levéltrágyázás

Levéltrágyázás, also known as foliar fertilization, is a method of plant nutrition where fertilizers are applied directly to the leaves of a plant. This technique allows plants to absorb nutrients through their foliage, bypassing the root system. It is often used as a supplement to traditional soil-based fertilization or in situations where nutrient uptake through the roots is limited.

The primary advantage of levéltrágyázás is its speed of action. Nutrients applied to the leaves can be absorbed and utilized by the plant much faster than those absorbed by the roots. This makes it particularly useful for correcting nutrient deficiencies quickly or for providing a rapid boost during critical growth stages, such as flowering or fruit set. It can also be beneficial in soils with unfavorable pH, poor drainage, or low nutrient availability.

Commonly applied nutrients include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients such as iron, zinc, manganese, and copper. The effectiveness of levéltrágyázás depends on several factors, including the type of nutrient, the formulation of the fertilizer, the plant species, the environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, light), and the physiological status of the plant. The leaf surface must be receptive to absorption, and the stomata are the primary entry points for many nutrients.

While efficient for rapid nutrient delivery, levéltrágyázás is generally not a substitute for basal fertilization, which provides the bulk of a plant's nutritional needs. Excessive application can lead to leaf burn or other forms of phytotoxicity. Therefore, careful adherence to recommended application rates and timing is crucial for successful levéltrágyázás.