Foliar fertilization: a key strategy for enhancing growth and bio productivity in flower crops

G Jeevaa; K R Rajadurai; K M Sellamuthu; A Beaulah; K Venkatesan; B Udithyan

doi:10.14719/pst.7531

Authors

Jeevaa G Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 625 604, Tamil Nadu, India https://orcid.org/0009-0003-5835-9972
Rajadurai K R Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 625 604, Tamil Nadu, India https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8772-3444
Sellamuthu K M Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2192-8030
Beaulah A Department of Post Harvest Technology, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Theni 625 604, Tamil Nadu, India https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4877-9247
Venkatesan K Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 625 604, Tamil Nadu, India https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7698-0250
Udithyan B Department of Horticulture, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Theni 625 604, Tamil Nadu, India https://orcid.org/0009-0003-3424-3529

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.7531

Keywords:

efficient, flower yield, macronutrient, micronutrients, nanofertilizer, nutrient uptake

Abstract

The foliar application of nutrients in flower crops is gaining popularity as an efficient agronomic practice that involves spraying nutrient solutions directly onto plant leaves for quick absorption of nutrients. This technique is especially for flower crops, where the quality and aesthetics of blooms are critical. The issues like nutrient leaching and soil fixation, can be bypassed by foliar fertilization ensures that essential nutrients are quickly available to plants, leading to rapid growth responses. It is also effective in addressing micronutrient deficiencies, as these elements are often immobilized in the soil. Foliar sprays can supply both macro and micro nutrients, though careful formulation and application frequency are necessary to avoid phytotoxicity. Research indicates that floral excellence, colour intensity and shelf life are improved through foliar application. Moreover, it can be used to deliver growth regulators and plant protectants, enhancing crop performance and resilience against pest and diseases. Despite its benefits, the successful adoption of foliar fertilization requires attention to technical aspects such as nutrient formulation, concentration, timing and environmental conditions to optimize nutrient uptake and improve physiological responses. Emerging trends such as use of Nano fertilizer, offer promising results in enhancing nutrient delivery, improving flower quality and yield. This review synthesizes recent research findings to provide a comprehensive guide on effective foliar practices that can boost flower production, productivity and sustainability.

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