Lehtväetist

Lehtväetist (foliar fertilizer) is a plant nutrition product applied directly to leaves to supply nutrients through foliar uptake. It is used to correct nutrient deficiencies and to supplement soil-based fertilization, particularly for micronutrients or when rapid nutrient responses are needed.

Formulations typically contain macronutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), together with micronutrients including iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), boron (B), copper (Cu), and magnesium (Mg). Many products use chelated micronutrients to improve stability and uptake.

Uptake occurs through the leaf cuticle and stomata. Foliar absorption can be rapid, providing a quick nutrient boost, but the total amount available from foliar feeds is limited compared with soil application. Effectiveness depends on crop, growth stage, leaf surface condition, and weather.

Application guidelines typically call for spraying to achieve thorough coverage of both sides of the leaves, with dilution according to the product label. Best results are achieved in cooler, non-stressful conditions (early morning or late afternoon); avoid active sun, drought, or rainfall during spraying to minimize leaf burn.

Advantages include rapid correction of deficiencies, reduced nutrient leaching, and the ability to supplement soil fertility without changing soil chemistry. Limitations include a relatively small nutrient supply, risk of leaf burn at high concentrations, and the need to use foliar feeds in combination with soil fertilization according to a plan.

Lehtväetist is widely used in horticulture and field crops, with adoption varying by region and crop. Always follow product labels and regulatory guidelines, and consider local agronomic advice to determine when foliar feeding is appropriate and economically justified.