Fertiratie

Fertiratie, also known as fertigation, is the practice of delivering fertilizers dissolved in irrigation water to crops through an irrigation system. By combining fertilization with irrigation, nutrients can be supplied directly to the root zone in doses that align with plant water needs, improving nutrient use efficiency and flexibility.

The system typically consists of a fertilizer reservoir, a metering or injection device (such as a venturi injector or a positive-displacement pump), and an irrigation network (drip, micro-sprinklers, or sprinklers). Fertilizers are chosen to be water-soluble and compatible with the irrigation chemistry. Dosing can be continuous, proportional to water flow, or scheduled, allowing precise control of nutrient delivery according to crop stage and soil conditions.

Benefits of fertiration include higher nutrient-use efficiency, reduced nutrient losses through leaching and volatilization, better alignment of nutrient supply with plant demand, and water conservation. It is widely used in greenhouse production, nurseries, orchards, vineyards, and field crops, often as part of precision agriculture programs.

Risks and limitations involve the need for careful management of water quality, fertilizer compatibility, and irrigation timing. Incompatible chemicals, high salt concentrations, or improper dosing can cause root damage, soil salinity buildup, or equipment clogging. Regular monitoring of solution EC and pH, calibration of injection equipment, and consideration of soil and crop tolerance are essential to minimize problems.

Overall, fertiratie offers a flexible approach to nutrient management, enabling efficient fertilizer use and integration with modern irrigation practices, while requiring careful planning and monitoring to avoid adverse effects.