Fertigation is the application of fertilizer materials through the irrigation system. It is commonly via traditional spray irrigation, or through center pivot and micro sprinkles. Think of one’s fertilizer being gently fed in small amounts every time the irrigation system waters, allowing plants to develop healthier root masses for strength, drought tolerance, and less susceptibility to insects as well as disease.
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There are different benefits that make fertigation the preferable method of fertilization. According to a recent study investigating fertilizer application using fertigation versus traditional granular application, fertilizer uptake into plants can climb to 90 percent versus lower absorption levels for traditional ones, including time-released ones.
Fertigation promotes controlled application of nutrients and water, increased flexibility of fertilizer application, better timing of application alongside crop growth stage, and small dosage application. It also minimizes leaching and negative environmental effects. Much of the non-point source pollution (NPSP) in the country is the result of fertilizer runoff, which can be eliminated when fertilizer is supplied to the landscape in small amounts, entailing greater absorption by the plants.
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Fertigation also promotes increased water and fertilizer use efficiency, potentially reduced fertilizer inputs and production costs, and fewer weeds as fertilizer is only applied to the crop or plant. While there may be potential concerns such as increased management, the need for water-soluble fertilizer, and caution against emitter clogging, investing in an appropriate and high-quality fertigation system and fertilizer is likely to mitigate the risks and provide better results.
EZ-FLO Fertilizing Systems were developed to provide irrigation and injection technologies for homes, cities, parks, gardens, sports fields, resorts, and any other form of growing and landscape. Learn more about it on this website.
