You can get iron into the soil primarily by adding iron supplements, especially when the soil is deficient in iron or has a pH level that makes existing iron unavailable to plants.
Adding Iron Supplements to Soil
Plants require iron for healthy growth, and a lack of available iron in the soil can lead to nutrient deficiencies, often seen as yellowing leaves (chlorosis). To address this, specific products can be added to the soil to provide plants with the necessary iron.
Using Chelated Iron Products
According to sources, using powdered or granulated chelated iron is a recommended method to treat the soil and correct pH imbalances that hinder iron uptake. Chelated iron is a form of iron that is chemically bound to a chelating agent, which helps keep the iron soluble and available to plants even in alkaline soils where iron would otherwise become fixed and inaccessible.
Application Guidelines
When applying chelated iron to your soil:
- Form: Use powdered or granulated forms as specified.
- Location: Apply the iron around the root zone of the plant. This ensures the iron is placed where the plant's roots can most easily absorb it.
- Instructions: Always follow the package instructions regarding the application rate and frequency. Over-application can potentially harm plants.
Important Considerations When Adding Iron
It is vital to pay attention to the composition of the iron supplement you choose. If your iron supplement also contains other nutrients as a fertiliser, be mindful of the ingredients:
- Avoid Phosphorus: Ensure it doesn't contain phosphorus. High levels of phosphorus in the soil can interfere with iron uptake by plants, potentially leading to the very chlorosis symptoms you are trying to fix, even if iron is present.
Summary of Adding Iron to Soil
Here is a quick overview of the key points when adding iron using chelated supplements:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Method | Adding supplements to the soil |
| Recommended Type | Powdered or Granulated Chelated Iron |
| Purpose | Treat soil, correct pH imbalances, address deficiency |
| Application | Around the root zone |
| Dosage/Timing | Follow package instructions |
| Important Note | Avoid supplements containing phosphorus |
By following these guidelines and using appropriate chelated iron products, you can effectively increase the availability of iron in your soil for healthier plant growth.
