Chelated form: what does the formula mean, how to apply these fertilizers to plants

Chelated fertilizers are becoming more and more popular. These funds include a balanced combination of mineral-organic components, which are distinguished by a complex structure. The use of this type of top dressing helps to achieve an excellent effect and quickly saturate the plants with nutrients. It is important to follow the instructions for use clearly.

What is a chelated form

In fact, chelate compounds are a balanced combination of mineral-organic substances that have a complex structure. This type of dressing is based on a special chelating agent that captures substances like claws.This is how the name of fertilizers is translated from English.

The compound retains trace element ions in a soluble state and at the same time bypasses the production of s alts. When the drug interacts with the plant, organic matter decays. At the same time, the element itself is actively absorbed by the cells of the roots or enters the seeds.

The composition of useful substances resemble vitamins and chlorophyll. They are easily absorbed by plants. Chelates have a long shelf life. They do not deteriorate during transportation and do not contain synthetic impurities.

On the basis of chelates, almost all innovative products are made that are used to treat plants and increase their vital activity. Chelating agents are complex acids. They differ in ion binding strength and acidity ratio.

Microelements in the form of chelates are much more effective than ordinary organic substances. Many gardeners and professional companies use these fertilizers for soil and hydroponic systems. Such substances have the following advantages:

• economical consumption - this is due to the high concentration of nutrients and a good degree of absorption;
• high degree of absorption of active ingredients - this leads to an increase in yield parameters and improved taste;
• safe to use, no risk of nitrate accumulation, gentle on plants, environmental friendliness.

Types of chelate fertilizers

Chelated fertilizers are made on the basis of vital trace elements - zinc, iron, copper, magnesium. They all differ in chemical formula.

Chelating agents are responsible for the binding of trace elements:

• EDTA - for soil with acidity parameters 1.5-6;
• DTRA - for soil with pH 1.5-7;
• EDDNA - for soil with pH 3-10;
• EDF - for soil with acidity 4.5-11.

As a rule, the type of chelating agent is listed on the package. The drug may include 1 component or several at once. They are produced in the form of crystals or liquid.

When needed?

Chelates are used for plants of different types - fruits, berries, vegetables. It is also permissible to feed ornamental crops with these fertilizers.

In order for fertilizers to give the desired effect, they must be applied at certain stages of crop growth. These tools can handle the following:

1. Seeds before planting. They can be soaked in a fertilizer solution in combination with dressing.
2. Seedlings and seedlings. Thanks to irrigation with chelating substances, it is possible to improve the survival and development of crops in a new place, accelerate their adaptation, and increase resistance to infections.
3. Crops before flowering. This helps to increase the number of ovaries.
4. Plants during fruit growth. Chelates help increase yield parameters and improve fruit quality.

Chelates can be combined with pesticides or use their solutions after chemical treatment. This will greatly speed up the recovery of crops.

How to take minerals

The use of chelate dressings requires compliance with a number of rules and recommendations. The maximum effect can be obtained by processing the seed material with subsequent top dressing. During the growing season, funds can be used root or foliar.

In addition, fertilizers in the form of chelates can be combined with other drugs and chemicals. Before using the funds, be sure to read the instructions. Chelated top dressings can be applied in the following ways:

1. In the form of a solution for soaking seed before planting.
2. In the form of root dressing. Depositing funds at the root has the only drawback. The fact is that some of the nutrients can go too deep into the ground. This makes them unavailable to plants.
3. As a foliar application. When chelates hit the surface of the leaves, they easily penetrate into the structure and give the plant nutrients.
4. In the form of drip irrigation. This is a fairly effective method that ensures that chelates reach the roots.

Safety precautions

When using chelated dressings, it is worth using protective equipment. After completing the work, you need to wash your face and hands with soap.

Analogues

There are no exact analogues of chelate agents. However, they can be replaced with complex mineral or organic supplements.

Chelated forms of fertilizer are considered very effective. They are easily absorbed by plants, saturating them with nutrients.

Recommended