Foliar Feed Product Guide

Safacrop Limited4 Stapledon RoadOrton SouthgatePeterboroughUnited KingdomPE2 6TB

Tel: +44 (0)1733 367650Fax: +44 (0)1733 367651Email: [email protected]. safacrop.co.ukwww. safagrow.co.ukwww.safapac.co.uk

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About usSafacrop® Limited is a subsidiary of Safapac Holdings® Limited.

Safapac Limited was established in 1997 as a specialist manufacturer of farm chemicals from pesticides to fertilisers and micronutrients. As an independent, privately owned business it has built up a reputation for innovative and high quality products.

In recent years, the company has developed an extensive range of liquid Foliar Fertilisers and Micronutrients sold under the Safacrop® (NPK based liquid fertilisers and bio-stimulants) and sister business, Safagrow® brands (primarily inorganic micronutrients).

Safapac products are now found all over the world from Latin America to China.

ProductionManufacture of the product range is centred on a new, purpose built facility in the heart of United Kingdom, near the city of Peterborough, 70km north of London.

The modern factory houses state of the art production equipment and quality control laboratory which is used to ensure all products sold meet the highest quality standards.

Safapac employs 45 trained staff who are responsible for the manufacture of 3.5 million litres of high quality product a year.

Product is shipped all over the world from this factory.

A Quality Management system for ISO 9001 compliance and a GMP License are in place to ensure high standards for all products manufactured.

Product DevelopmentAs an innovative, research and development based business, formulation and product development facilities adjacent to the factory enable development chemists to identify new solutions to improve crop/plant health and yields.

Independent laboratory trials are carried out on all new products using Stockbridge Technology Centre (York).

Testing includes:> Safety Trials> Efficacy Trials> Field Trials

Tank mix testing is also outsourced to a partner specialising in such work and capable of testing with a huge range of common pesticide and fertiliser formulations.

Product Stewardship (starting materials)> All materials Reach compliant> Materials of defined specification are sourced from Approved suppliers only> Heavy metals: random checks performed by independent laboratory

Product Stewardship (finished product)> Every batch of product is analysed against specification> Representative sample of each batch of product retained for 3 years> Production and analytical documents kept for 5 years> Batch integrity retained > Full raw material traceability



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Meet usMartin Steele – Managing DirectorAfter gaining a degree in Pharmacy, Martin joined the Sussex-based pharmaceuticals division of Ciba. In 1992 he transferred to the company’s Agrochemical business in Whittlesford, just south of Cambridge, joining the board, with responsibility for all aspects of the supply chain.

Ciba integrated with Sandoz to form Novartis in 1996, giving Martin the opportunity to acquire the Ciba factory. Safapac® commenced operations in January 1997 as a contract manufacturer of agrochemicals and relocated to purpose built facilities in Peterborough in 2006.

The decision to launch a range of “own brand” crop micronutrients in 2010 led to the setting up of Safagrow®, utilising the production, quality control and technical support of the Safapac facility. Safagrow operate offices and a product development laboratory on the site shared with Safapac. In 2011 Safacrop® was established as a trading name for those products sold directly by Safapac.

Martin Edwards – Product Development ChemistAs a formulation chemist, Martin has been involved with many of the big developments in plant protection chemistry and formulation over the last thirty years, working on improving aspects of both usability and efficacy. For example, he was involved in the commercialization of Frigate, an additive that was discovered by the then Weed Research Organisation and found to enhance the activity of glyphosate. It spawned a whole new tank additive industry, which allowed farmers to get better value from their inputs.

Latterly, he has moved on to understanding how plant physiology affected the efficacy of different formulations, and why some chemicals were better absorbed through roots or leaves. In turn, he developed a theory about increasing an active’s activity at the site of absorbance. Today, it’s this theory that allows him to tailor Safapac’s nutritional formulations to maximise the efficacy of the fertilisers and nutrients.

John Blaydes – Technical DirectorStarted work in 1977 with Albright & Wilson then after two years joined a small OTC/cosmetic company based in East London. Joined Ciba Geigy Agrochemicals in 1985, as a Shift Chemist, responsible for ensuring manufactured product met required standards. Other areas of responsibility were environmental monitoring, analytical testing of customer complaints and product stability testing.

In 1997 joined Safapac, responsible for the Quality function and setting up of the laboratory, liaising closely with customers and regulatory authorities.

Responsibilities include raw material sourcing, product quality assurance and product safety documentation.

Andrew Baskerville – External ConsultantWith over 20 years management experience in manufacturing in roles encompassing quality control and assurance, production, logistics and purchasing in both the private and public sector. Andrew has a strong background in international trade including contract negotiations having previously held the position of Operations Manager for Omex Agrifluids before leaving to start his own consultancy business.

Andrew advises on product development and is also responsible for sales and marketing in the Eastern Hemisphere.



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Benefits of Liquid Foliar NutritionSafacrop® foliar feed products are not a replacement for soil fertilisation. Plants receive most of their nutrient needs (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) from the soil. The basal application of fertilisers is effective and economical. However, a foliar application supplements a plants requirement for secondary nutrients (calcium, magnesium, sulphur) and micronutrients (zinc, manganese, iron, copper, boron, and molybdenum), while compensating N-P-K needs for short and/or critical growth stage periods.

The benefit of a foliar feed is that it can have up to a 90% efficiency rate of uptake as opposed to a 10% efficiency from soil applications. The nutrient also becomes immediately available in the plant because they are 100% water soluble. Foliar application is intended to delay natural senescence processes shortly after the end of reproductive growth stages. Foliar feed should target growth stages where declining rates of photosynthesis and levelling off of root growth and nutrient absorption occur. It will also aid in the translocation of nutrients into seed, fruit, tuber or vegetative production. Foliar applications are an effective management tool to favourably influence pre-reproductive growth stages by compensating for environmentally induced stresses of adverse growing conditions and/or poor nutrient availability. Early foliar applications can make an already good crop better, either by stimulating more vigorous re-growth or maximizing the yield potential growth stage period. The advantages of foliar feeding in accomplishing the desired crop responses are: 1. It is a highly efficient and timely method of applying needed and/or critical plant nutrients. 2. It is a means of compensating for soil or environmentally induced nutrient deficiencies.

In order to achieve the benefits of foliar feeding, combining proper methods of application and the best suited nutrient materials related to specific crops is essential.

Proper Timing of Foliar Applications

Proper Growth Stage: This is an important and critical aspect of a foliar feeding program. Foliar applications should be timed to provide needed nutrients during a time frame of plant development, which will in turn favourably influence the post reproductive development stages. Multiple, low rate applications may show the most favourable responses within these time frames. Careful crop growth stage monitoring on a weekly, and sometimes a daily basis, is essential

Proper Crop Condition: Generally, crops that are nutritionally sound will be most likely to respond to foliar feeding. This is due to better tissue quality (allowing for maximum absorption of nutrients into leaf and stem) and better growth vigour (allowing for translocatable nutrients to be rapidly moved to the rest of the plant). Crops under heat or moisture stress show less response to foliar applications due to lower leaf and stem absorption rates and/or poor vigour. Foliar feeding does however benefit crop performance and yield if an application is made prior to heat or moisture stress. Recovery from cold growing conditions and herbicide stress can be hastened with proper foliar applications.

Foliar spraying stimulates the plants to create exudates in the roots which excite microbes to work harder and thus increases nutrient uptake from the soil. Foliar sprays are a great supplement to boost flavours, sweetness, mineral density and yield from crops.



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Application GuidelinesTo maximise the uptake of nutrients during foliar applications, one should follow these simple instructions:> Spray should ideally be made early in the morning or in the evening.> To crops that are actively growing.> Avoid spraying in hot or windy conditions.> A spray of an appropriate nutrient at the outset of stress is advisable rather than an

application of nutrients after plants suffer from stresses.

Instructions for use of Safacrop foliar products

Safacrop® foliar products conform to EC Fertilizer Regulations where applicable. Products have been specially formulated to include wetters and stickers that will reduce run off of product from the leaf surface.

Shake the bottle well before use. Measure out the indicated amount of Safacrop® product into a bucket of water or similar receptacle. Mix until dissolved. Add to the spray tank pre-filled with the required quantity of water. If choosing to mix products in spray tank, add Safacrop® product first and allow to fully dissolve.

N.B. Crystallisation can be a product characteristic under certain conditions. Containers should be shaken before use and rinsed thoroughly to dissolve residual crystals. If crystals enter the spray tank they will naturally dissolve. Gentle agitation will speed this process.

Storage: Safacrop® foliar products should be stored in an optimum storage range between 5°C and 40°C, hence avoid frost and keep out of direct sunlight. These products are mostly non-hazardous and non-inflammable.

Safety: Safacrop® foliar products can be mixed with most but not all fungicides and insecticides. Before mixing please refer to the instructions for use. Safacrop® cannot accept any liability for any loss or damage resulting from tank mixes, as it is impossible to screen all possible mixes and conditions. Safacrop® recommends the buyer tests the proposed mix on small scale first.



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Types of Fluid FertilisersThe major types of fluid fertilisers are solution fertilisers and suspension fertilisers. Solution fertilisers are dissolved completely in water. True solution fertilisers can be stored as long as the temperature stays above freezing. Suspension fertilisers are very concentrated, are partially dissolved and some of the nutrients are suspended in the water. Suspensions tend to settle out if not used soon after blending, this increases with extremes of temperature particularly where the product is subject to repeated freeze/thaw cycles. Suspension fertilisers should be thoroughly shaken before use by laying the bottle sideways and then shaking horizontally. For 200 Litre or 1000 Litre units a mechanical agitator may be required .

Safapac foliar products conform to EC Fertilizer Regulations where applicable.

Shake the bottle well before use. Measure out the indicated amount of Safapac product into a bucket of water or similar receptacle. Mix until dissolved. Add to the spray tank pre-filled with the required quantity of water. If choosing to mix products in spray tank, add Safapac product first and allow to fully dissolve

Precautions: Safapac foliar products should be stored in an optimum storage range between 5~40°C. These products are mostly non-hazardous and non-inflammable foliar products. Safapac foliar products can be mixed with most but not all fungicides and insecticides. Before mixing please refer to the instructions for use.

Pack Size1, 5, 10 and 20 L (minimum fill) HDPE containers

Size No. of packs(per box)

No. of packs (per pallet)

1 L 12 x 1 L 480 x 1 L

5 L 4 x 5 L 120 x 5 L

10 L 2 x 10 L 52 x 10 L

20 L 32 x 20 L

200 L 4 x 200 L

1000 L 1 x 1000 L

Safapac Limited4 Stapledon RoadOrton SouthgatePeterboroughUnited KingdomPE2 6TB

Tel: +44 (0)1733 367650Fax: +44 (0)1733 367651www. Safacrop.comwww. Safagrow.comwww.Safapac.co.uk

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NPK+The most widely used of all N-P-K fertilizers is 20-20-20 (all purpose fertilizer). NPK+ is a very effective fertilizer on all types of plants and crops because of its balanced formula and micronutrient pack. It may be used whenever a more specific formula is not required. It meets the nutritional requirements of many crops and it is recommended for all crops, when a balanced formula is required and as a foliar feed to correct nutrient deficiencies in various agricultural and horticultural crops. NPK+ contains micronutrients and can be applied as a foliar feed or in a fertigation system.

Use: As general foliar or liquid feed.

Crops: Suitable for all crops, fruit trees, vegetable crops and ornamental plants all round the year.

Function: NPK+ can be used as a foliar feed on a wide range of crops to improve yield, vigour, growth and general plant health. NPK+ can also be applied in a drip irrigation system.

Analysis of NPK+

Wt/Vol Wt/Wt

Total Nitrogen 20.00% 13.20%

Nitrate N 11.40% 7.50%

Ammonia N 8.60% 5.70%

Phosphate P2O5 20.00% 13.20%

Potassium K2O 20.00% 13.20%

Magnesium Oxide MgO 1.50% 1.00%

Iron (EDTA) Fe 0.146% 0.096%

Zinc (EDTA) Zn 0.073% 0.048%

Copper (EDTA) Cu 0.073% 0.048%

Manganese (EDTA) Mn 0.073% 0.048%

Boron B 0.029% 0.019%

Cobalt (EDTA) Co 0.0012% 0.0008%

Molybdenum Mo 0.0012% 0.0008%

pH (10% Solution) 4.00–5.00

Specific Gravity 1.52 @ 18ºC

Recommended application rates

ml/L of water

Cereals 2.0 ml from flowering & thereafter as required

Wheat 2 ml from flowering & thereafter as required

Oilseed 2.0 ml after flowering and applications thereafter as required

Potato 2 ml after head formationand as required

Fruits

Vegetables 2ml after flowering & thereafter as required

Ornamentals & Vegetables: Greenhouse/Polyhouse



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Bio+Bio+ is a balanced N-P-K fertiliser containing micronutrients and seaweed extract. The application of Bio+ in foliar application as well as in fertigation gives remarkable results in the yield of the crop. Bio+ applied at the 2-4 leaf stage of seedlings in the nursery stimulates root mass and seedling growth. The vitality of seedlings is greatly enhanced with the application of Bio+. Post transplant application of Bio+ reduces transplant shock and seedlings are quick to recover. Application of Bio+ at times of abiotic stresses to crops and trees have recovered as compared to those without treatment. Crops which have been treated with Bio+ in early stages of growth have shown better performance in terms of fruit quality, yield and plant health. The biostimulant in Bio+ is organic and is extracted from seaweed.

Use: As general foliar or liquid feed . Particularly useful at times of abiotic stress.


Function: Bio+ is a foliar feed with balanced micronutrients and seaweed. The development of a healthy root zone in seedlings as well as the vigour of the seedling helps the seedling to recover rapidly post transplant. The uptake of nutrients by plants treated with Bio+ is significant, as mobility of macro and micro elements are efficient due to the improved health of the plant. Bio+ can be used across a wide range of crops , fruit trees, ornamental and flowering plants to improve the general health and efficiency of plants. Bio+ is recommended for plants where weedicide has been applied to the soil prior to sowing.

Analysis of Bio+

Wt/Vol Wt/Wt


Nitrate N 11.40% 7.50%

Ammonia N 8.60% 5.70%

Phosphate P2O5 20.00% 13.20%



Iron (EDTA) Fe 0.146% 0.096%

Zinc (EDTA) Zn 0.073% 0.048%



Boron B 0.029% 0.019%

Cobalt (EDTA) Co 0.0012% 0.0008%


Seaweed Extract 28.00% 18.40%

pH (10% Solution)

4.00–5.00




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Bio+ (continued)


ml/L of water

Apples 2.5ml at pea size stage

Avocado 2.5 ml from flowering & thereafter @2 week intervals

Beans 2 ml from flowering & thereafter@2week intervals

Brussel Sprouts 2.5 ml from flowering & thereafter @2 week intervals

Banana 2 ml every 20 days from formation of fruit

Cabbage, Caulilower 2ml at button size head formation

Cherry, Plums 2 ml at formation of pea sized fruit & thereafter @2 week intervals

Cotton 2ml @ 4 leaf stage & 2 ml at flower initiation

Peppers, Tomatoes, Brinjals & Cucurbits 2ml from flowering & thereafter@2week intervals

Potatoes 2.5 ml between 40 ~ 45 days after planting

Strawberries 2 ml from 40th day after planting. 3 applications every 2 weeks

Pears 2.5ml from petal fall. 3 to 4 applications every 2 weeks

Paddy 2.5 ml at formation of pannicle

Ornamentals: Greenhouse/Polyhouse

Carnation 2ml every 15 days from 7 days after 1st pinching.

Gerbera 2ml twice a month from 60 days after planting

Rose 2ml twice a month (both old & new plants)

Nursery 2 ml @ 4 leaf stage, repeat again after 7 days.

Post transplant of all seedlings 2 ml after 4 days of transplant



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K+K+ - a 10-20-40 fertiliser with micronutrients, is a balanced foliar feed for the application on crops or plants needing an additional dose of potassium either due to a lack of potassium in the plant or due to the crop’s need of potassium at a particular stage of growth.

Use: As general foliar or liquid feed for use when crops require a greater dose of potassium along with balanced micronutrients.

Crops: Suitable for all crops, fruit trees, vegetable crops and ornamental plants as required.

Function: K+ can be used as a foliar feed on a wide range of crops to improve yield, vigour and growth. K+ can also be applied in drip irrigation systems. K+ promotes vigor and disease resistance, helps development of root system, improves plant quality, and increases winter hardiness due to carbohydrate storage in roots. K+ increases protein production, and is essential to starch, sugar and oil formation and transfer and in water relations. In fruit crops and vegetable crops K+ plays an important role in the skin quality, colour of the fruit and the size of the fruit/vegetable.

Analysis of K+

Wt/Vol Wt/Wt


Nitrate N 9.33% 5.19%

Ammonia N 0.67% 0.42%

Phosphate P2O5 20.00% 12.66%



Iron (EDTA) Fe 0.175% 0.111%

Zinc (EDTA) Zn 0.088% 0.056%



Boron B 0.035% 0.022%

Cobalt (EDTA) Co 0.0011% 0.0007%


pH (10% Solution) 4.00–5.00



ml/L of water

Cereals For Potassium deficient crops 2 ml every 2 weeks

Vegetables 2.5 ml from fruiting and every 2 weeks thereafter

Cabbage, Caulilower 2ml at button size head formation and every 2 weeks thereafter

Cherry, Plums 2 ml at formation of pea sized fruit & thereafter @ 2 week intervals

Peppers, Tomatoes, Brinjals & Cucurbits 2ml from flowering & thereafter @ 2week intervals

Potatoes 2.5 ml between 40–45 days after planting

Ornamentals: Greenhouse/Polyhouse 2 ml twice a month from 45–50 days after planting



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P+P+ - a 10-40-20 water soluble emulsion fertiliser with micronutrients. It is a balanced foliar feed for the application on crops or plants needing an additional dose of phosphorous. The requirement of phosphorous can be due to a lack of it in the plant or due to the crop’s need of phosphorous at a particular stage of growth.



Function: P+ can be used as a foliar feed on a wide range of crops where phosphorous deficiency is observed. It can be generally used in early growth stages or after seedlings have been transplanted. It will improve the vigour and growth of the plant. P+ can also be applied in drip irrigation systems.

Analysis of P+

Wt/Vol Wt/Wt


Nitrate N 4.65% 3.05%

Ammonia N 5.35% 3.50%

Phosphate P2O5 40.00% 26.20%



Iron (EDTA) Fe 0.17% 0.111%

Zinc (EDTA) Zn 0.085% 0.056%



Boron B 0.035% 0.023%

Cobalt (EDTA) Co 0.0012% 0.0008%


pH (10% Solution) 4.00–5.00



ml/L of water

Cereals Early in crop cycle.

Vegetables 2 ml 20 days after transplant and repeat 2 weeks later

Cabbage, Caulilower 2 ml 20 days after transplant

Peppers, Tomatoes, Brinjals 2ml 20 days after transplant and repeat 2 weeks later

Ornamentals: Greenhouse/Polyhouse 2 ml early in growth period, repeat after 2 weeks

Other Crops Where phosphorus deficiency is observed, apply 2.5 ml and repeat after 2 weeks



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Foliar FeedFoliar Feed – With the need of nitrogen, phosphate and potassium to a growing crop during the early vegetative stages, Foliar Feed provides adequate quantities of macro and micronutrients to boost root growth, vigour and plant health. In soils that are deficient in nutrition and in inclement climatic conditions the movement of nutrients in the plant is inefficient. Foliar Feed is a water soluble nutrient which applied several times will improve yield and keep the plant healthy.


Crops: Suitable for all crops, fruit trees and vegetable crops all round the year.

Function: Foliar Feed can be used as a foliar feed on a wide range of crops to improve yield, vigour and growth.

Analysis of Foliar Feed

Wt/Vol Wt/Wt


Nitrate N 12.70% 8.20%

Ammonia N 11.30% 7.30%

Phosphate P2O5 24.00% 15.50%



Iron (EDTA) Fe 0.1625% 0.105%

Zinc (EDTA) Zn 0.080% 0.052%



Boron B 0.0325% 0.021%

Cobalt (EDTA) Co 0.0010% 0.0007%


pH (10% Solution) 4.00–5.00



ml/L of water

Cereals 2 ml in the early crop cycle and repeat every 3 weeks

Vegetables 2 ml after transplant and repeat every 3 weeks.

Cabbage, Caulilower 2 ml after transplant and after 2 weeks

Peppers, Tomatoes, Brinjals 2ml 20 days after transplant and repeat every 3 weeks

Ornamentals: Greenhouse/Polyhouse 2 ml early in growth period, repeat every 2 weeks

And in soil



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Cal+Depleted calcium in plants leads to a deterioration in cell membrane, loss of cell compounds and eventually death of cell and plant tissue . Calcium additionally plays a role in cell structure, in regulating cell and plant functions as a secondary messenger and in various plant functions from nutrient uptake, changes in cell status (of the plant) in reacting to the environmental and disease stresses. Heat stress in particular tends to elongate stem length while reducing leaf size in many crops. Calcium helps overcoming heat stress effects by improved stomatal function and other cell processes. Calcium’s role in the development of heat shock proteins that help plants tolerate stress to prolonged heat is also significant.

Calcium is also referred to as the plant’s first line of defense. Some organisms infect plants by penetrating cell tissue with enzymes known as pectinase. These enzymes dissolve pectins. A higher calcium content in plants, with higher concentration of pectins holding cells together will give plants a greater ability to withstand these enzymes. In some cases, the pectinase that the pathogen secretes is oxalic acid. This sequesters calcium from the leaf to form calcium oxalate. In such cases, the increase in calcium levels in leaf tissue or calcium in foliar applications will decrease the pathogen’s ability to invade the leaf.

Calcium too, plays a major role in the quality of many crops. Increasing fruit calcium promotes longer storage life and resists a range of physiological break down.

Cal+ is a concentrated (22.5% calcium) water soluble fluid emulsion with a balanced range of micro nutrients. It is a foliar nutrient product which is applied to a wide range of horticultural, vegetable, pulse, cereal, cotton, spice and floriculture crops. The application of Cal+ improves fruit firmness, storability, colour and skin finish. It is suitable for application during heat stress. Cal+ is a high quality foliar emulsion.

Deficiencies: Many crops exhibit Calcium deficiency. This deficiency also impacts the mobility of other nutrients such as nitrogen, potash or magnesium. Calcium is transported through the xylem and thus affects transpiration rate. Deficiency of calcium can be noticed on new leaf growth or during hot dry periods. Timings of application are therefore critical with most crops.

Crop symptom

Apples Bitter pit, Cork spot, Cracking, Internal Brownspot, Senescent breakdown, Water core

Avocado Pulp spot

Beans Hypocotyl necrosis

Brussel Sprouts Internal browning

Cabbage, Caulilower Tipburn and Club root

Carrots Cavity spot

Celery Blackheart

Cherry, Plums Cracking

Cotton Square shedding

Peppers, Tomatoes & Watermelon Blossom end rot

Potatoes Internal browning, Hollowheart, Storage disorders, Low solids, Skin quality

Strawberries & other Berries

Grapes Stem die back and short berry

Pears Superficial scald



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Crops: Suitable for all crops, fruit trees, vegetable crops and ornamental plants at the stage of rapid growth.

Function: Cal+ is used as a foliar feed on a wide range of crops to improve the keeping quality, the quality if the skin and colour of the crop..

Analysis of Cal+

Wt/Vol Wt/Wt

Total Nitrogen N 15.00% 10.00%

Nitrate 12.10% 8.05%

Ammonia N 0.90% 0.60%

Urea N 2.00% 1.35%

Calcium Ca 22.50% 15.00%

Magnesium Mg 3.00% 2.00%


Iron (EDTA) Fe 0.075% 0.050%

Boron B 0.075% 0.050%


Zinc (EDTA) Zn 0.030% 0.020%


pH (10% Solution ) 5.5–6.5



ml/L

Apples 2.5ml from petal fall. 3 to 4 applications every 2 weeks

Avocado 2.5 ml from flowering & thereafter @ 2 week intervals

Beans 2 ml from flowering & thereafter @ 2 week intervals

Brussel Sprouts 2.5 ml from flowering & thereafter @ 2 week intervals

Banana 2 ml every 20 days from formation of fruit

Cherry , Plums 2 ml at formation of pea sized fruit & thereafter @2 week intervals

Cotton 2 ml at flower initiation

Peppers, Tomatoes, Brinjals & Cucurbits 2ml from flowering & thereafter @ 2 week intervals

Potatoes 2.5 ml between 40 ~ 45 days after planting

Strawberries 2 ml from 40th day after planting. 3 applications every 2 weeks

Pears 2.5ml from petal fall. 3 to 4 applications every 2 weeks

Paddy 2.5 ml at formation of pannicle

Ornamentals: Greenhouse/Polyhouse

Carnation 2ml every 15 days from 7 days after 1st pinching.

Gerbera 2ml twice a month from 60 days after planting

Rose 2ml twice a month (both old & new plants)



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Boron+

Boron’s RoleBoron is an enzyme activator and is involved in the production of starch required for production of cellulose. The major function of boron is in sugar transport to meristem regions of roots and tops. It is needed in protein synthesis, and increases flower set, crop yield and quality. This is evidenced by the fact that transport of sugars is retarded in boron-deficient plants, resulting in reduced growth. In combination with adequate phosphorus, boron increases pollination, fruit set and seed development.

Boron Deficiency The first visible symptom of boron deficiency is death of the growing tips. This disorder is generally followed by growth of lateral shoots, the tips of which may also be deformed or die. The leaves of boron-deficient plants are usually thick, have a coppery texture, and become curled and brittle. Other symptoms include stunted roots, failure to set flowers, or flower abortion. Boron deficiency causes internal tissues to disintegrate, causing abnormalities such as distorted, cracked, or hollow stems.

Some crops exhibit specific symptoms. Beets, turnips, and potatoes exhibit poor tuber development. Apples have cork spot. Grapes form mixed clusters of small and large fruit, known as “hen and chicks.” Cotton leaves become thick and leathery with abnormally long spongy petioles. The shorter leaf petioles are often twisted and have small ruptures along the stem. The fruit and leaves exude a sticky substance. Flower buds become chlorotic with flared bracts. The squares and bowls dry up and often abort. Bolls that survive generally are deformed, are smaller in size, and fail to open fully. The application of boron on crops that are known to respond to it such as apple, cotton, peanut, sweet potato, and several vegetable and flower crops will remedy boron deficiency.

Use: As general foliar or liquid feed.Crops: Suitable for all crops, fruit trees, vegetable crops and ornamental plants all round the year.Function: Boron+ is a micronutrient formulation containing trace elements. It can be used as a foliar feed on a wide range of crops to remedy Boron deficiency. The performance of Boron+ is greatly improved with the help of trace elements.

Analysis of Boron+

Wt/Vol

Total Nitrogen 6.5%

Boron 15%

Zinc EDTA (as Zn) 0.33%

Copper EDTA (as Cu) 0.33%

Molybdenum 0.1%

pH (10% Soln) 7.5-8.5

Specific Gravity 1.35–1.38 @ 18ºC


ml/L of water

Apples 2.5 ml from petal fall. 3 to 4 applications every 2 weeks

Cabbage, Caulilower 2 ml at button size head formation

Cotton 2 ml at flower initiation

Vegetables 2 ml at flowering

Strawberries 2 ml just before flowering and after flowering

Grape 2 ml just before flowering and at fruit formation

Fruit 2 ml from petal fall and 3 weeks after



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Zinc 70Zinc’s RoleZinc is the most widely used micronutrient throughout the world due to its widespread deficiency or unavailability in soils in all continents

Zinc functions as an enzyme activator in carbohydrate metabolism and protein formation. It stimulates enzyme activity in the plant, particularly those associated with photosynthesis.

Zinc is needed by plants for growth hormone production and is particularly important for internode elongation.

Zinc has intermediate mobility in the plant and deficiency symptoms will initially show up in middle leaves. Crops with high zinc requirements include corn, onion and spinach. Those with medium requirements are beans, beet, cucumber, lettuce, potato, radish, soyabean, tobacco and tomato.

Zinc is one of the essential micronutrients required for optimum crop growth. Movement of zinc is highly dependent upon the soil moisture, and this may be the reason why, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas, zinc deficiency is seen more frequently.

Zinc’s role in MetabolismZinc plays an important role in many biochemical reactions within plants. Plants such as maize, sorghum and sugarcane show reduced photosynthetic carbon metabolism due to zinc deficiency. Zinc is also part of several other enzymes which prevents oxidative stress in plant cells. The following are other various functions of zinc in plants:> Production of auxin, an essential growth hormone> Regulates starch formation and proper root development> Formation of chlorophyll and carbohydrates> Enable plants to withstand lower air temperatures> Helps in the biosynthesis of cytochrome and maintains plasma membrane integrity, and

synthesis of leaf cuticle.

Whilst zinc is essential for every plant, the following crops have been found to be especially responsive zinc applications: corn, rice, wheat, sweet corn, cotton, citrus, most orchard crops and sorghum.

Zinc DeficiencyDeficiencies are normally associated with high pH sandy soils where there are high levels of phosphate.

The symptoms are:> Dusty brown spots of upper leaves of stunted plants> Uneven plant growth and patches of poorly established plants in the field> Decreased tillering, spike or spikelet sterility and interveinal chlorosis on leaves> Dicots shows drastic decrease in leaf size, loss of lustre and shoots die off.> Premature leaf fall, chiefly in apples.

Deficiency symptoms usually appear first on the relatively young leaves early in the growing season. In broad leaf plants, zinc deficiency results in shortening internodes (rosetting) and a decrease in leaf size (little leaf ). Deficient leaves display interveinal chlorosis, especially midway between the margin and midrib, producing a striping effect; some mottling may also occur. Zn deficient plants generally exhibit sever stunting. Flowering and seed set is also poor in affected plants.

Zinc 70 Zinc 70 is a specially formulated foliar application of Zinc designed to treat crops which are showing signs of zinc deficiency. The product has been engineered to optimise the uptake of zinc by the plant through adhesion to the surface and optimised spray droplet contact area.

Contains:Zinc (Zn) 700g/ltNitrogen 10g/lt



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Zinc 70 (continued)


Litre

Apples and Pears 1-2 l/ha at bud burst and end of flowering. Avoid flowering. Apply again after harvest but before leaf fall. Water rate: 200 to 1,000 l/ha.

Brassicas 1 l/ha at 4-9 leaves. Water rate: 200 l/ha.

Carrots 1 l/ha when crop is 15 cm tall. In case of moderate to severe deficiency repeat same rate at 10 to 14 day intervals. Water rate: 200 l/ha.

Cereals 1 l/ha from 2 leaves to first node detectable (Zadok’s G.S. 12-31). Water rate: 200 l/ha.

Cherries and Plums 1 l/ha applied at winter bud or pink bud and again after harvest before leaf fall. Water rate: 500 to 1,000 l/ha.

Conifers 2 applications of 1 l/ha once there is new season leaf growth and again in early autumn. Water rate: 500 to 1,000 l/ha.

Pasture (grazing) 1 l/ha 10-14 days prior to turnout. Water rate: 200 l/ha.

Pasture (hay/silage) 1 l/ha when grass is 15 cm tall. In case of severe deficiency repeat at the same rate at the 15 cm stage before each subsequent cut. Water rate: 200 l/ha.

Grass (amenity)/turf 1 l/ha with the beginning of new growth in the spring and/or following deficiency shown by analysis. Repeat at the same rate in intervals of 10-14 days where required. Water rate: 200 l/ha.

Hops 1.5 l/ha when crop is 2.5 metres tall. Water rate: 500 l/ha.

Leeks (field grown) 1 l/ha 14 days after transplanting or where direct sown when the crop is 15 cm tall. Up to two repeat applications where necessary in intervals of 10-14 days. Water rate: 200 l/ha.

Maize 1 l/ha from 3 to 8 leaves. In case of severe deficiency repeat applications at the same rate can be made in intervals of 10-14 days. Water rate: 200 l/ha.

Onions (field grown) 1 l/ha when there is sufficient foliage to receive the spray. Water rate: 200 l/ha.

Potatoes 1 l/ha one week after 100% emergence and repeated as necessary at the same rate in intervals of 10-14 days in case of moderate to severe deficiency. Water rate: 200 l/ha.

Raspberries 0.5 l/ha at green bud. Water rate: 200 l/ha.

Strawberries (field grown) One application of 0.5 l/ha at green bud followed by two applications of 0.25 l/ha at white bud and post-harvest re-growth. Water rate: 200 to 500 l/ha.

Sugar beet 1 l/ha at 4-6 leaf stage. In case of moderate to severe deficiency repeat at the same rate in intervals of 10-14 days. Water rate: 200 l/ha.

Protected crops in Polytunnels 0.05 litres per 100 litres water maximum concentration. Water rate: 1,000 l/ha maximum. Refer to equivalent field grown recommendation for the timing advice. NB do not exceed a rate of 5 mls per 10 litres of water applied over 100 m2.



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Cereal BoostCereal Boost is a specially formulated Suspension Concentrate foliar application containing all of the vital minor nutrients for the crop in one easily applied package. The product is engineered with the most modern “wetting agents” and “stickers” to maximise the uptake and yield benefit.

Cereal Boost contains > Mg = magnesium in addition to the above points, is important for grain fill at the end of

the season that leads to yield and quality parameters such as bushel weight.> Mn = Manganese is involved in activating many different enzyme systems within the

plant. It is involved in photosynthesis and nitrate reduction pathways and also required for protein synthesis.

> N = nitrogen is the fundamental nutrient for plant growth. It is important for amino acid synthesis and therefore protein formation as well as co-enzymes and nucleic acid

formation. Nitrogen has a vital role in photosynthesis.> Zn = zinc primarily important for the formation of the key plant growth hormone auxin

and as such can affect the rate of growth of the crop. In deficient situations the plants will be stunted and so the applied NPK will not be used to full benefit.

> Cu = copper affects grain set in wheat and so in deficient situations can reduce yield significantly.

Contains:Magnesium (MgO) 347g/ltManganese (Mn) 130g/ltZinc (Zn) 80g/ltNitrogen (N) 63g/ltCopper (Cu) 50g/lt

Product benefitsSuspension concentrates (SCs)Cereal Boost is one of a range of Safacrop suspension concentrate (SCs) products that alloffer significant benefits over generic technologies such as soluble powders and solutions:> Higher nutrient loading – each litre of product contains much more nutrients than

solutions. This allows for fewer applications.> Liquid – whilst powders contain high nutrient content they are difficult to handle often requiring laborious dissolving that takes time pre-application. They are often dusty and

that is dangerous for the spray operator.> Easy to mix in the tank – powders and solutions often cannot easily be mixed with other products in the spray tank due to incompatibilities. SCs are normally very easy to mix

because they are much less reactive in the tank.> Rain fast – SCs stick to the leaf and are not washed off by rain allowing for greater efficacy and fewer applications.



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Soya BoostSoya Boost is a specially formulated foliar application of essential micronutrients designed to treat soya showing typical nutrient deficiencies. The product is engineered with the most modern “wetting agents” and “stickers” to maximise the uptake and yield benefit.

The product contains all the vital minor nutrients for the crop in one easily applied package.> Mg = magnesium is part of the chlorophyll molecule that uses sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into sugars, the fundamental process of plant life called photosynthesis.

It is involved both in nitrate and phosphate metabolism as well as protein synthesis and water uptake by the roots. Magnesium deficiency therefore will reduce the efficacy by which the plant absorbs all the macros as well as other nutrients and may have a significant negative effect on yield and quality.

> Mn = manganese is involved in the reduction of nitrates in the plant – the mechanism by which nitrogen is used to form other useful compounds such as proteins. It also plays a

role in photosynthesis.> Mo = molybdenum is part of the mechanism by which leguminous plants such as soya fix nitrogen from the air. It also helps to reduce the resulting nitrates to form proteins along

with Mn.> B = boron has many roles which include influence over the movement of sugars around the plant. One important process in any plant is the ‘leaking’ of sugars (exudation) from

the roots into the soil solution. This has two key effects, firstly that it sticks soil particles to the roots and secondly that it feeds the soil bacteria allowing them to flourish and help with nutrient absorption by the plant. Boron also promotes root and root hair growth and therefore increases the surface area in contact with the soil and nutrients further improving uptake.

> N = nitrogen which we all know is the most important nutrient of all for crops and is key for yield and quality. Soya can fix nitrogen from the air but additional sources of this vital nutrient are also needed. The amount in this product is only complimentary to other applications.

Contains:Magnesium (MgO) 133g/lt Manganese (Mn) 70g/ltBoron (B) 50g/ltNitrogen (N) 21g/ltMolybdenum (Mo) 4g/lt

Product benefitsSuspension concentrates (SCs)Soya Boost is one of a range of Safacrop suspension concentrate (SCs) products that all offersignificant benefits over generic technologies such as soluble powders and solutions:> Higher nutrient loading – each litre of product contains much more nutrients than






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Potato Boost

Potato Boost is a specially formulated liquid foliar application containing a high level of phosphate designed for application to potato crops. The product is engineered with the most modern “wetting agents” and “stickers” to maximise the uptake and yield benefit.

Potato Boost contains the range of vital nutrients for the crop in one easily applied package> P2O5 = phosphate is a macro nutrient needed in large quantities by the potato crop. The majority must be applied to the soil to be absorbed by the roots but good use of a foliar product such as Safagrow Potatoes is very important in boosting yield and quality. Foliar applied phosphate when sprayed around tuber initiation will stimulate the formation of

more tubers. This tends to lead to smaller potatoes which can be useful for some markets or for seed tubers. The same application during tuber bulking will lead to larger potatoes. Both timings will create more uniform sizing.

> K2O = potash is also a macro nutrient needed by potatoes in large quantities. Low levels will reduce growth, yield and quality.

> Mg = magnesium compliments phosphate in helping to generate dry matter during tuber bulking.

> Zn = zinc is required for the correct functioning of many enzyme systems within the plant, and is also important for the synthesis of nucleic acid. Zinc is used in the metabolism of the plant hormone auxin.

Contains:Phosphate (P₂O₅) 440g/lt Potassium (K₂O) 75g/lt Zinc (Zn) 46g/ltMagnesium (MgO) 67g/lt

Product benefitsThis soluble liquid formulation benefits from:> High nutrient loading – each litre of product contains much more nutrients than typical solutions. This allows for fewer applications.> Liquid – whilst powders contain high nutrient content they are difficult to handle often requiring laborious dissolving that takes time pre-application. They are often dusty and

that is dangerous for the spray operator.> Rain fast – product includes additives enhancing stick to the leaf and rainfastness

allowing for greater efficacy and fewer applications.



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Fruit Boost

Fruit Boost is a specially formulated Suspension Concentrate foliar application of essential micronutrients designed to provide the three nutrients key for good quality fruit development and yield. The product is engineered with the most modern “wetting agents” and “stickers” to maximise the uptake and yield benefit.

Fruit Boost contains > Ca = calcium is the most important nutrient for fruit post-harvest quality. It is found between cell walls and glues them together and so is vital for fruit structure and strength.

Fruit firmness is important pre and post harvest and dictates how resistant the fruit is to disease and the mechanical damage during harvest and transport. Calcium moves in the water inside the plant and cannot be redistributed easily which means that it must be applied throughout the growing period and foliar sprays directed directly at the fruit work best. Therefore Safagrow Fruit with its very high calcium content is a powerful tool in the fruit grower’s portfolio.

> B = boron, in addition to the above points boron is also found with calcium between cell walls and therefore has a similar role in maintaining fruit firmness. However, being a micronutrient it is required in much lower volumes and this is reflected in the analysis

of this product. Early in the season boron is also important for fruit set and so early applications around petal fall will help to ensure that a good number of fruit form on the crop.

> Zn = zinc, in addition to the above points zinc is also important to ensure strong, healthy buds at the start of the season on tree fruit for good vegetative growth and flowering.

Trees suffering from zinc deficiency will often have small leaves due to the role it has in growth hormone production.

Contains:Calcium (CaO) 560g/ltZinc (Zn) 31g/ltBoron (B) 3.5g/lt

Product benefitsSuspension concentrates (SCs)Fruit Boost is one of a range of Safacrop suspension concentrate (SCs) products that all offersignificant benefits over generic technologies such as soluble powders and solutions:> Higher nutrient loading – each litre of product contains much more nutrients than






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Background Reading

NPK Fertilisers

Plants need at least seventeen elements to grow. Three of these elements—carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen—are referred to as “building blocks.” Plants get these elements from air and water. The other fourteen elements, such as nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, are referred to as “nutrients.” Plants usually get nutrients from the soil. Deficiencies in any one or several of them can be seen on the plant. These deficiencies in nutrients can rectified by the application of fertilisers. Fertilisers are soil amendments applied to promote plant growth. Collectively, the main nutrients vital to plants by weight are called compound fertilisers which are N-P-K fertilisers with other elements intermixed.

Foliar Fertilisers are fertilisers that are applied to foliage and fruit to boost nutrient density in crops as well as to correct nutrient deficiencies. This makes them perfect for correcting nutrient deficiencies. Soil amendments may take several days to take affect and the nutrients may be tied up with other elements and made unavailable to the plant. Foliar nutrients are readily available to plants when applied by foliar feed.

Nitrogen’s Role

Of all the major plant nutrients, N is often the most important determinant of plant growth and crop yield. Nitrogen is a component of important structural, genetic and metabolic compounds in plant cells. It is a major component of chlorophyll, the compound by which plants use sunlight energy to produce sugars from water and carbon dioxide (i.e. photosynthesis). It is also a major component of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. Some proteins act as structural units in plant cells while others act as enzymes, making possible many of the biochemical reactions on which life is based. Nitrogen is a component of energy-transfer compounds, such as ATP (adenosine triphosphate) which allow cells to conserve and use the energy released in metabolism. Finally, nitrogen is a significant component of nucleic acids such as DNA, the genetic material that allows cells (and eventually whole plants) to grow and reproduce. Nitrogen plays the same roles (with the exception of photosynthesis) in animals, too.

Any stress that reduces plant activity will reduce nitrogen fixation. Factors like temperature and water may not be under the farmer control. But nutrition stress (especially phosphorus, potassium, zinc, iron, molybdenum and cobalt) can be corrected with fertilizers. When a nutritional stress is corrected, the legume responds directly to the nutrient and indirectly to the increased nitrogen nutrition resulting from enhanced nitrogen fixation. Poor nitrogen fixation in the field can be easily corrected by inoculation, fertilization, irrigation, foliar application or other management practicesPlants lacking N show stunted growth and yellowish leaves. Plant growth and crop yield usually increase when N is added, despite the presence of N in soils. This is because most of the N in soils is stored within the soil humus in forms that plants cannot access. Chemical fertilizers add N in forms that plants can use immediately or after a brief conversion.



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Potassium’s RolePotassium activates plant enzymes and keeps cell fluid movement in balance, regulates water loss through stomata (tiny pores) on the leaves, and it is necessary for root formation and food storage in the plant. It is essential for photosynthesis, activates enzymes to metabolize carbohydrates for the manufacture of amino acids and proteins, facilitates cell division and growth by helping to move starches and sugars between plant parts. Potassium adds to stalk and stem stiffness, increases disease resistance, increases drought tolerance, regulates opening and closing of stomates, increases the size and weight of grain and seed, improves firmness, texture, size and colour of fruit crops and increases the oil content of oil crops. Many vegetable and fruit crops are high in potassium, which is vital for animal and human nutrition.

Potassium-deficient plants exhibit chlorosis (loss of green colour) along the leaf margins or tips starting with the bottom leaves and progressing up the plant. In severe cases, the whole plant turns yellow, and the lower leaves fall off. Lack of potassium causes stunted plants with small branches and little vigour. Some crop specific deficiency symptoms associated with potassium:> Grain crops—such as corn, sorghum and small grains—have weak stalks, reduced grain

size and yield.> Cotton leaves turn reddish-brown, appear scorched, become bronze then black, and eventually fall off. Bolls are generally knotty, resulting in low quality fibre and poor yield.> Tomatoes exhibit uneven fruit ripening, poor texture and soft fruit.> The skin of stone fruits is distorted. The fruit is small and poor in quality. Stone fruits are generally more susceptible to potassium deficiencies. Deficiencies in vegetables can

appear as deformed, stunted or yellow leaves, weak stems and premature fruit drop.

Phosphorus’ Role

Phosphorus is required for cell growth and plant reproduction. It is crucial for flower and fruit formation. Even though phosphorus levels in plants are low compared with those of other macronutrients, they are essential to many plant processes. Three principal forms of phosphorus in plants are: in RNA and DNA molecules, in cell membranes, and in ATP molecules. The last form, ATP, is a molecule that stores the energy from photosynthesis and the breakdown of sugars. It activates coenzymes for amino acid production used in protein synthesis; it decomposes carbohydrates produced in photosynthesis; and it is involved in many other metabolic processes required for normal growth, such as photosynthesis, glycolysis, respiration, and fatty acid synthesis. Seed germination is enhanced and it promotes early growth, it stimulates blooming, enhances bud set, aids in seed formation, hastens maturity and provides winter hardiness to crops planted in colder climates. The meristem region of growing plants is high in phosphorus. It is very mobile and can therefore be transported to sites requiring a great deal of energy such as expanding shoots, leaves, and fruits.

Phosphorus deficient plants are characterized by stunted growth, dark green leaves with a leathery texture, and reddish purple leaf tips and margins. Bud set of some ornamental and fruit crops is dramatically reduced by low phosphorus. Phosphorus deficiency symptoms generally occur in soils with a low phosphorus content. Normal plant growth cannot be achieved without phosphorus.



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Calcium’s RoleWith rapid plant growth, the structural integrity of stems that hold flowers and fruit, as well as the quality of the fruit produced, is strongly coupled to calcium availability. Calcium is a critical part of the cell wall that produces strong structural rigidity by forming cross-links within the pectin polysaccharide matrix.

Depleted calcium in plants leads to a deterioration in cell membrane, loss of cell compounds and eventually death of cell and plant tissue . Calcium additionally plays a role in cell structure, in regulating cell and plant functions as a secondary messenger and in various plant functions from nutrient uptake, changes in cell status (of the plant) in reacting to the environmental and disease stresses. Heat stress in particular tends to elongate stem length while reducing leaf size in many crops. Calcium helps overcoming heat stress effects by improved stomatal function and other cell processes. Calcium’s role in the development of heat shock proteins that help plants tolerate stress to prolonged heat is also significant.

Calcium is also referred to as the plant’s first line of defense. Some organisms infect plants by penetrating cell tissue with enzymes known as pectinase. These enzymes dissolve pectins. A higher calcium content in plants, with higher concentration of pectins holding cells together will give plants a greater ability to withstand these enzymes. In some cases, the pectinase that the pathogen secretes is oxalic acid. This sequesters calcium from the leaf to form calcium oxalate. In such cases, the increase in calcium levels in leaf tissue or calcium in foliar applications will decrease the pathogen’s ability to invade the leaf. Fungal pathogenic infection is also reduced with increased calcium uptake by plants.

Calcium too, plays a major role in the quality of many crops. Increasing fruit calcium promotes longer storage life and resists a range of physiological break down.

The primary roles of calcium:> As a soil amendment, calcium helps to maintain chemical balance in the soil, reduces soil

salinity, and improves water penetration.> Calcium plays a critical metabolic role in carbohydrate removal.> Calcium neutralizes cell acids.

The role of calcium in plants must not be overlooked.

Calcium Deficiency Calcium deficiency symptoms in crops are often called physiological disorders.

Symptoms of calcium deficiency:> Necrosis at the tips and margins of young leaves,> Bulb and fruit abnormalities,> Deformation of affected leaves,> Highly branched, short, brown root systems,> Severe, stunted growth, and> General chlorosis.

It must be remembered that these problems are caused by an inadequate supply of calcium to the affected tissues. These deficiencies can occur even when the soil appears to have an adequate presence of calcium.

Safacrop/Safagrow ProductsCal+Calcium 400



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Boron’s RoleThe functions of boron relate to cell wall strength and development, cell division, fruit and seed development, sugar transport, and hormone development. Boron is an enzyme activator and is involved in the production of starch required for production of cellulose. The major function of boron is in sugar transport to meristem regions of roots and tops. It is needed in protein synthesis, and increases flower set, crop yield and quality. This is evidenced by the fact that transport of sugars is retarded in boron-deficient plants, resulting in reduced growth. In combination with adequate phosphorus, boron increases pollination, fruit set and seed development.

Photosynthesis transforms sunlight energy into plant energy compounds such as sugars. For this process to continue in plants, the sugars must be moved away from the site of their development, and stored or used to make other compounds. Boron increases the rate of transport of sugars (which are produced by photosynthesis in mature plant leaves) to actively growing regions and also in developing fruits.

Boron is essential for providing sugars which are needed for root growth in all plants and also for normal development of root nodules in legumes such as soybeans and peanuts. Boron ensures healthy plant storage tissues and conductive tissues for the transport of water, nutrients, and organic compounds to the actively growing portions in plants. Boron’ requirement is much higher for reproductive growth than for vegetative growth in most plant species. Boron increases flower production and retention, pollen tube elongation and germination, and seed and fruit development

Boron Deficiency The first visible symptom of boron deficiency is death of the growing tips. This disorder is generally followed by growth of lateral shoots, the tips of which may also be deformed or die. The leaves of boron-deficient plants are usually thick, have a coppery texture, and become curled and brittle. Other symptoms include stunted roots, failure to set flowers, or flower abortion. Boron deficiency causes internal tissues to disintegrate, causing abnormalities such as distorted, cracked, or hollow stems.

Some crops exhibit specific symptoms. Beets, turnips, and potatoes exhibit poor tuber development. Apples have cork spot. Grapes form mixed clusters of small and large fruit, known as “hen and chicks.” Cotton leaves become thick and leathery with abnormally long spongy petioles. The shorter leaf petioles are often twisted and have small ruptures along the stem. The fruit and leaves exude a sticky substance. Flower buds become chlorotic with flared bracts. The squares and bowls dry up and often abort. Bolls that survive generally are deformed, are smaller in size, and fail to open fully. The application of boron on crops that are known to respond to it such as apple, cotton, peanut and several vegetable and flower crops will remedy boron deficiency.

Safacrop/Safagrow productsBoron +



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Zinc’s RoleMost of the Zinc in soils exists in unavailable forms. Soil pH influences the availability of zinc more than any other factor, with low zinc solubility as the pH increases. Therefore zinc deficiency is usually limited to soils with a pH above 6.5. The solubility of zinc is highly dependent upon soil pH. High levels of soil phosphorus are also commonly responsible for zinc deficiency.

Zinc functions as an enzyme activator in carbohydrate metabolism and protein formation. Zinc is needed by plants for growth hormone production and is particularly important for internode elongation. Zinc has intermediate mobility in the plant and symptoms will initially show up in middle leaves. Crops with high zinc requirements include corn, onion and spinach. Those with medium requirements are beans, beet, cucumber, lettuce, potato, radish, soyabean, tobacco and tomato.

Zinc is one of the essential micronutrients required for optimum crop growth. Movement of zinc is highly dependent upon the soil moisture, and this may be the reason why, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas, zinc deficiency is more frequently seen.

Metabolic Roles of Zinc Zinc plays an important role in many biochemical reactions within the plants. Plants such as maize , sorghum and sugarcane shows reduced photosynthetic carbon metabolism due to zinc deficiency. Zinc is also a part of several other enzymes which prevents oxidative stress in plant cells. Following are the various other roles of zinc in plants: > Production of auxin, an essential growth hormone > Regulates starch formation and proper root development > Formation of chlorophyll and carbohydrates > Enable plants to withstand lower air temperatures > Helps in the biosynthesis of cytochrome; and maintains plasma membrane integrity, and synthesis of leaf cuticle.

While zinc is essential for every plant, these crops have been found to be especially responsive: corn, rice, wheat, sweet corn, cotton, citrus, most orchard crops and sorghum.

Zinc Deficiency The deficiency symptoms of zinc are:> Dusty brown spots of upper leaves of stunted plants > Uneven plant growth and patches of poorly established plants in the field > Decreased tillering, spike or spikelet sterility and interveinal chlorosis on l eaves > Dicots shows drastic decrease in leaf size, loss of lustre and shoots die off. > Premature leaf fall, chiefly in apples.

Deficiency symptoms usually appear first on the relatively young leaves early in the growing season. In broad leaf plants, zinc deficiency results in shortening internodes (rosetting) and a decrease in leaf size (little leaf ). Zn deficient leaves display interveinal chlorosis, especially midway between the margin and midrib, producing a striping effect; some mottling may also occur. Zn deficient plants generally exhibit severe stunting. Flowering and seed set is also poor in affected plants.

Safacrop/Safagrow productsZinc 700



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In addition to the suspension fertilisers and soluble liquid fertilisers offered by Safacrop, the following products as highly concentrated foliar micronutrients are available from Safagrow Limited. For further details see www.Safagrow.com.

All products are engineered to enhance uptake of the nutrient with specially formulated wetters and stickers.

Zinc 700Suspension Concentrate formulation of Zinc Oxide (700g/L)

Magnesium 300Suspension Concentrate formulation of Magnesium Hydroxide (300g/L)

Manganese 500Suspension Concentrate formulation of Manganese Carbonate (300g/L)

Calcium 400Suspension Concentrate formulation of Calcium Carbonate (400g/L)

Cereal BoostSuspension Concentrate formulation of Magnesium (MgO) 347g/LManganese 130g/LZinc 80g/LNitrogen 63g/LCopper 50g/L

Soya BoostSuspension Concentrate formulation of Magnesium 130g/L MgOManganese 70g/LBoron 50g/LMolybdenum 4g/LNitrogen 21g/L

Potato BoostSL formulation of Phosphorus 440g/L P2O5Potassium 75g/L K2OMagnesium 67g/L MgOZinc 46g/L

Fruit BoostSuspension Concentrate formulation ofCalcium (CaO) 560g/LZinc 31g/LBoron 3.5g/L

SafaGrow



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Weights and MeasuresLength

1 millimetre 1000 micrometres 0.0394 inch

1 centimetre 10 millimetres 0.3937 inch

1 metre 100 centimetres 1.0936 yards

1 kilometre 1000 metres 0.6214 mile

1 inch 2.54 centimetres

1 foot 12 inches 30.48 centimetres

1 yard 36 inches 0.9144 metre

1 mile 1760 yards 1.6093 kilometres

Area

1 square metre 10,000 square centimetres 1.196 square yards

1 hectare 10,000 square metres 2.4711 acres

1 square kilometre 100 hectares 0.3861 square mile

1 square foot 144 square inches 0.0929 square metre

1 square yard 9 square feet 0.8361 square metre

1 acre 4840 square yards 4046.9 square metres

Capacity

1 cubic decimetre 1000 cubic centimetres 0.0353 cubic foot

1 cubic metre 1000 cubic decimetres 1.3080 cubic yards

1 litre 1 cubic decimetre 0.22 gallon

1 cubic yard 27 cubic feet 0.7646 cubic metre

1 pint 4 gills 0.5683 litre

1 gallon 8 pints 4.5461 litres

Weight

1 gram 1000 milligrams 0.0353 ounce

1 kilogram 1000 grams 2.2046 pounds

1 tonne 1000 kilograms 0.9842 ton

1 ounce 437.5 grains 28.35 grams

1 pound 16 ounces 0.4536 kilogram

1 stone 14 pounds 6.35 kilograms

1 ton 2240 pounds 1.016 tonnes

USA Dry Measure Equivalents

1 pint 0.9689 UK pint 0.5506 litre

1 bushel 0.9689 UK bushel 35.238 litres

USA Liquid Measure Equivalents

1 pint (16 fl oz) 0.8327 pint 0.4732 litre

1 gallon 0.8327 gallon 3.7853 litres

Temperature Conversion

C 5/9 (F–32) F 9/5 (C+32) C= Celsius F = Fahrenheit

0ºFahrenheit

–18ºCelsius –10 0 10 20 30 40

10 22 32 40 50 60 70 80 90 100



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Conversion Formulae

To Convert Multiply by

Inches to Centimetres 2.540

Centimetres to Inches 0.39370

Feet to Metres 0.3048

Metres to Feet 3.2808

Yards to Metres 0.9144

Metres to Yards 1.09361

Miles to Kilometres 1.60934

Kilometres to Miles 0.621371

Square Inches to Square Centimetres 6.4516

Square Centimetres to Square Inches 0.155499

Square Metres to Square Feet 10.7638

Square Feet to Square Metres 0.092903

Square Yards to Square Metres 0.83612

Square Metres to Square Yards 1.19599

Square Miles to Square Kilometres 2.5899

Square Kilometres to Square Miles 0.386103

Acres to Hectares 0.40468

Hectares to Acres 2.47105

Cubic Inches to Cubic Centimetres 16.3870

Cubic Centimetres to Cubic Inches 0.06102

Cubic Feet to Cubic Metres 0.02831

Cubic Metres to Cubic Feet 35.3147

Cubic Yards to Cubic Metres 0.7646

Cubic Metres to Cubic Yards 1.3079

Cubic Inches to Litres 0.01638

Litres to Cubic Inches 61.027

Gallons to Litres 4.545

Litres to Gallons 0.22

Grains to Grams 0.0647

Grams to Grains 1143

Ounces to Grams 28.3495

Grams to Ounces 0.03528

Pounds to Grams 453.592

Grams to Pounds 0.00220

Pounds to Kilograms 0.4536

Kilograms to Pounds 2.2046

Tons to Kilograms 1016.05

Kilograms to Tons 0.0009842

Safacrop® Limited is a subsidiary of Safapac Holdings® Limited.



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