Choosing the right water-soluble fertilizer

To ensure optimal use of fertilizers and produce the best quality plants with a high sales price, fertilizer and water must work in perfect harmony. Low quality of irrigation water is the main cause of many crop and growth problems. Therefore, it is important to analyze your water quality and choose the right fertilizer for your particular crop and growing situation. This is crucial as salts in irrigation water impact EC and pH levels in potting soil, which in turn affects the crop. 

Step 1

Contact ICL Lab Services for an irrigation water analysis. They will not only test the pH and EC values, but also check the level of bicarbonate (HCO3), and the composition (the different elements). 

Step 2

Determine whether acidification of the water is needed. We recommend acidifying water if the bicarbonate levels are higher than 2.5 mmol/liter (= 152.75 g/l). The right way to acidify depends on a number of factors. Please contact your local ICL Territory Manager for tailor-made advice. Remember that the quality of water can change when you mix spring water with rainwater. Also, keep in mind to change your fertilization plan if your rainwater is replenished. 

Step 3

Select the right Peters water-soluble fertilizer for your plants and growing conditions.