soils and Fertilization pt 2 nov 24

Overview of Turf Fertilization

  • Primary Focus on Turf Growth
    • Objective is to promote green leafy growth.
    • Fertilizers have high levels of nitrogen, low phosphorus, and potassium.
    • Phosphorus and potassium are still necessary as they help in the uptake of nitrogen.

Fertilizer Composition and Ratios

  • Nitrogen Types and Ratios

    • Preferred nitrogen ratio: 1/3 ammoniacal nitrogen to 2/3 nitrate nitrogen.
    • Ammoniacal nitrogen is volatile and provides quick plant access, but can be lost quickly.
    • Nitrate nitrogen is accessed as ammoniacal nitrogen dissipates.
    • Caution advised for ratios greater than 1:3:2; these should be intentional applications.

  • Water Soluble Fertilizers

    • Example: Triple 15 (15-15-15) Geranium Special.
    • Analysis of micro-trace nutrients alongside primary macronutrients.
    • Nutrients vary between crops; micronutrient packs are engineered for specific plants (e.g., geraniums vs. poinsettias).

Fertilizer Labeling and pH Impact

  • Label Clarity Issues

    • Users often require simplified information (e.g., application rates per 1000 sq. ft.).
    • Technical analysis (e.g., pH, nutrient breakdown) is often esoteric for the average user.

  • Effects of pH on Fertilizers

    • Most fertilizers are typically acidic (pH < 7).
    • Influencing factors include the use of limestone and other buffers to adjust pH.
    • Types of fertilizers available:
    • Acidifiers
    • Basic fertilizers
    • Alkaline fertilizers
    • Importance of selecting the appropriate formulation for application context.

  • Chemical Carriers and pH Adjusters

    • Common adjusters: dolomitic limestone, calcium nitrate, sodium bicarbonate.
    • Fillers and conditioners enhance application efficacy (e.g., wetting agents).

Legal and Licensing Considerations

  • Licensing for Fertilizer Application
    • No license required for general fertilizer application.
    • Pesticide licenses are necessary for specialty ingredient applications (e.g., "weed and feed").
    • Regulations apply to herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides.
    • Dyes, wetting agents, and solubilizers are typically not regulated.

Application Techniques

  • Types of Fertilizer Applications

    • Slow release granular fertilizers are commonly used.
    • Duration of effectiveness ranges from 2-3 months, influenced mainly by moisture and soil type.
    • Importance of correct timing and weather in determining fertilizer effectiveness.

  • Spreader Types and Usage

    • Differentiation between pendulum spreaders (used in nurseries and vineyards) and broadcast spreaders (used in turf applications).
    • Broadcast spreaders deliver a uniform application across a wide area.
    • Caution against using drop spreaders for fertilizer or lime due to potential uneven application and striping effects.
    • Importance of overlap in application to prevent striping from uneven coverage.

Controlled and Slow Release Fertilizers

  • Controlled Release Technology

    • Designed to release nutrients over specified periods.
    • Benefits include reduced risk of leaching and burn.

  • Application Equipment for Granular Products

    • Equipment options include specific backpack spreaders and injection systems for targeted nutrient delivery.
    • Use of feeding needles to inject fertilizers directly into soil, as well as foliar feeding techniques.

Water Soluble Fertilizers

  • Advantages of Water Solubility

    • Quicker results compared to granular fertilizers; less risk of burning grass.
    • Easier operational handling compared to heavy granular products, often resulting in labor savings.
    • Use of water solubles preferred in landscape applications for annuals, perennials, and trees due to reduced equipment needs.

  • Application Techniques for Water Solubles

    • Techniques include root injections and spraying using specific devices designed for water solubility.
    • Importance of correct mixing and application rates to prevent nutrient burn.