What Salinity Can Do to Your Soil
Bruce Roberts • July 15, 2025
Farmers should be examining their crops now for signs of stress, all forms of stress, not just drought. High temperatures, erratic rainfall, salinity, and nutrient limitations are already pushing crops toward dormancy and reducing yield potential across large areas. With stress-induced yield losses ranging from 8–40%, proactive measures are critical before you have to remediate. Even when you have the ability to reverse the issue, the ultimate yield has been decreased by a factor. It is more beneficial financially to use Nutri-Plus™ 2.5-0-0 since prevention is always preferable to having to “cure” the problem.
Ferticell® Nutri-Plus™ 2.5-0-0 offers one of the most effective, preventive solutions, delivering amino acids, freshwater algae, and bioavailable nitrogen to maintain plant activity and reverse stress before damage becomes irreversible. Prevention is always the best approach, both agronomically and economically.
Nutri-Plus™: A Complete Amino Acid-Based Bio-Stimulant
Nutri-Plus™ is a 2.5% nitrogen liquid fertilizer derived from non-GMO soy and unicellular freshwater algae. It contains 42 amino acids, including 19 essential types, and acts as both a stress mitigator and a growth stimulant under heat, drought, frost, and saline stress.
Key Features:
- 25% unicellular algae extract – anti-stress agent and nutrient delivery system (same as in Universal™ 0-0-1)
- 19.8% total amino acids by weight
- 2.5% plant-based nitrogen – organic, bioavailable, and fast-acting (same as Explorer™ 10-0-0)
- Low salt index and neutral pH – safe for foliar use and soil biome health
Why Amino Acids Matter in Modern Agriculture
Amino acids are vital intermediaries in the nitrogen cycle and play an indispensable role in plant resilience and productivity:
| Function | Role in Plant Physiology |
|---|---|
| Stress Defense | Glycine, Proline, and Hydroxyproline regulate osmotic balance, fortify cell walls, and help maintain photosynthetic activity during stress events. |
| Photosynthesis | High Glycine and Glutamic Acid content promotes photosynthesis and vegetative growth, even during stress. |
| Nutrient Uptake | Amino acids stabilize rhizosphere pH and facilitate absorption of immobile nutrients such as NH₄⁺, P, and K. |
| Root Development | L-Aspartic and L-Tryptophan stimulate hormone production (e.g., auxins) enhancing auxin-driven root mass and lateral root development |
| Biotic Activation | They act as signals and food sources for rhizosphere microbes, increasing biodiversity and soil fertility. |
Mechanism: Immediate Absorption via I.C.E. Technology
Nutri-Plus™ uses
Inter-Cellular Exchange (I.C.E.) by absorbing the nutrient that is then delivered directly to plant cells where they are osmotically transported into the cell, whether applied through foliar spray or irrigation.
- Algae microcells adhere to leaf surfaces, even during light rain.
- Nutrients enter through stomata or root hairs within minutes.
- Cytoplasmic streaming ensures nutrients reach deficient cells, enhancing chlorophyll production, hormonal balance, and overall plant vigor almost immediately.
Application Strategy for Abiotic Stress
| Crop Stage | Nutri-Plus™ Rate | Target Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Post- Transplant/Growth | 1–3 qt/ac (foliar) | Stimulates root and shoot development |
| Pre-Bloom | 2–3 qt/ac | Promotes flowering and fruit set |
| Drought or Heat | 1 pt–1 qt/ac every 7–10 d | Maintains hydration and photosynthetic activity |
| Frost Event | 3 pts/ac w/ 60-gal water | Protects and restores post-freeze |
| High Salinity | Use with Universal™ | Reduces salt uptake, supports ion balance |
Most effective for severe stress:
→ 1 pt Universal™, 1 pt
Nutri-Plus™, 1 qt Microelements™
Field-Proven Results
- In carrots and broccoli, Nutri-Plus™ combined with ProCal™ 3-0-0 and Microelements™ 1-0-0 increased yields by 27% compared to poultry manure.
- In sweet corn, a single application during silk initiation improved NPK absorption and overall plant density.
Why Nutri-Plus™ Outperforms Seaweed and Synthetic N
| Nutri-Plus™ Advantage | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Zero salt index | No osmotic stress, no leaf burn |
| Fast nutrient uptake (within 3 hrs.) | Immediate bioavailability of nitrogen and amino acids |
| No microbial conversion needed | Conserves plant energy, avoids nitrate leaching, supports soil biology |
Conclusion
Nutri-Plus™ is not just a fertilizer; it’s a bioactive defense system. Through biochemical, physiological, and microbial pathways, it strengthens the plant’s ability to grow, reproduce, and withstand adversity. It integrates seamlessly into both organic and conventional programs, stabilizes yields during extreme conditions, and supports plant vitality from the root zone to the canopy throughout the crop cycle.
For farmers,
Nutri-Plus™ is a safeguard, keeping crops active, feeding, and thriving when others shut down. It’s critical to understand that
Nutri-Plus™ is not only effective in mitigating stress after it occurs but is even more powerful when used proactively. Regular use, especially in combination with Universal™ 0-0-1 and Microelements™ 1-0-0, builds long-term plant health, soil resilience, and protection from yield loss before stress symptoms even appear.
Used proactively, Nutri-Plus™ builds long-term resilience:
- Strengthens root architecture and amino acid reserves, with a more responsive internal nutrient network
- Keeps phytohormones like cytokinins and gibberellins active longer helping maintain cell division and new tissue growth, even during challenging conditions.
- By stimulating and boosting chlorophyll and microbial activity for sustained metabolism
Nutri-Plus™ doesn’t just help plants recover from stress—it helps prevent it. Growers who use Nutri-Plus™ stay ahead, while others are left trying to catch up.
Organic growers long faced a challenge: delivering timely, efficient crop nutrition with the same precision available with conventional systems. While synthetic inputs offer speed and flexibility, organic solutions previously were limited, until Ferticell® introduced inputs that were developed for cleaner more efficient and more consistent outcomes. Precision Organic Crop Nutrition was then and is now still possible with products like Ferticell® Active™. This premium line of stage-specific NPK blends enables the delivery of the Right Nutrient, at the Right Time, in the Right Amount —all within organic standards and aligned with regenerative practices for both conventional and organic crops. Each formula is made using 100% plant-based, non-GMO, chloride-free ingredients , with no animal by-products, making it fully compliant with food safety regulations. Built on a foundation of soy protein hydrolysate amino acids and minerals that have been specifically processed for superior solubility (300x dilution through 120-mesh screens), Active™ provides clean, efficient nutrition without compromise. Active™ fertilizers are highly soluble powders designed to correct nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium deficiencies while supporting strong growth and stress resilience. Whether applied through drip systems, traditional irrigation, or foliar spray, over 90% of nutrients are absorbed within 3 hours , like most Ferticell® products. Active™ 2-20-2 – Phosphorus Power for Early Growth High phosphorus for root development and early vigor Excellent as a foliar phosphorus source Supports transplant recovery and abiotic stress resistance Active™ 5-10-10 – Balance for Flowering and Finish Enhances bloom, fruit set, and finishing stages Balanced P and K for stress recovery and metabolic strength Useful across multiple growth phases, especially post-flowering Active™ 13-2-2 – Nitrogen Kick for Growth and Recovery Delivers fast-acting nitrogen during vegetative growth or stress recovery High amino acid content improves tissue repair and tolerance Ideal after transplanting or adverse conditions Tailored Formulas for Every Growth Stage Active™ was developed for critical crop phases—transplanting, vegetative growth, pre-flowering, fruit fill—and for stress events from drought, heat, frost, salinity, hail, or pest damage. In the field, visible crop responses are often apparent within days, particularly when applied before stress-sensitive stages to prevent it. All of this is why Active™ outperforms many other conventional and organic NPK products in consistency, ease of use, uptake, and outcomes. The entire Active™ line harnesses soy protein hydrolysate , the same fast-acting amino acid nitrogen source featured in Ferticell® Explorer™ 10-0-0, 16-0-0, and many of our other products. As with all of our products, these NPK’s integrate seamlessly for blends focused on specific issues or levels of nutrition. Examples of potential inclusions are: Universal™ 0-0-1 for faster potassium response Microelements™ 1-0-0 to correct micronutrient levels Calcium™ 880 or ProCal™ 3-0-0 for strong structural support Pro Primer™ 2-0-0 for boosting microbial activity and soil vitality Fighting Salt Index of Conventional Fertilizers All of the Ferticell® line has been environmentally friendly from the beginning, 21 years ago, and remains so today. Using our line of NPK’s and other fertilizers, they provide plant-based, highly soluble formulas that allows growers to fine-tune nutrition with the same control conventional systems enjoy without all the salt. Salt is the #1 issue that needs to be controlled in order to save our soil from further degradation. This makes it an ideal addition to your list of ingredients to be used giving a nutrition program (conventional and organic) with higher uptake and efficacy without salt. By increasing their percentage in your program over time (as with all of our products), you can reduce your total salt load and begin to remediate your soil. And with it being applied as a foliar with its quick uptake, it minimizes nitrogen and phosphorous pollution from its lack of volatilization, overuse because of its lower application rates with higher percentage of uptake (90+% utilization) and runoff risk from lower percentage of soil contact. These benefits when analyzed in total, provide better yields with corresponding ROI’s. Guaranteed Analysis – Ferticell® Active™
Ferticell® Universal™ 0-0-1 is a highly concentrated solution containing an algae extract. Unlike kelp or seaweed products, Ferticell® Universal™ 0-0-1 utilizes unicellular algae (from a consistent parent culture) that is grown in fresh water. This is to reduce the risk of salt burn when used for foliar applications, and to reduce the salt added to soil in a fertility program. It is also a source of carbon, phytohormones and high levels of nutrient rich energy. Additionally, algae produces 50 X biomass of terrestrial plants. It was developed in Russia to clean polluted soil, transform a sandy to a healthy soil and can also be used to clean chemically polluted soil and water making their trees grow faster and stronger. It is THE Active Plasma Plant Nutrient: Active Plasma is a technology that makes use of microscopic single cell organisms as the delivery system for nutrients. It is a balanced nutrient supply held in a biological suspension (plasma). Plant growth substances found in higher plants and algae having similar functions as those found in specific soil fungi and bacteria used in Universal™. Various unicellular organisms are isolated and then grown in tanks. They are filtered daily with a percentage macerated to provide a feeding media for the remaining cells in the process. Ferticell® Universal™ 0-0-1 utilizes technologies to deliver nutrients and other important benefits directly to a plant’s cells. The algae cells are the delivery system of whatever input is applied using Universal™ or has it as part of the formula, e.g., Nutriplus™ 2.5-0-0. The process begins by using application methods that deliver our products directly to the leaf (foliar, fertigation and etc.). When applied as a foliar the product “sticks” to the plant leaf, the plasma contains a surfactant so it adheres (will not wash off, even in a light rain), then is quickly absorbed by the leaf through the stoma (in minutes) *. Once in the plant, the nutrient enriched algae cells are moved intercellularly (Inter-Cellular Exchange-I.C.E. Technology) until it reaches a plant cell that is deficient. The algae cell then attaches itself to the plant cell, and the nutrients are transferred from the alga cell to the plant cell in a balanced form. This process utilizes cytoplasmic streaming (based on the osmotic pressure differentials) and completes the transfer. This is also used by other Ferticell® nutrients when applied to the plants root. It can be in soil when directly applied or from spray falling to the soil during other applications. Algae cells that are not utilized by roots will remain in the soil as a food source for soil microbes, maintaining and increasing the biome. Universal™ also contains low concentrations of plant growth substances that through biosynthesis facilitates and influences growth. These are not nutrients, but small amounts of chemicals, phytohormones (Greek meaning to Set in Motion). These phytohormones in Universal™ differ from synthetic hormones since the ratios are more balanced for a consistent response. These phytohormones facilitate gene expression, transcription levels, cellular division for differentiation of cells/tissues to promote growth, and development. The most important phytohormones are categorized in five classes. Abscisic Acid (called ABA), one of the most important that typically stimulates cell elongation to influence growth and interrelations between their parts for improved development. Auxins (IAA) promote root stimulation to produce other growth substances in conjunction with Cytokinins. First of the five to be discovered. Cytokinins are a group of chemicals that also influence cell division, shoot formation, delay deterioration from age, and bring about auxin transport. Ethylene gas is formed during the breakdown of methionine found in all cells. Gibberellins (called GA's) promote flowering and cellular division. Will also reverse the restriction of shoot growth and dormancy induced by ABA. These organic substances are naturally occurring to directly influence the orderly process development of a plant. It requires a sequence of activations to produce the required proteins at the appropriate time. They function as chemical messengers to influence physiological processes regulating both internal and external responses. They counteract abiotic stress to maintain growth and survival. Applied during high stress yields continued growth with differentiation (peak phytochemical production in plants) for: Deliver High Energy Carbon in live / dormant algae cells. In one study, it demonstrated 4 x more cytokinin. Rhizophagy is enhanced when phytochemicals are directly used. Root exploitation / pseudo hormonal effect Supports Minimal Leaching Direct Benefits of Utilizing Universal™ 0-0-1 in all your applications: Provides faster assimilation when used with other nutrients applied as foliar and soil applications. It can be used with insecticides, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc. for faster assimilation as well, which leads to quicker kills IN the plant. Increases root development by promoting more lateral and deeper roots. Also contains Auxins and Cytokinin’s, which are in balance, so they do not harm plants. Increases resistance to disease, fungus, insects, and other pests. Developing more homogeneous fruits Should be applied during growth flush - for frame building and root flush (rinsing a plant's root zone with water to remove excess nutrients and salts) when a period of intense root growth takes place. Also used for Pre-Bloom, bloom stick, and bud stick for increased flowering and decreased flower loss. Direct feeding building blocks of plants, bypassing Soil N process Polysaccharides – energy During early stress mitigation used in combination with Ferticell® Nutri Plus™ 2.5-0-0 Compatible with pesticides and other fertilizers Energy from D Plus – Lactic Acid = Growth + Immune Response+ Stress Response Increases yield production and ROI. *How Universal™ 0-0-1 Works in the Plant Cytoplasmic Streaming
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.