Fertigation Scheduling

Frequency depends on crop, stage, and water availability. Vegetable crops typically receive daily or every-2-day fertigations during peak growth. Fruit crops may be fertigated less frequently (2–3 times per week) or seasonally. The rule of thumb: nutrient concentration in the irrigation water should be lower (<5–10 ppm N for vegetables) and applied more frequently than traditional broadcast methods, which use 50–100+ ppm applied once.

Begin with major nutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg). Secondary and micronutrients (S, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, Mo) are often included in 'complete' or 'balanced' fertigation formulations. Consult crop-specific recommendations; some nutrients (e.g., Fe in high-pH soil) may need special forms or injection methods to prevent precipitation.

Monitor plant tissue nutrient status via foliar or petiole samples at key growth stages. Compare to sufficiency ranges for your crop. Assess yield, fruit size, color, and shelf life. If fruit is consistently undersized or off-color, adjust nutrient injection rates upward; if excessive vegetative growth or nutrient burn symptoms appear, reduce rates.

Yes, in recirculating systems (especially hydroponics), fertigation becomes nutrient solution management. In open systems, recycling rainfall or drainage water requires careful monitoring for pathogen and residue buildup. Filtration and periodic testing are essential. Consult local regulations; some regions restrict nutrient discharge to groundwater.