Fert Calculations

pumpkins@mallorn.com wrote:
> 
> Paul,
> 
> I have little experience in chemical ferts, but my local expert warned me of
> mixing different types of ferts. He tells me that the chemical composition
> of different types may be off enough to neutralize  the chemicals or at
> worst, actually harm the plant.
> 
  I don't expect any problems. insoluble precipitates would be the only
problem I can think of. Mix the clear solution of each and if no
cloudiness occurs, I can't think of any problem. 

> I have seen MURIATE of POTASH, potassium chloride. 
  I don't think I have a good reason but many experienced agronomists
try to avoid chlorides saying root damage is more likely. They prefer K
NO3, but you are trying to avoid nitrogen--try potassium sulfate, but
you probably don't have much choice from most suppliers.
> KCL is about 40% K.
> Can I
> > mix this with something like Miracle Gro 10-15-10 .  I figure three parts
> by
> > weight of the 10-15-10 and one of the KCl would give me about 7.5-11-17.
> Is
> > KCl OK as a supplement in foliar sprays?
  Your math is correct. I see nothing wrong with mixing them. I would be
cautious as some say chlorine can burn leaves. I have not sprayed any
table salt on leaves to find out. 
  I have not seen proof that plants can absorb thru the foliage.
Therefore, I belong to the camp of scientists who don't believe
fertilizers are absorbed via leaves. The chemists hired by Foliar
companies below to the other camp. I put fertilizer in the soil where
everyone agrees plants can use them. I do not know the answer--I speak
only for myself.
-- 
Harold Eddleman Ph.D. Microbiologist.       i*@disknet.com 
Location: Palmyra IN USA; 36 kilometers west of Louisville, Kentucky




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