Smart Tools to Optimize Your Plant Nutrition

To understand which controlled release fertilizer works best, the first step is to consider how you apply the fertilizer. The right product primarily depends on whether it is incorporated into the growing medium, applied in the planting hole, or placed on top of the substrate as a top dressing.

The longevity of a controlled release fertilizer is the period of time required for it to release its nutrients. The appropriate longevity depends on the crop’s growth cycle and nutritional requirements. Some crops have a long production cycle (e.g. conifers), while others have a short production cycle (e.g. bedding annuals).

The digital fertilizer choosers available on this page should be selected according to the fertilizer categories included in your fertilization program. We offer 3 choosers:

• 1 for controlled release fertilizers (incorporated into the substrate or applied in the planting hole),
• 1 for water-soluble fertilizers (applied through irrigation),
• 1 for top-dress fertilizers (applied directly to the substrate surface in containers).

The fourth tool is a calculator that can be used whenever you need to convert units of measurement, such as distance, weight, volume, or temperature.

Water quality plays an important role in determining the most suitable water-soluble fertilizer. When using soft water, it is important to choose fertilizers that supply calcium and magnesium, as these nutrients are often present only in limited amounts. When using hard water, fertilizers with an acidifying effect can help counteract high bicarbonate levels and reduce irrigation water pH.

The right top-dress fertilizer depends on your production goals. Top dressing is often used when plants need an additional nutrient boost, for example when plants remain unsold for longer than expected, when the initial fertilizer charge has been exhausted, or when a rapid greening effect is required. The first question to ask is whether you need a quick green-up response or long-term feeding. Another important consideration is whether there is a risk of pots tipping over and spilling the fertilizer.

You only need basic information about your growing conditions and production practices. Simply answer the questions displayed on the screen, and the tool will suggest the product or product range best suited to your situation.

ICL’s digital agronomic tools are provided for general information and decision-support purposes only. The results generated depend on the information entered and local growing conditions. Fertilizer recommendations should always be developed by a qualified technical advisor who can not only assess the specific crop and growing conditions but also understand how different fertilizers work and fit together within an effective nutrition plan.