowing of young leaves, due to reduced chlorophyll synthesis. For farmers growing crops on calcareous or alkaline soils, iron deficiency can be a common issue. Supplementing with a chelated source like Ferticell® Microelements™ 0-0-1 helps maintain plant vigor and prevents early cellular aging. Manganese and Zinc: Boosting Enzymatic Activity and Hormonal Balance Manganese (0.75%) is vital for the activation of more than thirty-five plant enzymes, especially those involved in nitrogen assimilation and antioxidant defense. It also contributes to the detoxification of reactive oxygen species during environmental stress, thereby protecting plant cells and tissues. Zinc (1.5%) is indispensable for the synthesis of tryptophan, a precursor to the growth hormone auxin. This influences cell elongation, leaf expansion, and root development. Zinc deficiency often results in shortened internodes and stunted growth, a scenario that directly affects yield. For corn and citrus growers, in particular, addressing zinc deficiency is key to ensuring profitable harvests. Soil Health, Synergy, and Sustainable Agriculture Beyond plant nutrition, Ferticell® Microelements™ 1-0-0 enhances soil fertility. By feeding beneficial microbial populations, especially sulfur-oxidizing bacteria, it promotes organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling. This, in turn, improves nutrient availability and reduces the risk of fertilizer lock-up especially when using conventional fertilizers. Moreover, the synergy between elements, such as sulfur enhancing nitrogen efficiency, or zinc and copper regulating hormonal responses—creates a more resilient and productive agroecosystem. The Added Ferticell® Advantage is Their Focus on Foliar Application Rapid Nutrient Uptake: Leaves can absorb nutrients more quickly than roots, particularly when supported by a penetrant like Ferticell® Universal™ 0-0-1. This ensures near-immediate nutrient delivery to photosynthetically active tissues and metabolic centers. The result is a faster correction of deficiencies, often within 24 to 72 hours. Bypassing Soil Limitations: Soil conditions such as high pH, compaction, drought, or microbial imbalance can restrict nutrient availability. Foliar application avoids soil-related antagonisms by delivering nutrients directly into the plant's vascular system. Precision Timing with Crop Demand: Foliar feeding supports targeted nutrient delivery during sensitive growth windows like pre-flowering, fruit set, and bulking phases. With a number of application systems both foliar and soil applications input can be applied at the same time. Enhanced Use Efficiency: Foliar-applied nutrients are absorbed more directly (especially using Ferticell® ICE Technology*) and in smaller doses, minimizing losses through leaching or volatilization and improving return on investment. Compatibility with Integrated Management: Foliar feeds can be tank-mixed with other sprays, reducing labor and maximizing field efficiency. Ferticell® Universal™ 0-0-1 enhances absorption and lowers phytotoxicity risks (please review the appropriate TDS and use a jar test to determine compatibility). Suitable for Organic and High-Value Crops: Foliar applications are ideal for sustainable, high-value systems requiring minimal soil disturbance and precise nutrient targeting. Practical Benefits for Farmers Farmers using Ferticell® Microelements™ 1-0-0 report reduced instances of visible nutrient deficiencies, increased crop uniformity, improved disease resistance, and higher yields. Over time, consistent use of such a balanced microelement blend corrects latent soil micronutrient imbalances and improves the return on investment (ROI) for all nutrient inputs. It also supports regulatory compliance in nutrient-sensitive watersheds by reducing runoff-related nutrient losses, and by using Universal™ 0-0-1 eliminates direct soil application, improving efficiency. Conclusion Incorporating a well-balanced microelement product like Ferticell® Microelements™ 1-0-0 (used along with Universal™ 0-0-1) is a proactive step toward better crop outcomes, healthier soils, and greater long-term farm profitability. This blend’s composition not only addresses immediate plant needs but also lays the foundation for sustainable agricultural systems. By understanding and applying these essential micronutrients, farmers safeguard not only their crops but their livelihoods, building resilience against environmental challenges while optimizing productivity and ecological health. *Inter-Cellular Exchange (ICE) is the mechanism by which nutrient moves from Ferticell® cells into the plant’s cells. ICE is most active in young living cells, particularly those found in leaves and roots.
Hydrolyzed soy protein (HSP) products, like Ferticell® Explorer™ 10-0-0 and Explorer™ 16-0-0 and our other products containing nitrogen also have polyamines (PAs), are pivotal in modern agricultural and biochemical applications. They provide essential nutrients for plant growth, while the PAs influence stress tolerance, ion transport, and crop productivity. First let’s examine their biochemical composition, roles, and mechanisms in plant development. Hydrolyzed soy protein is derived from soy proteins broken down into smaller peptides and amino acids through hydrolysis, heat treatment, or microbial fermentation. This process yields compounds like oligopeptides and polypeptides, alongside free amino acids, and biogenic amines. Biogenic amines (BAs) are nitrogenous compounds produced by decarboxylation of amino acids during hydrolysis or fermentation. In hydrolyzed soy protein, typical BAs include tyramine, histamine, putrescine, cadaverine, spermidine, and spermine. Their formation is crucial for biological activities, yet excessive accumulation can influence metabolic pathways and plant responses. This also explains why Ferticell’s products containing Nitrogen have synergistic effects that are realized, as well as there is nitrogen in them that is not seen through normal analysis. In amino acids there is an additional average of 6.5% nitrogen that is part of their composition, so with Explorer™ 10-0-0 that means an additional 3.9% or a 13.9-0-0*. Delving deeper there are other benefits that are not seen in using conventional nitrogen. Among them: Protein Structure: Amines (NH₂ groups) in amino acids form peptide bonds, facilitating protein synthesis. Neurotransmitter Precursors: Amino acids such as tryptophan and tyrosine can transform into serotonin and dopamine, respectively, playing roles in biochemical signaling. Zwitterionic Behavior: Amino acids exist as zwitterions in solution, balancing ionic interactions critical for cellular stability. Glycine acts as a transport for delivery of nutrients directly to the plants cells Polyamines in Plant Biology are polycationic organic molecules found in all living cells. They perform key roles in plant physiology, influencing growth, development, and cellular processes. Fundamental Roles: Cell Division and Differentiation: Polyamines regulate chromatin remodeling and gene expression, essential for normal plant growth. Flowering and Fruit Development: Polyamines enhance processes like pollen viability, ovule development, fruit set, and ripening. Nutrient Uptake: Their involvement in ion exchange increases plant absorption efficiency, promoting overall health and productivity. Polyamines improve plant tolerance to abiotic stresses (e.g., drought, salinity, extreme temperatures) and biotic stresses (e.g., pathogens, pests) by triggering molecular and physiological defenses. They modulate antioxidant activity, cellular repair mechanisms, and osmotic balance. Mechanisms of Polyamine Action: Ion Exchange and Stress Responses. Polyamines influence ion transport across cellular membranes, maintaining ionic homeostasis and signaling under stress conditions. Cation Transport Modulation: Ion Homeostasis: Polyamines regulate transporters like H+ and Ca2+ ATPases, ensuring cellular ionic balance critical for metabolic stability. Stress-Induced Remodeling: Under stress, polyamine levels adjust to enhance proline accumulation and enzymatic antioxidant activity. Specific Effects: Salinity Stress: Spermidine and spermine mitigate salinity-induced osmotic imbalances by enhancing ion transport and antioxidant responses. Drought Stress: These polyamines promote grain filling and drought resistance in crops like wheat. Ions play a crucial role in agriculture by enabling plant nutrient uptake, influencing soil fertility, and impacting soil pH and structure, all of which are essential for healthy crop growth. Here's a more detailed explanation: Nutrient Availability: Plants absorb essential nutrients from the soil in the form of ions, such as nitrate (NO3-), ammonium (NH4+), phosphate (PO43-), and potassium (K+). Soil Fertility: The ability of soil to hold and release these ions (cation exchange capacity) is a key factor in determining soil fertility. Soil pH: The presence and activity of ions, particularly hydrogen ions (H+), significantly influence soil pH, which in turn affects nutrient availability and plant growth. Cation Exchange: Soil particles, especially clay and organic matter, have a negative charge that attracts and holds positively charged ions (cations) like calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), and potassium (K+), making them available for plant uptake. Anion Exchange: While less common than cation exchange, some soils also have positively charged surfaces that can hold negatively charged ions (anions) like nitrate (NO3-) and phosphate (PO43-). Water Quality: Excessive amounts of certain ions, like nitrate, can leach into groundwater and contaminate water sources, posing a threat to both human and environmental health. Ionic Liquids in Agriculture: Ionic liquids (ILs) are emerging as a promising area of research in agriculture, with potential applications in pesticide delivery, plant immunity induction, and sustainable agricultural practices. In conclusion the practical utilization of hydrolyzed soy protein and polyamines, Explorer™ 10-0-0 and Explorer™ 16-0-0, has transformative implications for sustainable agriculture: Fertilizers: HSP provides organic nitrogen and essential amino acids to support plant growth and development. Abiotic Stress Tolerance: Polyamines enhance resilience to environmental challenges like drought and salinity. Crop Yield and Quality: PAs improve yield metrics and post-harvest fruit preservation, extending shelf life. Biotic Stress Defense: Their role in pathogen and pest resistance bolsters crop health. * 1. Explorer™ 10-0-0 is listed as 10% hydrolyzed soy nitrogen, and contains 60% amino acids (60.9% by analysis). * 3. Amino acids contribute an additional 6.5% nitrogen yielding 0.065 X 60 = 3.9% more nitrogen than the 10% analyzed or 13.9% with 98% (efficiency) of it being used by the plant.
Abiotic stress is now impacting large parts of the U.S. This article is for those not using Ferticell® products as a preventative measure and include those that are, who now need more information on mitigation to prevent losses (Read more on abiotic stress in Part 1 of the series, https://www.agweb.com/news/crops/crop-production/ferticellrs-non-gmo-prescription- prevent-and/or-overcome-weather-related). Since we can’t control sunlight, rain, all salinity, and all nutrients, we can control inputs to prevent or reverse the stress. Plants are now beginning to reach a level of dormancy and if not acted upon it’s harder to overcome and if left untreated the yield can decline by 8-40%. We know our products work because of what they contain and do not e.g. no salt. We can improve the soil biome and soil structure to increase water holding capacity, water productivity, and water infiltration (now is the time to start the transition to less salt inputs before it is mandatory). This is especially needed in heavy clay soils or high salinity soils since they may hold water at a force greater than plants can extract it and further increase stress. Another issue is high levels of N means low absorption that leads to stress especially N with a high salt index, like UAN 32 at 71+, that impacts all aspects of metabolism. Ferticell® products are non-GMO and contain natural plant growth phytohormones, found in algae, microorganisms, unicellular fungi, and bacteria. Among them: Abscisic Acid {ABA}, Auxins {lAA), Cytokinins, Ethylene, Gibberellins {GA's), and Jasmonic acid. Water is not needed to activate when applied, is absorbed by the plant and active immediately in the plant for better outcomes. Ferticell® products: Allows faster, efficient fertilizer assimilation. Increases root development by increasing lateral and deeper roots, longer tap roots are important in finding water for drought resistance and survivability. Has lower salt content than seaweed or kelp products reduces salt burn potential versus the high salt conventional fertilizers that share some common ingredients. Promotes continuous feeding to retard or reverse dormancy. These products counteract abiotic stress and continue growth while increasing survivability. Nutri Plus™ 2.5-0-0, is a bio stimulant with 19 of 20 essential peptides + amino acids, with a total of 42. Amino Acids are considered the best natural bio stimulant and catalyst, second to water, stimulates the metabolic processes in the plant. The high levels of Aspartic and Glutamic acid are precursors to the other metabolic processes. The high Glycine content of Nutri-Plus promotes and supports chlorophyll activity. Universal™ 0-0-1 has a 25% algae content to handle all four stressors and hydration. It promotes biological activity in the root zone, for a stronger plant set, deeper roots for more efficient nutrient exchange and uptake. Helps your plants reach water before and during stress to make nutrient more readily available. Microelements™ 1-0-0 is a comprehensive package with the added benefit of freshwater algae that further aids plants during stress. Its sulfur is vital for photosynthesis, respiration, and the formation of cell membrane structure in the plant. Now that stress is occurring the above products are the most helpful in combination, the 3 options in rank of effectiveness for severe stress with #3 being the most efficient. Use what’s the best based outcome based on your budget: Option #1 32% UAN or 28% UAN and 2 Qt./acre Universal™ Option #2 1 Qt./acre Nutri Plus™ and 1 Qt./acre Microelements™ Option #3 1 Pt./acre Universal™, 1 Pt./acre Nutri Plus™, and 1 Qt./acre Microelements™ Our freshwater algae helps to drive the internal plant mechanism to act so it continues to thrive and function. Unlike other algae/seaweed products Universal™ has no salt index. Other products further stress plants before they might reverse them from the issues of stress, if at all. This added salt could actually kill the plant by burning it and since salt acts to excrete water, it further removes moisture from the plant. Nutri Plus™ also provides a small amount of plant-based nitrogen which will further encourage the desire to live and function. The inclusion of the sulfur and iron in Microelements™ will stimulate production of green color and photosynthesis for food and oxygen, helping to keep the plant thriving. FERTICELL® PRODUCTS ARE THE BEST “TANK BUDDY” ON THE MARKET!