Chelated Iron

Normally iron deficiency or any other mineral deficiency is linked to humans. But how many of us are aware of the fact that plants also need their share of iron for proper growth, manufacture of chlorophyll, and also to prevent infestation of parasites and bugs? Fertilizers are a kind of nutrients containing organic elements that are added to the soil to improve their quality. There are different types of fertilizers that can be added to the soil to improve the soil's nutrient content and promote healthy plant growth. Using chelated iron for plants will treat the iron deficiency and also keep plant diseases from affecting the crops or plants.

Chelated Iron Fertilizer

Chelated iron, which is also known as iron chelate, is a mixture of iron and other substances that is used for the purpose of gardening and agriculture. The main ingredients are iron and amino acids. The iron undergoes a process known as chelation, where the molecules of iron are connected to a single molecule of amino acid. A ring structure of both these compounds is formed which aids in its easy absorption into the plant's body. This fertilizer is used in places where the soil has been depleted of its iron content. Due to this dearth, plants turn yellow due to deficiency and wither away. This plant disease is called chlorosis. In order to prevent this destructive plant disease, the soil is mixed with iron chelate. Once this fertilizer is mixed with the soil, there is a visible improvement in the condition of the plant. It increases the level of chlorophyll and also reduces the yellowing of stems. Iron chelate is also one of the best natural lawn fertilizers that makes the lawn look more greener.

How to Apply Chelated Iron to the Soil

Supplementing the soil with iron will give your garden or lawn a lush appearance with plants and trees growing in a healthy manner. Application of iron chelate to the soil is beneficial for the plants and can be done in a few simple steps.

• Before using the fertilizer, you must check the soil for its nutrient content and if there is any depletion. The soil sample can be taken to a landscape center where the condition and fertility of the soil is tested.
• If the soil sample shows a deficiency of iron, then the gardening professional may recommend you to use an iron rich fertilizer and also advise you about the composition which is suitable for your soil type. The professional may also recommend the best fertilizer containing chelated iron
• You can purchase chelated iron from various garden centers. As seen earlier, iron chelate is available in two forms - granulated and liquid. To apply this fertilizer to the soil, follow the instructions that have been given on the package or carton.
• If you are using the granulated form, then spread the fertilizer on the tilled soil, near the lower stem of the plant. If you are using it on a lawn, then spread it evenly on the entire lawn, with the help of lawn fertilizer spreaders.
• For the liquid solution, dilute 6 ounces of iron chelate in 5 gallons of water (approximate amount) and spray this liquid fertilizer on the lawn and also on the entire plants. Since iron chelate fertilizer may contain toxins unsafe for humans, it is advisable to wear protective gear like hand gloves and face mask to avoid direct contact.

Always use organic fertilizers, like chelated iron supplement, to prevent the loss of the soil's natural fertility. Chemical fertilizers can increase the pH levels and the acidity of the soil, which can damage the plants.